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Ryukyu Middle School nurse selected as OSHNA School Nurse of the Year

  • Published
  • By Megan Rattliff
  • U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity - Pacific Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Holly Gouldman, a school nurse with the Department of Defense Education Activity Pacific, was recently selected as the Overseas School Health Nurses Association 2012 School Nurse of the Year.

Gouldman, a registered nurse at Ryukyu Middle School on Kadena Air Base, has been a nurse with DoDEA Pacific schools for 12 years.

Martha Brown, superintendent of the DoDEA Okinawa District said Gouldman makes a real difference for her students.

"Holly's support of our schools and students extends far beyond the walls of Ryukyu Middle School," said Brown. "We're so proud of her, and so proud to have her in our district."

Ryukyu Middle School Principal Paul Currier agreed. "I have the pleasure of observing the work that Holly does every day," said Currier, "and am very proud that she has been recognized for her talent, caring, professionalism, and proactive approach to wellness. Congratulations, Holly for being named OSHNA's, and for always being our, School Nurse of the Year!"

OSHNA is the only professional organization for registered nurses who are employed as school nurses outside of the continental United States. The global organization represents members from DoDEA Europe, DoDEA Pacific, and many international schools.

The OSHNA School Nurse of the Year is chosen by a special OSHNA committee. The committee reviews portfolio submissions for demonstrated excellence in the school nursing practice, leadership in school health, and promoting the health of school children in the local community.

"Helping people as a nurse is a wonderful feeling," said Gouldman, "but to help these selfless families, far from their support networks and in service to our country, is an honor."

Gouldman will be recognized during OSHNA's annual conference taking place March 24-25 in Kaiserslautern-Hohenecken, Germany, and again by the National Association of School Nurses during their annual conference in San Francisco June 22-26.

For more information on OSHNA and the School Nurse of the Year Award visit http://www.oshna.org.