Celebrating those who change lives: Devereux honors nurses, teachers during May observances

“Even though the world is large, one person can still make a world of difference.”
– Frank Sonnenberg, author

At Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health we are honoring our approximately 200 nurses and 200 teachers who make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children, adolescents and adults they serve.

We celebrate these inspiring individuals during the following annual observances – and year-round.

Nurses:
- National Nurses Month: May
- National Nurses Week: May 6-12
- National Nurses Day: May 6

Teachers:
- National Teacher Appreciation Week: May 8-12
- National Teacher Appreciation Day: May 2

“Our nurses and teachers are simply the best, going above and beyond to meet the needs of those they serve,” said Devereux President and CEO Carl E. Clark II. “Whether they are working to ensure the health and well-being of those in their care or assisting their students in developing the skills they need to succeed, the impact these servant leaders make in our treatment settings and classrooms is unparalleled. We want to thank and acknowledge them for all they do today and every day.”

Providing the highest quality care

Each year, National Nurses Week begins on May 6 and ends on May 12, which is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.

Since 2020, the American Nurses Association has held a monthlong celebration in May to recognize the contributions and sacrifices of the more than four million registered nurses in the U.S.

At Devereux, our nurses strive to provide the highest quality and most compassionate care for the youth and adults they serve. Look below to find out what a few of them love most about their jobs.

“I feel privileged to be a nurse. The most rewarding part of my job is helping others, especially those who cannot help themselves. Knowing my work directly impacts an individual’s quality of life fills me with a sense of purpose and pride. Being a nurse is not always an easy job, but it is always a job worth doing.”
– Adult Services Nurse Sandra Godin

“I always strive to be a better nurse today than I was yesterday. I have a need, desire and passion to serve others, provide the best possible care and collaborate with my colleagues to enhance the well-being of our residents. To successfully achieve a meaningful outcome, and to know I have made a difference in someone’s life, are the most rewarding parts of my job.”
– Devereux California Nurse Maria Albano

“I love having the opportunity to make a difference in an individual’s life, see them smile and help them achieve their optimal level of well-being. The most rewarding part of my job is knowing the impact I have on people. I try to help each individual feel valued, special and heard.”
– Devereux New Jersey Nurse Kristy McDowell

Helping students thrive

In recognition of National Teacher Appreciation Week, the National Parent Teacher Association is encouraging supporters to express their gratitude – using the social media hashtag #ThankATeacher – for all they do to support the development of their students.

Devereux’s teachers encourage and support their students, helping them unlock and reach their full potential. Here is what some of them told us is the most rewarding part of their jobs.

“I love my job. I have the power to impact students, not just by imparting knowledge and sharing in their passions, but by showing up as a role model and a compassionate support system. Seeing my students learn and grow fills me with joy and pride. Teaching is truly rewarding – it is satisfying to know my career choice can make a lifetime of differences for my students.”
– Devereux Georgia Teacher Sharmathy Selwyn

“What I like most about being a teacher is touching lives and seeing my students meet – and surpass – their goals and abilities. I like empowering my students to be the best they can be, and help them realize they can become successful in life no matter what challenges they may face. The most rewarding part of my job is seeing my students succeed.”
– Devereux Massachusetts/Rhode Island Teacher Olanzer Cameron

“Teaching is a fulfilling job with tangible results. I am able to see the impact I have on the lives of those I teach. I watch students make progress across their natural environments, become role models and so much more. The most rewarding part of my position is making positive influences that promote student growth.”
– Devereux Pennsylvania – Children’s Services Teacher Jamie Goffney

Want to make a difference? Join our team!

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is hiring nurses and teachers to work alongside other dedicated behavioral health professionals who share a passion for helping youth and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences. Visit jobs.devereux.org to explore our career opportunities today.

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