The University of Pittsburgh Nurse Anesthesia Program recently celebrated the graduation of the student registered nurse anesthetist (SRNA) Class of 2025 at the University Club.
The Nurse Anesthesia Program presented their annual teaching awards at the event to honor educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to SRNA education and clinical instruction. Three anesthesiology clinicians from UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh received awards. Jennifer R. Kundick, MSN, CRNA, received the Vincent Contento SRNA Preceptor Service Award, which recognizes outstanding clinical mentorship of nurse anesthesia students. Joseph D. Borsuk, MS, CRNA, was named “CRNA of the Year” through the Mary DePaolis-Lutzo CRNA Excellence in Education Award. Scott E. Licata, MD, was named “Anesthesiologist of the Year,” through the Stephen C. Finestone Physician Excellence in Education Award.
"We're so proud of our team members," said Susan M. Kelly, MSN, CRNA, Clinical CRNA Director at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. "They bring incredible expertise to our students and have proven their strong commitment to developing the next generation of pediatric anesthesia providers."
"These awards reflect the high caliber of clinical educators within our department," said Toni Orsino, MBA, CRNA, Senior CRNA Director for the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine. "We're fortunate to have clinicians who not only provide outstanding patient care but also invest in shaping the future of our profession."
Congratulations to Jennifer, Joseph, and Scott on this well-deserved recognition and to the Class of 2025 as they embark on their careers as certified registered nurse anesthetists.