The Professional Nurses Association of South Central New York (PNASCNY) held its 41st annual Nurses Day Breakfast in Binghamton on Thursday, May 7. At the event, UHS registered nurses Jennifer Plohetski, Annie DePugh, and Kim Durkee were honored for their dedication to the profession and received special recognition by the association.
We are proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of our nurses and leaders who were honored at the 2026 PNA Nurses Day Breakfast. These individuals exemplify excellence in nursing practice, advocacy, and service to our patients, colleagues, and community.
The following awards were given to RNs who work at UHS Hospitals:
PNA Nursing Practice Award
Jennifer Plohetski, RN, BSN, South Tower 3, UHS Wilson Medical Center, was recognized with the PNA Nursing Practice Award for her exceptional clinical excellence, leadership, and commitment to patient‑centered care.
Jennifer provides direct patient care for the majority of her professional practice and is widely respected for her clinical judgment, compassion, and ability to manage complex patient situations—particularly those involving behavioral health needs. Her professionalism and calm presence make her a trusted resource for patients, families, and colleagues alike.
A DAISY Award recipient, Jennifer has demonstrated extraordinary therapeutic communication and de‑escalation skills, including intervening during a high‑risk behavioral health crisis to preserve patient dignity and prevent escalation. Her actions reflect the very best of nursing practice.
Beyond the bedside, Jennifer serves as Unit Council Chair for ST3/NT3, contributes to quality improvement initiatives such as pressure injury prevention tools, frequently functions as Charge RN, and mentors new staff as a primary preceptor. As a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care Associate, she supports evidence‑based wound care practices across the organization. She is also an active member of the UHS Nurse Experience Council, advocating for nurses and practice improvement at an organizational level.
Jennifer’s dedication, innovation, and compassion embody the mission and values of professional nursing.
PNA Advocacy Award
Annie DePugh RN, BSN, MPH, CCM, Senior Director of Care Coordination & Health Equity, UHS, received the PNA Advocacy Award in recognition of her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and community well‑being.
Through her work in population health and health equity initiatives, Annie has been a driving force behind some of our organization’s most impactful community programs. She played a key role in the establishment and expansion of the UHS Food Pantry, ensuring food access for patients across our system through strategic partnerships and the distribution of resource bins to primary care and specialty practices.
In 2025, Annie helped launch the Giving Garden, creating a sustainable source of fresh produce for patients experiencing food insecurity. She has also contributed to initiatives such as UHS Stork Support, preventive care outreach, and targeted vaccination efforts—strengthening community health across the lifespan.
Annie’s advocacy is rooted in compassion, equity, and action. Her work continues to improve access, dignity, and outcomes for some of our most vulnerable populations.
PNA Advocacy Award
Kim Durkee, RN, BSN, CCM, Clinical Ladder IV, UHS Workers Compensation, was honored with the PNA Advocacy Award for her decades‑long commitment to community advocacy, public health, and harm‑reduction initiatives.
With over 30 years of nursing experience, Kim combines strong clinical expertise with tireless community engagement. She serves on the Board of Truth Pharm, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing harm from substance use through education, advocacy, and policy reform.
Kim’s advocacy includes organizing and distributing supplies for individuals experiencing homelessness, providing Narcan training across community and long‑term care settings, and directly assisting individuals seeking help for substance use and mental health challenges. She is also a passionate public speaker and policy advocate, representing community needs at local, state, and national forums.
Kim’s work reflects deep compassion, courage, and an unwavering belief in meeting people where they are—qualities that define true nursing advocacy.
Thank you for leading with purpose
Please join us in congratulating Jennifer Plohetski, Annie DePugh, and Kim Durkee for these well‑deserved honors. Their dedication, leadership, and advocacy make a lasting impact on our organization and the communities we serve.
We are proud to celebrate their contributions this Nurses Day and beyond.
