CENTRALIA – Brenda Kunick, a beloved and highly respected nurse, has been named the recipient of the 2025 DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, recognizing her decades of exceptional service, leadership, and compassion in the nursing profession.

Brenda has dedicated her life to delivering patient-centered care, mentoring future nurses, and uplifting her colleagues. Known as the “mother of the unit,” she is celebrated for her calm leadership, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Brenda’s influence extends far beyond the hospital walls—she mentors high school students, organizes community service projects, and supports staff through personal and professional challenges.

“Brenda is the heart of our team,” said a colleague. “She inspires us to be better nurses and better people. Her legacy is one of love, service, and unwavering dedication.”

Her initiatives include organizing fundraisers, providing meals and care packages for those in need, and leading efforts such as Meals on Wheels, Valentine’s cards for children at Cardinal Glennon, and donations to Ronald McDonald House and local food pantries. Brenda’s faith and compassion are evident in every interaction, offering comfort and hope to patients and colleagues alike.

The DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award honors nurses who have devoted their lives to the compassionate care of others and have made a lasting impact on the nursing profession for more than 25+ years. Brenda Kunick’s career is a shining example of these values. Locally the DAISY Award is sponsored by SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation.

“I am honored to be the recipient of this year’s Daisy Lifetime Award. What a humbling and emotional experience to be awarded this recognition in front of my personal and work family, whom I completely share this prestigious award. I am who I am because of all the people who have taught and supported me along the way. As a former basketball coach and a continued nursing CNA instructor, I always shared the motto that there is no “I” in team. That is also true here. It takes a team at home and a team here at work to make things run smoothly, mentally and physically,” said Brenda. “God has blessed me with the best on both sides. I have always wanted to be a nurse, never anything other than that. There is a calling to this profession. I have tried to remember, even on the worst days, that if this were my mom or dad or Jesus, give care accordingly. After 34 years here, I have seen a lot of changes in healthcare, but one thing for sure that never changes is that the true reality of not knowing what people are going through on a daily basis, whether it be your patients or your coworkers or your family. So, a kind word or smile, or simply praying with them can make a difference. I’d like to encourage others to make a difference, pay it forward. In today’s world, we need this now more than ever. Thank you again for your nominations, it truly means a lot.”

For more information about the DAISY Foundation and its awards, visit www.daisyfoundation.org.