Jamestown Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce that Bonnie Bowen, RN, as the recipient of the 2025 Nora Melvold Paulson Excellence in Nursing Award. This prestigious award recognizes a JRMC nurse who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing education, clinical practice and leadership.
In 2024, Bowen, a nurse in JRMC’s surgery department, set a personal and professional goal to earn her Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) certification, one of the most challenging nursing certifications in the surgical field. After hours of intense studying, Bowen passed on her first try — making her the first nurse in JRMC’s surgical services department to achieve the distinction.
“In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices, her quiet grace and humanity shine the brightest,” said JRMC surgery manager Rhea Miller. “This award is not just a recognition of her achievements, but a testament to the strength found in modesty and the power of leading by example.”
Bowen’s success has already brought positive change to JRMC’s Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and Surgery Center — using her newfound knowledge to update practices, improve workflows and elevate JRMC’s standard of care. She has also inspired other nurses to begin studying for the certification.
Her mentorship skills make her the “go-to” for students, new hires and seasoned staff. She is cited as a natural educator who is generous with her time. She also consistently seeks ways to stay current with standards and practices to ensure the surgery department delivers the best care possible for patients. Bowen’s dedication, positivity and pursuit of excellence all contributed to her earning the title of Nora Paulson recipient.
“I am truly humbled and grateful to receive this award,” said Bowen. “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to JRMC and my amazing coworkers for their support and collaboration.”
NORA PAULSON HISTORY
The Nora Paulson Award recipient is voted upon by their peers. The award provides an annual grant to a JRMC nurse who consistently embodies a commitment to excellence in nursing education and clinical care.
Award recipients can use the grant to their discretion, with many using it for education and training.
Brian and Nancy Spector established the Nora Paulson Award in 2011 through the JRMC Foundation. The award honors the memory of Nora Melvold Paulson, a nurse who worked at JRMC for over 30 years and was known for providing compassionate care and mentorship to her fellow nurses. The recipient of the Nora Paulson Award is selected annually by a vote of JRMC nurses and nursing leadership.