Recognizing excellence across the School of Nursing
Director, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program’s Nurse Anesthetist Track
Steven S. Kertes, DNP, MSN, RN, was appointed director of the new Doctor of Nursing Practice Program’s Nurse Anesthetist Track. Effective Feb. 3, 2025, the retired Army colonel brought his distinguished background in military medicine, education and research leadership, which includes experience as a consultant to the U.S. Surgeon General for anesthesia nursing and as director of the U.S. Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing.
Reviewer, Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Cynthia O’Neal, PhD, RN, has been selected as a reviewer for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Due to her background in nursing education, extensive practice experience and familiarity with program development and accreditation standards, she will serve the profession by critically evaluating nursing programs.
Nelms-Berg Department Editor Award Journal of Pediatric Health Care
Cathy Woodward, DNP, APRN, CPNP-AC, FNP-B, received the Journal of Pediatric Health Care’s Nelms-Berg Department Editor Award at the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners Annual Conference. The award is presented for excellence in department leadership, reviewer dedication, author mentorship and willingness to contribute to the journal’s mission.
mHealth Scholar NIH-mHealth Training Institute
Jisook Ko, PhD, RN, has been selected as a mHealth Scholar for the NIH-mHealth Training Institute. This opportunity will allow her to develop her expertise in mobile health (mHealth) technologies, methodologies and research practices.
2025 Inductee San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame
Danet Lapiz Bluhm, PhD, RN, MSCI, FAAN, ANEF, professor and director of International Programs was selected as a 2025 inductee into the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame. She was honored for her exceptional leadership in health care and higher education, as well as her longstanding service and advocacy efforts that have positively impacted communities across San Antonio and beyond.
Shining a light on faculty who have been recognized by the San Antonio Nursing Consortium for their excellence in patient care, patient safety, research, leadership, education and community service.
2024 Best 25 Nurses of South Central Texas
James A. Cleveland, PHD, MSN, RN, is a retired U.S. Army Nurse Corps officer with 28 years of service and a distinguished leader in nursing education and simulation. Since joining the School of Nursing in 2009, he has transformed clinical training as director of the Center for Simulation Innovation, earning international accreditation. A passionate mentor, Cleveland champions student success while advancing trauma care, interprofessional education and caregiver support. His leadership in shaping health care education and commitment to veterans and all students exemplifies his dedication to the profession and community.
Deborah Jennings, DNP, MSN, RN, CENP, is a dedicated nurse leader, educator and advocate with over 20 years in nursing experience, including a decade in senior administration. As a clinical assistant professor, she integrates her leadership experience to mentor future nurses and champion health care access. Honored also with a 2024 Texas Nurse Imagemaker Award, she is an enthusiastic advocate for foster youth, community health and policy reform. Through education, service and compassionate caregiving, Jennings exemplifies excellence in nursing, inspiring students to lead with integrity for patient-centered care.
2024 Top 50 Nurses of South Central Texas
Bertha Flores, PhD, APRN, WHNP-BC, is a bilingual and bicultural nurse leader with over 40 years of experience, an associate professor at UT Health San Antonio and a VA program nurse. As a dedicated educator, she has mentored students at all levels while leading initiatives to improve cancer and geriatric care for veterans. As site PI on major cancer-prevention grants, her work has significantly increased screening and vaccination rates in rural communities. Her leadership in translational science, commitment to ethical practice and dedication for mentorship and advocacy make her a distinguished honoree, recognized for her contributions to research, education and health care access.
Rozmin B. Jiwani, PhD, APRN, ACNS-BC, DipACLM, an associate professor and researcher, has dedicated 30 years to nursing, advancing chronic disease management, aging research and mental health interventions. She develops tailored and mobile health solutions to enhance quality of life through behavioral lifestyle interventions worldwide. Since 2020, she has also taught graduate students at Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan. An eager mentor and leader who champions person-centered care, Jiwani has secured major grants and published extensively. Honored for her research and mentorship, she continues shaping health education, lifestyle medicine and innovative interventions that empower patients and students.
Sherry Megerle, MSN, RN, LNCC, is a respected nurse leader and educator known for her clinical expertise, legal nursing insight and professionalism. She serves as treasurer and community service chair of the Philippine Nurses Association of San Antonio, where she leads outreach and Alzheimer’s education initiatives that directly support local communities. Megerle is a skilled mentor and advocate for ethical nursing practice, bridging bedside care, policy and education with compassion and clarity. Whether she’s guiding peers or leading health events, she consistently uplifts the nursing profession. Her poise, integrity and purposeful service make her a powerful force in advancing nursing excellence.
