Sisters of Providence nurse recognized nationally

Sisters of Providence Clinical Care Director/Nurse Navigator and Terre Haute resident Elizabeth “Beth” Collins, R.N., was not only surprised she had been nominated; she was stunned to receive the recognition.

In November, Beth, along with 18 others, was named one of the top 2024 Patient Care Honorees at the Wholeness of Life Dinner celebration which took place in New York.

She had been nominated for the honor by Sister of Providence General Councilor Sister Carole Kimes.

‘Humbled’

“I was surprised and humbled to be honored for simply doing what I love,” Beth said. “It was lovely to be recognized and validated for the work that I do, which sometimes has difficult and ambiguous outcomes.”

In her nomination, Sister Carole wrote: “Beth is an exemplary partner with the Sisters of Providence … In her unique manner, she embodies our mission of love, mercy and justice.”

Sister Carole continued explaining how Beth has worked with the Sisters in groups and one-on-one.

“She works with our Sisters who live independently but also is a consultant for our Sisters when they move to assisted living/skilled care,” Sister Carole said. “Beth recognizes the need for holistic health and delivers it from a faith-based perspective.

“Her own spiritual life and professional life as a hospice nurse guides her in the care she delivers to our Sisters. She is resourceful and has a non-judgmental heart. Her care is not separated but rather addresses the individual’s need to be treated body, mind and spirit.”

A ‘Privilege’

“It is a privilege and precious responsibility to journey with individual Sisters of Providence and with the Congregation,” Beth said. “I am encouraged to use the gifts I have been given in collaboration with others, to make life a little bit better for those in need regardless of who they are or what they believe.”

Sister Carole added Beth not only works with many Sisters of Providence but also works with others at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods when needed.

“Beth goes above and beyond her day-to-day work with this ministry and responds after hours,” Sister Carole wrote. “She extends her service to the community-at-large.

“In addition to meeting the needs of each day, Beth trains others who are dealing with cognitive issues. She is a Certified Dementia Care Facilitator and is instrumental in establishing a monthly Memory Café at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, which is open to the public for loved ones and those living with cognitive change, both an education and support for families.”

Beth was unable to attend the gala which took place in New York but received the Patient Care Honoree certificate.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve among the Sisters of Providence which allows me to grow, find my purpose and hopefully make a difference in the lives of others,” she said.