Six Honored as ‘Pillars of Nursing’
Nursing Award Recognizes Excellence in Patient Care and Leadership
Six nurses from Albany Medical Center were recognized for outstanding patient care, leadership, and dedication with Pillars of Nursing Excellence Awards at a ceremony held May 12 as part of Nurses Week. Considered the hospital’s highest honor for nursing, the awards recognize nurses who embody Albany Med’s vision of being the first choice in patient experience, quality, and clinical excellence through compassionate care, leadership, mentorship, and service.
Selected by the hospital’s Nurse Recognition Committee from more than 60 nominations by colleagues, this year’s honorees represent a combined 159 years of service to Albany Medical Center.
2026 Pillars of Nursing Honorees
- Mikaela Estey, RN, Case Management & Utilization Review
- Rachael Gardner, APRN, FNP, Gastroenterology
- Robin Gray, NP, Critical Care & Cardiac Services
- Stephen Jones, NP, Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine
- Adiza Omar, ADN, CMSRN, General Medicine
- Colleen Savage, NP, Pediatric Trauma Program
During the ceremony, nominations were read before more than 150 attendees, who heard the lasting impact the honorees have on patients, families, and fellow staff members.
In a nomination for Mikaela Estey, RN, a colleague described her as “a constant advocate for patients and families who approaches every situation with compassion, professionalism, and grace.”
After accepting the award, Estey reflected on the importance of teamwork and supporting patients during difficult moments.
“It’s truly an honor to work alongside so many incredible nurses and caregivers every day,” Estey said. “This recognition means so much because it comes from the people I work with and learn from every day.”
A nomination for Robin Gray, NP, praised her commitment to patients and colleagues alike, noting that she “consistently goes above and beyond to ensure patients receive exceptional care while also serving as a trusted mentor and resource for her team.”
Gray said receiving the award was both humbling and meaningful.
“Nursing is about making connections, supporting one another, and always doing what’s best for our patients,” Gray said. “I’m grateful to be part of a team that cares so deeply about the work we do.”
Chief Nursing Officer Megan Keenan congratulated the honorees and thanked them for the example they set throughout the organization.
“These nurses represent the very best of our profession,” Keenan said. “They lead with compassion, advocate for their patients, support their colleagues, and continually raise the standard of care throughout our organization.”
Hospital President and CEO Jason Mouzakes, MD, also recognized the recipients during the ceremony, noting the lasting impact they have made over their collective years of service.
“Our nurses are at the heart of everything we do,” Dr. Mouzakes said. “The individuals honored today exemplify excellence in nursing through their clinical expertise, commitment to patients, and dedication to teamwork and mentorship. We are grateful for all they do for our patients, families, and community.”
The Pillars of Nursing Excellence Awards ceremony was one of several events held throughout Nurses Week to celebrate the more than 4,000 nursing professionals across the Albany Med Health System.
