Faculty & Staff Spotlight

What have Dr. Kathleen Sekula and Dr. Denise Lucas been up to?

Dr. Kathleen Sekula, professor and the Noble J. Dick endowed chair in academic leadership in the School of Nursing, has received the 2021 Ann Burgess Forensic Nursing Research Award from the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN). Her award will be announced during the International Conference on Forensic Nursing Science and Practice, which will be held virtually in September

The Ann Burgess Forensic Nursing Research Award honors an individual who has made exceptional research contributions to the field of forensic nursing. Sekula’s efforts in forensic nursing emphasize the need for working toward a horizon-expanding education that reaches the larger world.

Dr. Denise Lucas, clinical associate professor and chair of Advanced Practice Programs in the School of Nursing, has received a 2021 Jenco Award from the Jenco Foundation Fund at the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio. The award recognizes visionary leaders and volunteers whose direct actions have increased the dignity and sense of worth of individuals in Appalachian Ohio through creative problem-solving.

Lucas has volunteered at the Ohio Valley Health Center in Steubenville, Ohio, since 2013. She provides high quality, holistic health care to any adult, regardless of ability to pay. Lucas’ work highlights the need to work side-by-side with communities to address changes and challenges in the health care field.