2024 Award Winner Spotlight: President's Award

The Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN) is pleased to announce the 2024 President's Award recipient, Maria Radwanski, MSN, FARN RN CRRN CMGT-BC NE-BC. Selected by current ARN President Maureen Musto, MS RN APRN-CNS ACNS-BC CRRN FARN, and presented at this year's 50^th Rehabilitation Nursing Conference, this award honors Maria's significant and enduring contributions to both ARN and the field of rehabilitation nursing. 

The President's Award is a special honor, awarded solely at the discretion of the sitting president, recognizing individuals whose service exemplifies the values and mission of ARN.

Honoring Dedication and Service

"I have known Maria since I joined the board in 2019, and I have always found her to be kind and welcoming. Over the years, it has been a pleasure to get to know her better," Maureen shared. "Maria has been a dedicated volunteer in ARN for many years, serving in various roles from local chapter boards to national committees, including the Health Policy Committee and the Certification Board. Under her involvement with the Nominating and Leadership Development Committee, we saw a record number of applicants willing to serve ARN. This speaks volumes about the openness of the committee and the leadership of people like Maria."

Maria's exceptional contributions were also recognized by her colleagues when she was selected as a Fellow of ARN (FARN). ARN's 2022 President's Award Winner, Tina Roma Fisher, RN MSN CRRN FARN, stated, "Maria will continue to advocate for the viability and growth of ARN and will look at the broader picture to lead ARN into the future." The late Mary Ellen Hatch, MSN RN CRRN FARN, echoed this, adding, "Maria is the picture of integrity in leadership and thoughtful decision-making."

President Musto concluded, "Maria's support, knowledge, and compassion during my transition as President have been invaluable. Her willingness to assist has made my transition much smoother. Maria is truly deserving of this award."

Q&A with Maria Radwanski

What does this honor mean to you?

I am profoundly honored and deeply humbled to receive the ARN President's Award, a distinction that is not bestowed lightly or annually. The recognition holds great meaning to me, and I am truly grateful to be honored in this extraordinary way.

What would you say to encourage someone to volunteer within the organization?

Volunteering for ARN in each role has always offered a unique opportunity to make a meaningful contribution. What I have received in return has rewarded me far in excess of the time I've invested. The people I've connected with are now friends, the skills I've gained, and the difference I've made for others are invaluable. All contributions, no matter the size, enrich the organization and have provided me with deep fulfillment and purpose.

What was one of your favorite memories of being an ARN president?

My favorite memory was the ARN President's Reception. I was introduced to a new ARN member who was attending her first conference. She told me she had 'fire in her belly' and had found her home in Rehabilitation Nursing. I recognize that fire, and I get inspired every time I hear stories like this from our members!

Anything else you'd like to mention?

My volunteer commitment to ARN is not over. I will continue to serve and encourage others to serve in whatever capacity I can. ARN's future is bright, and I am here to support and watch it shine!

Celebrating Maria's Impact

Maria Radwanski's dedication to advancing rehabilitation nursing and her steadfast support of ARN's mission have left a lasting impact. Her vision, leadership, and commitment to the field continue to inspire both colleagues and future leaders. Congratulations, Maria, on this well-deserved honor!

About Maria

Maria Radwanski served as the 2022-2023 ARN President of the Board of Directors. Maria has over 40 years of rehabilitation nursing experience as a Primary Nurse, Nurse Manager, Rehabilitation Clinical Nurse Specialist, an IRF, outpatient rehab clinic, and rehab-focused home health agency. Presently, she is a Manager in Care Transitions at Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center supporting discharge planning needs in the Emergency Department, Same Day Surgery, Ambulatory Specialties and the Penn State Cancer Institute.