Two RNs to Celebrate!
Meet the recipients of the 2025 APNA Memorial Scholarship, awarded annually to outstanding psychiatric-mental health nurses who demonstrate a strong commitment to psychiatric-mental health nursing through their:
- Participation in organizational improvement that positively impacts patient care
- Pursuit of activities to continuously improve skills and knowledge-base
- Demonstrated impact on improving the mental health care field
Stacy Horowitz, MSN, RN, PMH-BC, CARN
Registered Nurse
Penn Medicine Princeton House Behavioral Health
“As a PMH nurse, I am motivated by the chance to break down barriers, promote understanding, and offer the support necessary for individuals to live fulfilling lives. My goal is not only to provide clinical care but also to empower patients by creating an environment where they feel seen, heard, and understood.”
Melissa Otte, BSN, RN, PMH-BC
Clinical Resource Nurse
Mayo Clinic
“From the very beginning of nursing school, I knew that I wanted to be a psychiatric nurse. I have a passion for working with the unique patient population and care environment. I am constantly excited by the creativity that is needed to work through the nuances of patient care in an inpatient psychiatric setting.”
The 2025 scholarship provides these APNA members practicing at the RN level with complimentary registration, travel, and lodging to the APNA 39th Annual Conference on October 15-18, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
This scholarship is made possible by donations to the APNA Memorial Fund in remembrance of APNA members who made an enduring impact on PMH nurses and those they serve. This year’s scholars were funded by donations made in memory of Beverly Ann Benfer, Lucille Gambardella, Judith J. Jaheriss, Karlene Kerfoot, and Marlene Nadler-Moodie.
Published July 2025
