The annual CAHCH Judith Hriceniak Award for Nursing Leadership award, presented to Theresa Santoro in 2020, is a true tribute to both its recipient and its namesake. Here is a little bit about Dr. Judith Hriceniak.

Throughout her life and career, Dr. Judith Hriceniak (1938-2000) was widely recognized for her achievements as an administrator and nursing educator. She began her career as a registered nurse and director of Home Care Services at Bristol Hospital. In 1973, she joined the  Central Connecticut State University faculty, coordinating the Nurse Teacher Education Program and subsequently developing, implementing and gaining accreditation for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.

Dr. Hriceniak served as a mentor and role model for students and faculty through her extensive participation in professional organizations at the local, state and national levels. She was also the recipient of various awards and recognitions, including the Connecticut Nurses Association, 1990 Diamond Jubilarian, Josephine A. Dolan Award for Outstanding Contributions to Nursing Education, and the 1991 Phi Lambda Theta Outstanding Educator Award. Dr. Hriceniak received her Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Connecticut, where she also earned a M.S. in nursing, she held an M.S., in education from CCSU and a B.S.N. from Boston University.

As Central Connecticut State University’s (CCSU) chairperson of the Department of Health and Human Services, Dr. Hriceniak was honored with CCSU’s Prestigious Distinguished Service Award in recognition of her exemplary service; exceptional performance in academic disciplines, dedicated service to students, the community and her professional field, as well the public and professional recognition of her research and scholarship achievements.