When Audrey Vaughn first began her nursing career in Mississippi, she never imagined it would one day lead her to precepting the next generation of advanced practice providers (APPs) in Ohio. But as she reflects on her path, from registered nurse to nurse practitioner and now mentor, she says it all comes down to a […]
Vascular Access Nurse Denaye Beckler receives 2025 AVA Impact Award
Akron Children’s Vascular Access Nurse Denaye Beckler, MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC, CEN, VA-BC, received the 2025 Impact Award from the Association for Vascular Access (AVA). This prestigious, international award honors AVA members who have made significant contributions to the specialty practice of vascular access at a local level. “I feel so honored to receive this award,” […]
Akron Children’s tiniest Swifties celebrate their NICU era
The countdown to Taylor Swift’s new album release, “The Life of a Showgirl,” has fans around the world buzzing. Now, some of Akron Children’s tiniest patients are joining the celebration in their own adorable way. From sparkling dresses to football jerseys, the babies in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) became “Tiny Swifties” for a […]
Leah Rawdon begins new leadership role focused on APPs
The Office of Advanced Practice is thrilled to welcome Leah Rawdon, DNP, APRN-CPNP, as she steps into a new leadership role focused on elevating educational initiatives and driving the growth, retention and clinical excellence of our Advanced Practice Providers (APPs). According to Jen Michel, director of the Advanced Practice Center, Leah’s role will oversee APP […]
Kimberly Firestone receives Ohio Society for Respiratory Care’s Neonatal/Pediatric Practitioner of the Year award
Congratulations to Kimberly Firestone, MSc, RRT, FAARC, FNAP, director of respiratory care and clinical outreach services at Akron Children’s, for receiving Ohio Society for Respiratory Care’s Neonatal/Pediatric Practitioner of the Year award. This annual award is presented at the statewide meeting to a practitioner who has exemplified leadership, mentorship, clinical expertise, team building and professionalism […]
Akron Children’s nurse cares for Honduran kids while on a medical mission trip
Maria English, an Akron Children’s Gastroenterology nurse, has been caring for kids for a decade. She recently put her nursing skills to use in the Central American country of Honduras, taking a medical mission trip made possible in part to the Akron Children’s Nursing Career Path. Maria feels the call Maria and her family attend […]
