Katelyn Spears honored as the 2026 third quarter OGH Nightingale Award

Katelyn Spears honored as the 2026 third quarter OGH Nightingale Award

OLEAN, NY - Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, is proud to recognize Katelyn Spears, BSN, RN, as the recipient of the 2026 Third Quarter Nightingale Award, an honor that recognizes nurses who exemplify excellence in patient care, compassion, leadership and professionalism.

"Katelyn is an exceptional nurse whose dedication, compassion and commitment to her patients do not go unnoticed. Having her back on the floor has been like a breath of fresh air. She genuinely cares about the well-being of her patients and takes pride in ensuring the unit runs smoothly and effectively. Katelyn consistently advocates for her patients and is always willing to step in and help whenever she is needed," said her nomination. "She never hesitates to go above and beyond, even when something may not technically be her responsibility. While others may say, "That's not my job," Katelyn simply sees what needs to be done and gets to work. Her actions demonstrate what it truly means to be a team player and a dedicated nurse."

Her nomination continued, "Katelyn is a true role model for everyone on the floor. Her compassion, strong work ethic and commitment to providing excellent patient care inspire those around her. I would be honored to become the kind of nurse Katelyn is, and I feel fortunate to work alongside someone who consistently makes our unit a better place for both patients and staff."

For Spears, becoming a nurse was something she chose on a whim.

"At first, I wasn't completely sure what I wanted to do or where I wanted my career to take me. I decided to give nursing a chance," said Spears. "And what started as a spontaneous decision eventually became one of the best decisions I have made!"

Spears earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Gannon University in Erie, PA. Currently, she works at Olean General Hospital in the med-surg has been with the organization since 2022.

"What I enjoy most about being a nurse is being able to critically think and use my knowledge to provide the best possible care for my patients. Knowing that I can make a difference in a patient's care and overall experience is one of the most fulfilling parts of nursing," added Spears.

Growing up in Allegany, NY, Spears is proud to be serving the community that helped mold her into the person she is today.

"Working in my hometown hospital is very rewarding to me," continued Spears. "I would not be able to do this job without my coworkers, who have become like family to me."

The Nightingale Award is presented quarterly to nurses who demonstrate exceptional clinical skill, compassionate care, leadership and dedication to the nursing profession.

"Katelyn embodies what we hope every nurse brings to the bedside. It's her compassion, commitment, teamwork and genuine desire to make a difference," said Jennifer Ruggles, MSN, RN, chief nursing officer, OGH. "Homegrown healthcare heroes are the backbone of our community and nurses like Katelyn represent why we are all here-to care for our patients, our neighbors and one another."

Other Nightingale nominees included Cindy Coppella, RN; Dianna Cox, LPN; Katherine Frontino, RN; Angela Goodwill, LPN; Julia Grandinetti, RN; Cori Hardcastle, RN; Walter Keim, RN; Micki Orcutt, RN; Tara Plath, RN; Karen Prosser, RN; Christina Ramire, RN; Michele Snyder, LPN; Jessica Soto, LPN; Sherri Washbon, LPN; and Tonie Westlake, RN.