Carrying the Flame: Nightingale Foundation Honors Visionaries
In late August, Nightingale Education Group hosted its annual Flame Forward! conference at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, bringing together collaborators from across the country. During Wednesday’s town hall, Nightingale Foundation presented three awards to stakeholders who have significantly contributed to its mission and success.
The first award presented was the Partner of the Year Award, which honors an outstanding partner organization whose collaboration, commitment, and impact have advanced the Foundation’s shared mission over the past year. This award went to Providence Alaska Foundation, which exemplifies what it means to be a true partner — bringing dedication, innovation, and a spirit of collaboration that strengthens communities and creates lasting change. Through strategic alignment and a deep commitment to those we serve, Providence Alaska has gone above and beyond to foster positive outcomes and build a better future for healthcare education. As the Foundation’s first Spark Camp partner, Providence Alaska provided nurse and clinical educators to support the program. With the largest trauma center in Alaska, they understand the critical need for nurses throughout the state and remain deeply committed to growing the nursing workforce and elevating the importance of healthcare education.
Sheri Marckstadt, Manager of the Family Nurse Practitioner Program, was awarded the Volunteer of the Year award. This honor recognizes her unwavering dedication, generosity, and service to the Foundation. Sheri has made a profound impact on the Foundation’s mission, Nightingale College’s learners, and the communities we serve. She consistently gives her time, talent, and heart, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism. Her involvement and commitment have been a driving force behind the Foundation’s continued success. A passionate supporter since day one, Sheri currently serves as chair of the Nurse Practitioner Scholarship Fund, established in 2022. She continues to make a meaningful impact and exemplifies Nightingale’s Core 7 values.
The Recognition of Service Award was presented to Jonathan Tanner, Chief Growth Officer and dedicated former board member and foundation founder. Over the years, Jonathan’s leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment have helped shaped the Foundation’s direction and impact. His service has gone far beyond governance, offering strategic guidance, advocacy, and unwavering support. With deep gratitude, the Foundation recognizes Jonathan’s invaluable contributions, thoughtful stewardship, and the legacy he leaves through his board service. From the very beginning, Jonathan played a critical role in getting the Foundation off the ground. He was instrumental in securing its 501(c)(3) designation and helped establish key programs that laid the groundwork for future successes. A behind-the-scenes champion, Jonathan’s efforts were part of the Foundation’s success and would not have been possible without his dedication and support.
The Foundation was proud to celebrate the individuals — each surprised by their awards — and organization whose leadership continue to drive its mission forward. These achievements serve as powerful reminders of what’s possible when passionate people create lasting impacts and have a growth mindset to support healthcare education across the nation.