Nashville Celebrates National Nurses Week with Landmarks Lit Red and

Source: Google Street View

The Metro Public Health Department took the opportunity to mark National Nurses Week by celebrating the steadfast commitment of nurses within their organization. Aligning with the American Nurses Association's theme, "The Power of Nurses," Metro Public Health Department highlighted the critical roles nurses play across a spectrum of healthcare settings. The recognition week, observed from May 6 to May 12, centers on acknowledging nurse's unwavering dedication to the well-being of their communities, according to Nashville Government.

Dr. Laura Varnier, the Director of Nursing at Metro Public Health Department, gave remarks on the occasion, saying, "Nurses serve so many roles here at MPHD, caring for people young and old in variety of ways," as reported by the Nashville Government's official website. In a city-wide tribute to these healthcare professionals, several Nashville landmarks, including the Parthenon and the Nashville Electric Service headquarters, glowed red in their honor.

The sharing of personal narratives provided a humanizing touch to the celebration. Preventive Health Nurse Jarrah Paschall, conveying her journey to nursing and the impact she hoped to make, told the Nashville Government's news page, "I got into nursing as a second career, looking to make a difference in the lives of those around me." Her efforts were recognized as she became one of the first two nurses at Metro Public Health Department to receive the prestigious DAISY Award.

Similarly celebrated was Amy Powell, a School Health Nurse at Martin Luther King Jr. Academic Magnet High School. Overwhelmed with gratitude for receiving the DAISY Award, Powell shared, "It was such a surprise and honor to receive this award," according to the Nashville Government announcement. She stressed her commitment to the health and potential of students within the Metro Nashville Public School system.

The department employs over 200 nurses who contribute to more than 50 programs and operations across various sites, proving the diversity and scope of the profession's influence. Those aspiring to join the ranks of these everyday heroes can explore career opportunities by visiting the Metro Government Health Care Jobs section on the Metro Nashville Public School system's website, as per the Nashville Government.