A woman of profound passion and conviction - you embody the sensitivity, compassion and spirituality that are essential to holistic health care. A one-woman dynamo, you define the epicenter of humanity, never treating an illness or injury -- always caring for the person. A professional life characterized by a commitment to student life and social justice -- grounded in the belief that supporting, mentoring and advocating for students, gives them voices that will not falter. You are a "one woman show," an exceptional diagnostician armed with a wealth of knowledge and a desire to share it with others. For over a dozen years you have dispensed advice, education and encouragement -- delivered with warmth, humor and grace. As the challenges of student health have increased over the years, so has your unwavering commitment to those in need. First and foremost, your focus is on students. At Anna Maria College, you developed a Peer Education program that is not just grounded in sound training on health issues but in respecting others and valuing those whose ideas and lives may be different from our own. Through your guidance, students acquire the tools to make positive choices in their lives. Your work with students has extended beyond the Anna Maria campus as you have mentored student involvement in regional and national college health organizations. A champion of under represented groups, you have been a valuable participant in the Worcester AIDS consortium and an advocate for the recognition of gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-gendered issues at the national college health level.
Progressive minded . . . forward thinking . . . loved, respected, admired… valued colleague, treasured friend . . .
stated most simply, Sandy Stern!
Sandra Stern, RNC, ANP
2002 Louise Gazzara Award Recipient