OLEAN, NY – Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC) and Olean General Hospital (OGH) presented Deborah Knier, BSN, RN, with the second quarter Nightingale Award. A nurse with the organization since 1989, Knier is currently a registered nurse in the oncology office at the Barry Street Health Center.

“Deborah is the true definition of a compassionate nurse. The glue that keeps the oncology and hematology office together, she’s nothing short of incredible, as she continuously goes above and beyond for patients and family members. As a 35-year veteran, Deborah has an ongoing dedication to the nursing profession and demonstrates attention to detail, a high-level of professionalism, a wealth of knowledge, kindness, exceptional communication skills, hard work, and checks every box to be nominated for this respected award,” said her nomination. “Deborah is an absolute pleasure to work with and we’re, as well as the community, are lucky to have a nurse like her!”

The Nightingale Award is a result of nominations from medical providers and other team members throughout UAHS. The prestigious award is presented quarterly to one nurse who provides exceptional patient care, excels in patient and family teachings, creates an environment of efficient open communication with patients, as well as serving as a role model for peers.

UAHS named the highly coveted nursing award after Florence Nightingale, who laid the groundwork for the philosophy and underpinnings of modern-day nursing. Throughout Florence Nightingale’s career she displayed qualities such as integrity, nursing excellence, compassion, and service.

Knier wanted to become a nurse ever since the second grade following in her parent’s footsteps who gave back to their community who were first responders in their local fire department. She obtained her LPN from BOCES while in high school and became a registered nurse after graduating from Jamestown Community College in 1989. After graduating she began working at OGH and over the course of her nursing career has worked in several units including med-surg, the ICU, PACU, and most recently oncology. Knier eventually earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix.

“I really enjoy working with patients and my co-workers,” added Knier. “Our community is fortunate to have our hospital and the resources we have. Unfortunately, post-COVID it’s difficult to find people to work and many places are suffering the same staffing issues. We have to be patient and kind to each other during the trying times.”

Knier is a proud mother of two children and grandmother of one amazing grandson.