Six nurses from Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital have been recognized as winners of Baltimore magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Nursing Awards, according to an April 17 announcement from the hospital. The awards highlight outstanding nursing professionals across the region and will be featured in the May issue of the magazine. An event honoring the recipients is scheduled for May 7.
The recognition underscores the important role that nurses play at Ascension Saint Agnes and throughout healthcare, spotlighting their expertise and dedication to patient care.
Wendy Lincoln, Chief Nursing Officer at Ascension Saint Agnes, said, “These award-winning nurses embody Ascension Saint Agnes’ values of service, care and integrity, demonstrating expertise, dedication and a commitment to patient-centered care. Their accomplishments reflect the exceptional talent and professionalism of our nursing team and set the standard for excellence across the hospital.”
The six honorees include Casey Davis (BSN, RN), Clinical Unit Coordinator in the Pediatric Emergency Department; Aleda Walters (RN), Oncology Nurse Educator at Ascension Saint Agnes Cancer Institute; Tongela Russoe (RN), Manager of Infection Control; Jennifer Whitcomb (RN Lead) in Intensive Care Unit; Stephanie Williams (BSN, RN), Nurse Navigator at Ascension Saint Agnes Breast Center; and Joshua Kim (RN) from Emergency Department.
Davis said she feels honored to work with families during challenging times: “Being trusted by the community to provide their care is a great honor and responsibility, and I know our pediatric emergency team is making a positive difference.” Walters described her oncology career as rewarding: “I may not be able to cure them, but I can care for them! We become a family of sorts—guiding them, teaching them, and getting them through what is probably the worst part of their lives.”
Russoe shared her personal connection with patients: “You get to connect with lots of people and share meaningful experiences. Some experiences last with you forever.” Whitcomb reflected on her impact: “My job matters, and I truly love what I do.” Williams explained her role supporting patients through difficult diagnoses: “I love being a small part of their journey and hopefully making the process more manageable for them and their loved ones.”
The hospital said it invites members of the community to celebrate these achievements alongside staff.