The ASU–Beebe nursing department is proud to celebrate the achievements of nursing instructor Tonya Brownfield and Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program graduate Kristen Street, who were recently honored with nominations for the prestigious DAISY Awards.
The DAISY Award, founded in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, recognizes nurses who demonstrate extraordinary, compassionate care. Initially created to acknowledge hospital nurses, the award has since expanded to celebrate nursing educators, leaders and students who make a lasting impact on their patients and peers.
Brownfield has been a nurse for 12 years, starting her journey at Arkansas State University’s AASN program, attending classes at ASU-Beebe, before earning her BSN through Arkansas Tech University. Now an instructor at ASU-Beebe, she has embraced the role of mentoring the next generation of nurses.
"Just like my instructors at that time, I just had this feeling I wanted to teach," Brownfield said. “My husband encouraged me to go ahead and do it…I find the work incredibly rewarding."
Brownfield’s dedication to her students goes beyond classroom instruction. She prioritizes creating a supportive environment, ensuring students feel encouraged and motivated even on their most challenging days. "I always remind them to ‘remember their why,’” Brownfield said, referencing a motto she proudly displays on a sweatshirt that has become a source of inspiration for her students.
Street, a recent graduate of the LPN program, shared her deeply personal motivation for entering the nursing field. "Health was very important to me," she said as a former nutrition club owner. "I’ve always wanted to be a nurse, but ultimately, I saw the change in people’s health right in front of my eyes in 21-day challenges, and I said it’s time to go to nursing school and be the change."
As a student, Street thrived in the clinical setting, where she felt energized and connected to her purpose. She described the honor of being nominated for the DAISY Award as "very humbling" and a testament to her determination to make a difference, even in the early stages of her career.
Street credits her instructors, including Brownfield, with helping her stay focused and determined, even on tough days. "She encourages us to keep going and reminds us of why we’re here," Street said.
ASU-Beebe’s practical nursing program, approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, prepares students for successful careers as licensed practical nurses. The program combines rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience, enabling graduates to provide exceptional patient care.
The achievements of Brownfield and Street exemplify the program’s tradition of excellence and its focus on fostering compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals.
As Brownfield looks forward to earning her master’s degree in nursing education, and Street plans to continue her studies in the registered nursing program, their stories reflect the resilience, dedication, and heart that the DAISY Award represents.
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