The Texas Children’s Trauma Program honors exceptional trauma nurses through its prestigious Trauma Nurse Excellence Award each year. This recognition celebrates clinical mastery, innovation and unwavering dedication to trauma care. The award is not merely ceremonial—it reflects a deep commitment to elevating trauma nursing as a cornerstone of patient safety and system excellence.
Congratulations to the 2025 Trauma Nurse Excellence Award recipients each recognized for their exemplary service and leadership. Their stories illustrate how trauma nurses go beyond clinical duties to shape the future of care.
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Justin Austin (The Woodlands)
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Brittany Phelps (Medical Center)
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Amy Williams (North Austin)
Nurses are nominated by peers, leaders or physician colleagues based on rigorous criteria including:
- Advanced clinical skill
- Contributions to injury prevention policy
- Advocacy for trauma patients and families
- Leadership in education, research and performance improvement initiatives
The selection process is deliberate and thoughtful, emphasizing substance over popularity. Nominees must demonstrate active engagement in trauma-related organizations, have published in peer-reviewed journals or led quality improvement initiatives. Winners are celebrated with a unit-based recognition event and perpetual plaque, an individual trophy and a one-year membership to the Society of Trauma Nurses.
The award is also a strategic tool for reinforcing a culture of excellence across the hospital’s trauma system. It aligns with broader initiatives such as trauma redesignation surveys, education programs and outreach efforts like “Stop the Bleed.” Through this annual recognition, Texas Children’s not only honors individual achievement but also strengthens its collective mission to deliver world-class trauma care.
