Celebrating Excellence in Cultural Diversity: Dr. Michele J. Upvall Receives Mary Cash Award

Dr. Michele J. Upvall, Professor and Director of the PhD in Nursing Program, has been awarded the prestigious Mary Cash Award by the Florida Nurses Association (FNA). This honor recognizes Dr. Upvall’s outstanding contributions to fostering cultural diversity within nursing and healthcare.

The Mary Cash Award is presented to nurses who exemplify leadership and advocacy in promoting culturally competent nursing practices. Recipients must demonstrate insight, awareness, and sensitivity towards diverse patient populations, as well as lead efforts in creating an inclusive environment within the nursing profession. Dr. Upvall has excelled in all of these areas, making her an ideal recipient of this award.

Throughout her career, Dr. Upvall has passionately advocated for healthcare practices that honor the values and belief systems of patients from all backgrounds. Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of nurses from diverse cultures has paved the way for more inclusive and empathetic healthcare practices. She has also played a key role in fostering unity within the profession by championing the idea that diversity makes us stronger.

Dr. Upvall will be recognized at the FNA Awards Dinner and Reception on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at the Marriott Hutchinson Island Beach Resort in Stuart, Florida, as part of the Annual Membership Assembly. She will also be featured in the November edition of The Florida Nurse where her contributions to nursing will be further highlighted.