A Look at the May 2026 Winner for the Excellence in Nursing Education Award
Sarah Sixby, RN, Clinical Services Manager, UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation
(summary of her nomination) Sarah Sixbey demonstrates exceptional leadership in nursing education through her comprehensive and thoughtful approach to training both staff and patients. She ensures team members are well-prepared and confident by translating complex concepts into clear, practical applications that enhance consistency and performance. Through programs like Healthy Start and Moms Matter, she has expanded education to patients and families, equipping them with knowledge and support to navigate their healthcare journeys. Her engaging and supportive teaching style fosters confidence, encourages questions, and promotes real-world application of skills. Sarah’s mentorship and dedication inspire ongoing professional growth, leaving a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the communities she serves.
Sarah’s influence as an educator extends far beyond the classroom, shaping both the confidence of her colleagues and the well-being of the communities she serves. Through her leadership in developing innovative programs, she has created meaningful opportunities for education, connection, and support among patients and families. Her ability to make learning accessible, engaging, and empowering ensures that knowledge is not only understood, but applied in impactful ways. She fosters an environment where individuals feel supported, capable, and inspired to grow. Sarah’s passion, clarity, and commitment to education truly embody excellence in nursing education.
A look back at past winner
The Excellence in Nursing Education Award recognizes the work of outstanding nurses who show exceptional skill, innovation, and effectiveness in promoting education for nurses. This outstanding nurse:
- Serves as a role model/mentor by using best practices and incorporating an evidence-based approach in teaching
- Facilitates communication regarding practice changes
- Generously shares their experience and knowledge
- Passionate about helping others be the best UAMS nurse they can be
- Consistently provides education to patients and/or families
- Inspires novice and seasoned nurses to pursue additional degrees/continued education, and specialties expertise
Nomination Requirements
- Nominee must be a registered nurse.
- Provides nursing/health education for patient and/or family, nurses and/or unit/area/clinic staff. Nominee does not have to be in a formal ‘educator’ role.
Nomination Process
- Complete online application below in its entirety relating to the nurse you are nominating. If you have any supportive information in the area provided in the nomination form, please attach it. NOTE: Nominations will not be accepted after the closing date.
- The nominator may request, from the nominee, evidence of the nursing education provided to submit along with the application. This could include class evaluations, preceptor evaluations, emails, certificate of appreciation, CEUs of course taught, etc.
Selection Process
- Nominations, that meet criteria, will be blinded and reviewed by the Awards Committee. The Awards Committee will select winners based only on the information provided in the nomination and supportive information.
- Nominees who meet the criteria, as well as the selected winner, will be celebrated during annual Professional Nursing Awards ceremony.
Click here to view past nomination example.