Expansive knowledge. Compassionate care. Excellent clinician. Mentor, friend. Or, as the students as Babson College would call you, "Dr. Rita!" Your professional life is characterized by a commitment to student life, quality health care, and a firm belief in the value of education and advocacy. Throughout your career you have never been satisfied with the status quo, always going "above and beyond" to care for your students and support your colleagues.
Rita Sheppard, RNC
2004 Louise Gazzara Award Recipient
Many in NECHA experienced a sense of loss with your retirement as Director of Health Services at Framingham State College. Thankfully, you chose not to take the phrase "early retirement" literally, returning to direct clinical health practice at Babson. No question is too small, no crisis too big, no level of confusion too daunting - you dispense advice, education and medical care with warmth, humor and caring.
As a "go-to" person, you are willing to share your knowledge with others and get involved in projects designed to promote health and wellness at Babson. You are a frequent contributor to the Health Services Newsletter, serve on numerous student affairs committees, and offer workshops for students and staff on a variety of issues. You have earned the respect and accolades that students and colleagues alike have bestowed upon you.
Beyond the college campus, you have a long history of serving as a role model to others. Your leadership with the Massachusetts College Health Association of Nurse Directors (CHAND) kept that group connected with public health policies and practices. Your involvement with NECHA consistently provided advocacy for continuing education.
Rita, welcome back! The New England College Health Association is proud to honor you with this award in recognition of the excellence, professionalism and collegiality that have defined your work in college health.