Adirondack Health Celebrates 2025 Nursing Award Honorees

Adirondack Health Celebrates 2025 Nursing Award Honorees

Adirondack Health honored two exceptional nurses during its 2025 Nursing Awards ceremony in December, celebrating the compassion, skill and professionalism that define nursing excellence across the region.

Ulrich Receives Meghan E. Handler Excellence in Nursing Award

Dustin Ulrich, RN, received the 2025 Meghan E. Handler Excellence in Nursing Award for his professionalism, empathy and commitment to continuous learning. A 2023 graduate of North Country Community College, Ulrich began on the medical-surgical unit before transitioning to the intensive care unit, where he continues to expand his skills and positively influence patient care.

Known for his quiet determination and thoughtful approach, Ulrich pairs strong clinical ability with deeply compassionate care. The award, established by Dr. Richard and Leslie Handler in memory of their daughter, Meghan, honors early-career nurses who show exceptional growth and rapport with patients and colleagues.

“Dustin represents the best of what it means to be a nurse—skilled, kind and always striving to provide the highest quality of care,” said Carrie Reardon, chief nursing officer.

Mader Honored With Nursing Legacy Award

The Nursing Legacy Award—established by Adirondack Health Foundation board member Joan Grabe, RN—recognizes a nurse with more than 15 years of distinguished service, leadership and mentorship. This year’s honoree, Dave Mader, RN, has shaped Adirondack Health’s nursing culture for more than three decades.

Since joining the organization in 1990, Mader has served in nearly every major nursing role, including critical care, dialysis, clinical education, patient care leadership and chief nursing officer. Now serving as clinical documentation improvement specialist, he remains a steady source of guidance and support for nurses at all stages of their careers.

Colleagues describe Mader as calm, thoughtful and deeply trusted mentor whose influence is reflected across programs, leadership teams and the culture of teamwork within the nursing division.

“Dave has shaped generations of nurses in this organization,” Reardon said. “His wisdom, humility and unwavering commitment to compassionate care represent the very best of Adirondack Health.”

Together, the Meghan E. Handler Excellence in Nursing Award and the Nursing Legacy Award reflect the full continuum of nursing excellence at Adirondack Health—from emerging professionals to established leaders whose careers have elevated care throughout the Adirondacks.

Both awards are supported through endowed funds held by the Adirondack Health Foundation, ensuring these recognitions endure for generations.

For more information about supporting nursing excellence at Adirondack Health, visit adirondackhealthfoundation.org/endowments, call 518-897-2370, or email Foundation@adirondackhealth.org.