Dr. Patti Conard, Jim L. Hanna Endowed Professor in the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith’s School of Nursing, has been named the 2025 Arkansas Nurse of the Year in Education.

Conard was selected for the March of Dimes award through a competitive statewide process recognizing registered and licensed practical nurses who exemplify exceptional compassion, leadership, and impact in the nursing profession, workplace, and community. Hundreds of applications were reviewed by high-ranking nurse leaders across categories ranging from Advanced Practice to Women’s Health, with finalists selected based on their demonstrated excellence and contributions.

“Receiving the Arkansas Nurse of the Year in Education award represents a profound and deeply meaningful milestone in my professional journey,” Conard said. “It reflects the dedication, perseverance, and compassion that I strive to bring to my work each day.”

The award highlights Conard’s work as an educator and mentor, shaping future generations of nurses in the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing at UAFS.

“Being named Nurse of the Year in Education is an honor that fills me with gratitude and renewed commitment,” she said. “This award signifies the values I hold — excellence in patient care, commitment to ethical practice, collaboration with colleagues, and continuous professional growth. It reflects not only individual effort, but also the influence of the mentors, peers, and patients who have shaped my practice and strengthened my resolve to serve with integrity

“I am reminded of the privilege I have in influencing so many emerging nurses and in contributing to the countless patients they will care for in the years ahead,” Conard added. “Being named Nurse of the Year in Education strengthens my commitment to excellence, inspires me to continue growing as an educator, and reaffirms the profound value of teaching within the nursing profession.”

She also expressed appreciation to Dr. Paula Julian and Dr. Dean Cantu for cultivating an environment where educators and students alike can thrive.

“I deeply appreciate my leadership for fostering a supportive environment where nurses can grow and flourish,” she said.

Julian, executive director of the School of Nursing, praised Conard for her leadership and dedication to student success.

“I feel very fortunate to have nursing faculty whose expertise and passion reflect the highest standards of our profession,” Julian said. “Dr. Patti Conard exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and student-focused teaching that enhance the reputation of the Carolyn McKelvey Moore School of Nursing. She is shaping the future of nursing at UAFS, and I am proud to have her as part of our faculty.”

Dr. Tammy Rogers, assistant professor and simulation coordinator at UAFS, was also named a finalist, a nod to the strength of the nursing program in this statewide competition. 

March of Dimes is a national nonprofit organization committed to improving the health of mothers and babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and maternal mortality. Its Nurse of the Year awards recognize nursing excellence and leadership across various disciplines.

For more about the mission of March of Dimes, visit https://www.marchofdimes.org/about-us/mission.