Floyd nurse elected president of NYS Association of School Nurses

Jacki O’Donnell, the lead nurse for the William Floyd School District, was elected to serve as president of the New York State Association of School Nurses (NYSASN) earlier this school year, a professional organization with the mission of advancing the practice of school nursing and enhancing the educational success of students by promoting quality health services.

“Over the course of the past 14 months, school nurses have faced challenges never before seen in school nursing,” said Kevin M. Coster, superintendent of schools, William Floyd School District. “Lead Nurse O’Donnell and her team of highly skilled nurses here at William Floyd continue to demonstrate what we have known all long – their vital importance to our district. They care for our children on a daily basis, are experts in infection control and have become key members of William Floyd’s pandemic response team.”

“As professional colleagues and co-workers, we are so proud and honored to know and work with Jacki O’Donnell,” added Teresa Ergul, Moriches Elementary School nurse, speaking on behalf of her colleagues. “Jacki has been an inspiring and knowledgeable leader who works tirelessly to bring to the district and school nurses the latest state requirements, the newest programs available and state legislation that may affect student health. Jacki has been on the front lines during this pandemic, bringing her knowledge and expertise to district leaders in an effort to keep our community and students healthy and safe.” 

O’Donnell, RN, has served the children and families of the William Floyd School District as a school nurse for the past 27 years, including the last 17 as lead nurse. In addition to her duties supervising a staff of 13 nurses, she coordinates all the health services for the district, conducts trainings, acts as a liaison to the county and state health departments, and is a consultant to the William Floyd community regarding health matters. Previous NYSASN service includes serving as Suffolk County representative, treasurer and newsletter editor. She has also earned numerous accolades for her work including NYSASN’s Judith Harrigan Founder’s Award for “exemplary service to NYSASN and the children of New York State,” the Suffolk County Association of School Nurses “Excellence in School Nursing Award” and the SCOPE Education Services “Support Staff Service Award.”