Nurses are at the heart of patient care, offering compassion and expertise while shaping the healing journey of those they serve. It’s no surprise that for 23 straight years, nursing has been named America’s most trusted profession, according to Gallup surveys.
This National Nurses Week, May 6-12, the country formally celebrates the profession. California-based, not-for-profit Sutter Health is no exception, recognizing all its nurses and honoring four standout registered nurses as “Nurses of the Year.”
Nurse Seen as ‘Force of Good’
Sunny Freier
Nurses are curious, life-long learners and often remarkable innovators. When faced with a challenge of managing a high-volume of patients seeking emergency care, Sunny Freier, Sutter Roseville Medical Center Emergency Department nurse, stepped up with determination and vision. She led a team in rethinking the department’s triage process to boost efficiency. Her leadership not only improved patient flow but also helped reduce the number of patients who leave before being seen, helping more people receive timely, quality care.
Widely recognized for her nursing expertise, Freier’s colleagues frequently seek her guidance to identify opportunities for improvement. Her professionalism and collaborative spirit have earned her deep respect — not only among her peers within the hospital, but also throughout the broader community.
“Sunny is a tremendous asset to our team who always goes above and beyond to address the needs of the patient, staff and the department,” said Catherine Turner, chief nurse executive at Sutter Roseville. “She has made a huge impact in the Emergency Department and is incredibly deserving of the Nurse of the Year Award!”
Nurse Demonstrates Unlimited Potential to Deliver Top-Tier Care
Tinsley West
Nurses are always looking for ways to elevate patient care, and Tinsley West, Sutter’s Mills-Peninsula Medical Center Emergency Department nurse, exemplifies that commitment. She consistently exceeds key performance metrics in critical areas, such as stroke, STEMI and sepsis care — demonstrating her ability to deliver exceptional, high-quality care when every minute matters.
A passionate leader, West was selected to join a small team for the Ultrasound-Guided IV Insertion program, where she not only excelled at the program but took it upon herself to mentor her peers. As a primary preceptor for new nurses in the Emergency Department, she is a trusted resource, respected across her department for her knowledge, guidance and support.
West’s expertise in the “Door to Insertion Time” for stroke patients requiring Emergent Large Vessel Occlusion thrombectomies consistently outperforms industry standards, helping to ensure patients receive critical, time-sensitive treatment as quickly as possible.
“Tinsley is not only a role model for nursing, but for everyone at Sutter Health,” said Jennifer Ellman, chief nurse executive at Mills-Peninsula. “Whether managing complex cases, mentoring colleagues or stepping up when it matters most, her impact is felt across the department.”
Nurse’s Humble Presence Guides Families through Vulnerable Moments
Dan Deason
Dan Deason, Sutter Center for Psychiatry behavioral health nurse, is deeply committed to creating a positive, supportive environment for each patient. Known for going the extra mile, he consistently finds a way to brighten patients’ days by making them feel seen, heard and valued.
As a behavioral health nurse, Deason brings compassion to every interaction, skillfully managing complex medication needs while thoughtfully addressing patients’ concerns. His calm demeanor and clear communication are vital in de-escalating tense situations, helping to create a safe, emotionally supportive and stable environment.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Deason is a supportive and positive team member whose presence uplifts the entire unit. His colleagues often note that his ability to build trust, establish rapport and maintain composure makes a profound difference for patients navigating mental health challenges.
“Dan’s commitment to both patients and colleagues makes him an invaluable asset to our team,” said Leilanie Ayala, director of behavioral health nursing. “We’re thrilled for Dan — he’s the first nurse at Sutter Center for Psychiatry to earn this recognition, and it’s well deserved. He’s committed to ensuring patients feel safe and supported.”
Nurse Leads with Purpose
Molly Welker
Nurses continually find creative, evidence-based ways to promote health and healing, and Molly Welker, Sutter Delta Medical Center cardiac cath lab nurse, exemplifies this every day. Welker’s proactive approach has elevated STEMI care (a high-risk type of heart attack) to the highest standards.
By diligently tracking and analyzing STEMI case outcomes, Welker has driven continuous improvement and enhanced patient experiences. As the first Nurse of the Year recipient from Sutter Delta Medical Center, she fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging colleagues to share insights and experiences to strengthen care delivery across the team.
Her leadership stands out during busy shifts and complex situations, where she steps up with focus and composure to help guide her team. With clear communication and a supportive presence, Welker creates a collaborative environment where team members feel empowered and patients receive attentive, compassionate care.
“Molly is an incredible nurse, whose dedication inspires her colleagues,” said Stephanie Johnson, chief nurse executive at Sutter Delta. “She delivers meaningful, high-quality care and is always ready to help those around her. We’re so proud of what she’s accomplished!”
Awards Honor Nursing Philosophy
Across Sutter, the Nursing Philosophy of Care supports a culture of clinical excellence and compassionate service. The Nurse of the Year recipients — selected out of 170 nominees — exemplify the organization’s four nursing pillars: Force of Good, Humble Presence, Unique Contribution and Unlimited Potential.
The annual award encourages nurses to recognize their peers and highlight the commitment they bring to their practice, both inside and outside the care setting.
“This award honors four incredible individuals across our organization who embody our values and live our mission each day, caring for our patients first and our people always,” said Sutter Health’s Chief Nurse Officer Katrina Ascencio-Holmes. “It’s a tremendous honor to recognize Sunny Freier, Tinsley West, Dan Deason and Molly Welker as Sutter’s Nurses of the Year for their compassionate care and outstanding contributions to patients, families and our entire organization.”
