HopeWest Nurse Honored as Nightingale Luminary for Western Colorado

HopeWest is proud to announce that Sandie Fritzlan, Shayna Currington, and Leticia Paz Lopez were among forty-two registered nurses nominated for the Nightingale Luminary award, a prestigious recognition awarded by Nightingale Western Colorado. The annual Award Banquet, held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, celebrated the exceptional contributions of nurses across the region, with nearly 200 attendees coming together to honor their dedication and service.

Paz Lopez was one of twelve nominees awarded the regional Nightingale Luminary award, celebrated for her commitment to excellence in nursing, compassion, and proficiency. Known for her ability to foster trust and rapport with Spanish-speaking patients, Lopez provides care that respects each patient’s preferences and values.

Cassie Mitchell, HopeWest President & CEO, expressed her pride and congratulations, stating, “Leticia’s recognition as a Nightingale Luminary is a testament to her extraordinary compassion, skill, and dedication to her patients and their families. We are incredibly proud of all three nominees and are grateful for the light they bring to HopeWest and the community we serve.”

The Nightingale Awards, established in 1985, honor Colorado nurses who embody the philosophy and practice of Florence Nightingale, highlighting those who demonstrate excellence in several areas of nursing, including community nursing, acute care clinical practice, long term care, nursing administration and nursing education. The awards are administered by the Colorado Nurses Foundation, with regional nominations leading to the selection of Luminaries based on their significant contributions to the nursing field.

Lopez will be further recognized at the State Nightingale Awards Ceremony in Denver on May 18, 2024, where her achievements will be celebrated alongside her peers from across Colorado.