The Friends of Nursing program has honored Lehigh Valley Health Network nursing colleagues for providing exceptional care to patients as well as within their the community for over 25 years.

The program awards funding that colleagues may use to further their education, promote professional development while enhancing patient care through nurse-led research.The following are the local recipients honored with the 2016 Friends of Nursing Award:The Medical Staff Medical- Surgical Award: Debra Schweitzer, BSN, RN, CMSRN- 5K, of Lehighton.The Medical Staff Administrative Partner Award: Amy Rehrig, Health Center at Bangor, of Lehighton.Award for Excellence as a Nurse Preceptor: Judith Baker, MSN, RN, CEN,- Emergency Department LVH- Cedar Crest, of Orwigsburg.Award for Excellence in the delivery of Ambulatory Care: Janet Haines, BSN, RN, CORN- Endoscopy Services, of Slatington.