Wartburg’s Director of Nursing Honored by Her Peers at National Conference

Wartburg’s Director of Nursing (DON), Paulette Watson, RN, MS, was recently honored at the 2014 National Association of Directors of Nursing Administration in Long Term Care (NADONA) conference this past June in Anaheim, CA for her more than decade-long commitment to serving those entrusted to Wartburg’s care. NADONA is the premier professional nurses’ association dedicated exclusively to Nurse Executives / Nurse Administrators in Long Term Care. As a testament to Ms. Watson’s dedication to her field, she was chosen by her peers to receive this distinction.

“I was truly honored to know that the NADONA, along with my colleagues, recognized and acknowledged my commitment to those we serve. I feel very privileged to work at such a renowned and respected organization. When I began my tenure at Wartburg ten years ago, I was intrigued by the rich history and the mission of nurturing mind, body and spirit. I quickly learned that what we did mattered; it mattered most to the seniors we care for but also to the success of our organization. I strongly believe that every professional, if given the opportunity, would like to work at the best organization in their field and Wartburg is known as one of the premier leaders in Long Term Care, “said Ms. Watson, of her honorific award.

“In the world of post-acute nursing, Ms. Watson is a pillar in this community. It does not surprise me that her peers would recognize her in such a way. We are so proud of her leadership and the work of the entire nursing department,” said David Gentner, President & CEO, Wartburg.

The conference focuses on the current long-term care trends and the necessary tools the Nursing Administrators need for professional success. During the five-day conference Paulette, along with other Directors of Nursing throughout the country, received the esteemed award for being a DON in the same organization for over 10 years. The award reads: Paulette Watson, Recognized for the Excellence in Service and Dedication in the Long Term Care Continuum 2013-2014. Paulette provides oversight of the daily operations within the nursing department and is directly involved with patient care. With her exemplary leadership skills she has lead her organization through successful State and Federal surveys.

“Paulette Watson is a dedicated and compassionate Director of Nursing who knows all her residents and always puts their needs first,” said Paula Ress, Administrator, Skilled Nursing Facility and Adult Day Services at Wartburg.

Wartburg is an award-winning provider of comprehensive senior services, including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, adult day services and hospice care. Its 34-acre campus in Mount Vernon serves seniors and their families in southern Westchester and the northern Bronx, and now the tri-state area. Wartburg’s nursing home has been recognized by “U. S. News & World Report” as among the best nursing homes in New York State for the third straight consecutive year, in 2013. Over the past few years, Wartburg has launched an ambitious building expansion program, including the Friedrichs Residence, providing affordable housing for seniors with 61 independent living apartments, and a rehabilitation and adult day services center of excellence both opened in 2013.