Submitted Photo Pictured is the Kozlowski/Beehler family. Laura Beehler was presented with the Carol A. Kozlowski Nurse of Distinction Award. Pictured in front, from left, are Sandra Tapasto, Elizabeth Kozlowski and Brenda Beehler. In the middle row are Davis Beehler, Gerald Kozlowski, Laura Beehler, Lisa Kozlowski, Beth Kozlowski, Jessica Beehler and James Beehler. In back are Allison Kozlowski and Larry Klajbor.

In memory of the late Carol Kozlowski, former vice president of Nursing at Brooks, nursing leadership established the Carol A. Kozlowski Nurse of Distinction Award to be presented annually to a registered nurse who exemplifies Carol’s dedication to quality nursing.

More specifically, Brooks nursing leadership encouraged peer nominations of nurses who: demonstrate significant achievement in the nursing field; exhibit nursing leadership qualities; act as role model and inspiration for other nurses to strive for excellence; mentor others in their professional development; and foster a positive image of the nursing profession.

Those who were fortunate to work with Kozlowski know these are big shoes to fill.

As part of National Nurses Week celebrations on May 10, a ceremony was held at Brooks to recognize one employee who merits this honor. The registered nurse selected so closely exemplifies the personal and professional attributes modeled by Kozlowski, the choice was simple.

Coincidentally, the award’s first recipient is Kozlowski’s own daughter, Laura Beehler, RN, 2A charge nurse.

Beehler is known among her peers as a leader who readily provides wisdom and demonstrates experienced professionalism with enthusiasm and energy. Her peers say she is calm under pressure and shows remarkable patience while teaching newer nursing staff. She is admired as she treats everyone she encounters with respect and kindness.

Without question, Beehler’s personal and professional attributes parallel those surely taught by her mother. For this, we thank you, Carol. Your legacy has been memorialized indeed.