The CCNW Nurse Workforce Development Award. Presented to Dr. Maria Krol

This award acknowledges the work done over the past year of a nurse educator in Academia or Practice who has amplified the critical importance of the CCNW mission which is to foster collaborations to ensure a highly educated, diverse, and sustainable nursing workforce to support the healthcare needs of Connecticut residents.
 
Selection Criteria: A nursing education professional who has:

• Demonstrated commitment to the mission of CCNW and support of the CCNW staff
• Displays innovative leadership characteristics which have made a positive impact on the nursing workforce development in Connecticut
• Acts as a role model and/or mentor to Connecticut’s future nursing and healthcare leaders
• Inspires and engages others to become active participants in CCNW programs and services

Dr. Krol was unable to attend the Summit as she was in Chile with her nursing students.  Dr. Krol was nominated by her colleague at Southern Connecticut State University,  Michele Vancour, who accepted the award on her behalf.

The CCNW Nurse Workforce Development Award. Presented to Dr. Maria Krol

​​Dr. Krol is Chair and Associate Professor of Southern CT State University’s School of Nursing.  Her innovative leadership resulted in many positive outcomes for CT’s nursing workforce. Her recent initiatives include:  implementing a new BSN pathway for students, A second cohort of Accelerated/second Degree BSN students, and a Summer Nursing Symposia for high school students.  The latter initiative will create a pipeline into healthcare careers and provide CNA training leading to state certification.  These initiatives offer diversity-enhancing opportunities via a student mentorship program, and moreover minimize barriers to progression to post-secondary education. Her efforts are making a difference for all.