The Nursing Excellence Award goes to a member who makes a difference to advanced practice psychiatric nursing, the mental health profession, and/or the clients we serve. Their contribution, which goes beyond the confines of the organization, may be in the areas of client care, education, leadership, advocacy, public policy, or research.
Graham Patrick, who recently retired, had a long and accomplished career. A pioneer in the advanced practice psychiatric nursing community, Graham played a vital role in starting the PMHNP program at Seattle University. He encouraged the welcoming of non-nurses to the profession through accelerated immersion programs, currently known at SU as APNI.
He also met a critical need for psychiatric providers on the Peninsula in his past work at Kitsap Mental Health and in his private practice. After shifting his role to spend more time in clinical practice, he remained an important advocate for PMHNP education by regularly mentoring students through preceptorship. He was known for his commitment in not just helping students get their hours, but in providing high-quality mentorship.
In addition to his practice and mentorship, Graham also found time to volunteer for AAPPN. Most recently he was chair of the AAPPN Peninsula Chapter.
Thank you, Graham, for everything you’ve done for the profession and for AAPPN!