October 9, 2006

Patricia Brooks, a Registered Nurse at the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital, has been named to the Michigan Institute for Nursing Excellence, Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) Director Janet Olszewski announced today.

"We are extremely proud that Patricia has been recognized by the Institute for her tireless efforts on behalf of her patients," Olszewski said. "She is an excellent example of the great work being done at the hospital."

Each year, 30 individuals are chosen from a large field of nominees. Sponsored by the Michigan Center for Nursing, the Institute focuses on developing nursing leadership and recognizes applicants displaying leadership skills within their positions.

"Ms. Brooks epitomizes the kind of nurse we want to invest in for future leadership," said Jeanette Klemczak, Michigan's Chief Nurse Executive. "She brings excellence in patient care, quality and safety to the state's mental health system."

The Institute for Nursing Excellence is a 3 ½ day retreat-style program designed to reward excellent direct-care nurses, retain them in the profession, enhance their ability to be role models, and help them to attract others into the field of nursing. Attendees at previous institutes speak positively of the experience, and infuse a spirit of positive change among their colleagues.

Ms. Brooks began her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant and then went on to attend Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) School. In 1990, she began working for the State of Michigan as an LPN at the Southgate Regional Center. While working there, she attended Henry Ford Community College, and in 1998, she received her Associate's Degree in Nursing. Now an RN, Ms. Brooks worked at Mound Road Correctional Facility before transferring to the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital.

Ms. Brooks was recommended for this honor by Dr. Cynthia Archer-Gift. Located in Westland, the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital is an accredited facility for the care of severely mentally ill adults. Ms. Brooks is a member of the National Black Nurses Association, the American Nurses Association, and the Michigan Nurses Association. She is also a First Lieutenant and serves in the US Army Nurse Corps Reserves.

To learn more about nursing careers in Michigan, please visit http://www.michigancenterfornursing.org/about.cfm.