UPDATE: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has just announced the winners of the prestigious 2025 Brown Foundation Award for Excellence in Oncology Nursing. This significant recognition was awarded to Kimberly Vanderhorst, MSN, RN, CAPA, and Terri Lynn Dunn, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, CPHQ, for their remarkable contributions to oncology nursing.
In a groundbreaking move, the Brown Foundation expanded the award to honor both a clinical registered nurse (RN) and an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) in the same year, marking a new milestone for this esteemed recognition. Vanderhorst received the award for clinical RN, while Dunn was honored as the APRN recipient. Each awardee is set to receive $15,000, along with a commemorative plaque and a pin.
This year’s ceremony, held in Houston, Texas, not only recognized these outstanding nurses but also honored four additional finalists in both categories, bringing the total award amount to $50,000. According to Kim Slusser, Ph.D., RN, MSN, NEA-BC, CHPN, interim chief nursing officer at MD Anderson, “We are incredibly grateful to The Brown Foundation for 44 years of unwavering support.”
The finalists exemplify the highest standards in nursing excellence. Vanderhorst, who specializes in outpatient pediatric anesthesia care, has been a vital part of MD Anderson since 2013. Her leadership roles include serving as charge nurse and establishing Code Blue Operations at the Proton Therapy Center. “I fully embrace the healing spirit of MD Anderson,” she stated.
Runner-up Holly Clark, BSN, RN, CNOR, and Leonard Pulido, BSN, RN, CMSRN, were recognized for their exceptional skills and dedication in areas such as brachytherapy and the Outpatient Brain and Spine Center.
Dunn, a seasoned nurse since 2009, has transformed her clinical role in Gynecologic Oncology into a leadership position as an advanced practice provider manager in General Oncology. She has spearheaded initiatives to enhance patient care, including expanding clinical trials for underserved populations. “Nursing is not just about treating disease; it’s about restoring dignity,” Dunn emphasized.
Runner-ups in the APRN category include Tomar Foster-Mills, MSN, APRN, AGPCNP, and Susy Varghese, DNP, FNP, APRN, CMSRN, who have both made significant contributions to patient care and mentorship within their specialties.
MD Anderson’s nursing program is recognized as one of the best globally, with over 5,000 registered nurses and a focus on innovative cancer care. The center has recently achieved its sixth consecutive Magnet Recognition Program® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest honor for nursing excellence.
With the establishment of the Meyers Institute for Oncology Nursing, MD Anderson is committed to shaping the future of nursing through specialized education and professional development programs. This initiative is designed to empower oncology nurses, ensuring they continue to provide the highest level of care to patients battling cancer.
As the Brown Foundation celebrates its legacy, contributing over $1.6 billion to public initiatives since its founding in 1951, MD Anderson remains grateful for their support in recognizing the vital role of nurses in oncology. “They are the gold standard,” said Nancy O’Connor Abendshein, president of The Brown Foundation Board of Trustees, highlighting the compassion and dedication of oncology nurses.
This recognition not only honors individual achievements but also underscores the commitment of MD Anderson and the Brown Foundation to advance the mission of ending cancer.
As the nursing community continues to evolve, expect MD Anderson to lead the charge in enhancing cancer care through innovation and compassion, ensuring that patients receive the best possible support during their most challenging times.
