In a remarkable achievement, Professor Emerita Margarete L. Zalon, Ph.D., from The University of Scranton’s Department of Nursing, has been honored with the 2023 International Book Award by Sigma Theta Tau for her outstanding contribution to nursing literature.
Recognizing Excellence in Nursing: Sigma Theta Tau’s 2023 Capstone International Nursing Book Award
Margarete L. Zalon, renowned for her impactful work, clinched the Sigma Theta Tau 2023 Capstone International Nursing Book Award for Nursing Excellence. This prestigious accolade was bestowed upon the third edition of her book, titled “Nurses Making Policy: From Bedside to Boardroom.”
Sigma Theta Tau: Pinnacle of Nursing Honor
Sigma Theta Tau, the esteemed International Honor Society of Nursing, bestowed this honor during its 47th Biennial Convention in San Antonio, Texas, held from November 11-15, 2023. These international awards symbolize Sigma’s commitment to upholding professional nursing standards, acknowledging exceptional achievements, fostering leadership, and promoting innovative contributions to the field.
A Trailblazing Legacy: Dr. Zalon’s Continuous Recognition
Dr. Zalon’s contributions extend beyond this recent honor. In 2022, she also received the prestigious 2022 American Journal of Nursing (AJN) Book of the Year Award, securing the 2nd position in the Nursing Management and Leadership category. This accomplishment follows her 2019 AJN Book of the Year Award for the second edition of the same book.
Beyond Awards: Dr. Zalon’s Impactful Contributions
Retiring in 2022, Dr. Zalon’s influence in the nursing field is unparalleled. Appointed as a consumer representative to the Pennsylvania e-Health Partnership Advisory Board earlier this year, Dr. Zalon’s leadership legacy includes grassroots advocacy, program design, and positive outcomes in nursing organizations at both state and national levels.
A Storied Career at The University of Scranton
Dr. Zalon’s dedication spans over three decades at the University of Scranton, where she served on various committees and played pivotal roles. As the director of the University’s online Master of Science in Health Informatics Program, she significantly contributed to its accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) in 2021.
Widening Impact: Leadership Beyond Academia
Beyond academia, Dr. Zalon’s influence extends to various nursing organizations. A previous chair of the American Nurses Foundation, a former board member of the American Nurses Association, and a past president of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association, she currently serves as the president of the Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania, focusing on providing scholarships to nursing students.
Research Focus and Recognitions
Dr. Zalon’s research, primarily focusing on vulnerable elders, has resulted in numerous book chapters and articles published in scholarly journals. Her impact also extends to research and health policy presentations at local, state, national, and international levels.
Acknowledging a Storied Career: Awards and Accolades
In 2022, Dr. Zalon received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty, and the wider community. Her accolades also include the Duke University School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna Award, the PSNA Distinguished Nurse Award, and a Leahy Fellowship at Scranton. Furthermore, she received the University’s Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award in 2020.
Educational Background
Dr. Zalon’s journey began at Duke University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She furthered her education with master’s and Ph.D. degrees from New York University.
In summary, Professor Emerita Margarete L. Zalon’s journey is marked by excellence, continuous contributions to nursing, and a lasting impact on healthcare policy and delivery. Her awards and recognitions reflect a career dedicated to advancing the field and inspiring future generations of nurses.