Marlene Crouse, vice president of care management at WellSpan, is one of 17 nurses honored this year with the prestigious Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania. Her recognition is in the Nursing Administration - Senior Level/Executive Award category. This honor is a testament to Marlene's exceptional leadership and dedication spanning her 21 years at WellSpan, delivering compassionate, personalized care.

Marlene's career with WellSpan began at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital as a nurse extern while she was still a student at HACC. She progressed through various roles, including nursing assistant, professional nurse on the medical-surgical unit, and later, leadership positions such as house supervisor and director of nursing. Her contributions were instrumental in establishing the outpatient services unit at the hospital. Throughout her career, WellSpan has supported Marlene's educational pursuits, enabling her to earn her BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. Her board certifications as a nurse executive and in care management administration further underscore her expertise.

Marlene cherishes the experiences of supporting team members and caring for patients and families during their most joyful and challenging moments. Her inspiration to pursue a nursing career stemmed from her mother, a nurse whose compassion and clinical skill made a lasting impression on her.

"I chose nursing because I've always been drawn to caring for others and making a positive difference in people's lives," she explained. "Throughout my journey at WellSpan, some of the moments I hold most dear are those that reflect the heart of nursing—connection, teamwork, and compassion in action."

The Nightingale Award for Nursing Administration - Senior Level/Executive recognizes Marlene's visionary leadership and innovative spirit.

“This is a tribute to every mentor, colleague, and nurse who has walked alongside me throughout my journey," she added. "I'm grateful to WellSpan, who fosters growth, innovation, and excellence in nursing. Their support makes achievements like this possible."

Marlene's achievement is a great example of the impact that dedicated nursing leaders can have on health care. Her 21-year journey with WellSpan is marked by a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and nurturing a culture of compassion and excellence among her colleagues. As Marlene continues to lead with heart and purpose, her story serves as an inspiration to nurses and health care professionals alike, highlighting the transformative power of dedicated, compassionate care.

The Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania is a philanthropic organization whose purpose is to create, cultivate and support environments where professional nursing achievements are valued. Nightingale’s volunteer board and committees utilize gifts, donations, and annual gala proceeds to recognize excellence in a wide variety of nursing career paths and financially contributes to the continuing nursing education at all levels in the Commonwealth.

For more information on the Nightingale Awards of Pennsylvania, visit www.NightingaleAwards.org.