2014 Founders Award Winner

Barbara has been a member of APSNA since 1999, and has served as the Treasurer for the organization during two major eras, from 2001-2003, and then again from 2011-2013. Through her involvement in this particular board position, she has also been part of the investment committee and has mentored several treasurers through dedication, responsibility and nurturing accountability. Her legacy in the organization’s financial strength is recognized and invaluable.

Barbara has raised the quality of pediatric surgical care in several ways. Barbara was the first dedicated pediatric surgical nurse practitioner in the San Antonio/South Texas area, which made her a leader and maverick in her field. Dr. Cigarroa, the current Chancellor of the University of Texas System, recruited her in 1999 to the Department of Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) to lead his effort in rebuilding a division of Pediatric Surgery. This included her role in beginning a transplantation program at the UTHSCSA, which included small bowel transplantation. Her specialized clinical expertise includes a wide gamut of pediatric subspecialties such gastroenterology, transplant and pediatric surgery; her expertise in these fields are invaluable to her role as teacher and mentor to nursing and medical staff.