Downstate Marks Dr. Pat Winston’s Transition to the College of Nursing

By Office of the President | Mar 31, 2026

I had the pleasure of hosting a lively celebration in honor of Patricia A. Winston, DNP, MS, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, celebrating her outstanding leadership and lasting contributions to University Hospital at Downstate as she steps into an exciting new role with the College of Nursing.

Several hundred well-wishers gathered in The Commons on Monday, March 23, 2026. Family members joined by livestream, extending the moment beyond the room. The afternoon recognized Dr. Winston’s impact in leadership, clinical operations, academic advancement, and community service. Colleagues and partners recognized a career grounded in discipline, compassion, and commitment to Downstate’s mission.

A video tribute traced Dr. Winston’s path into nursing, shaped by her mother’s example and a clear sense of purpose, which carried through her leadership, guiding how she cared for patients and led teams.

At University Hospital, Dr. Winston led with steadiness and clarity, serving twice as interim chief executive officer. This distinction reflects the institution’s trust in during periods that required strength, stability, sound judgment, and effective leadership. She guided hospital operations with focus and consistency, ensured continuity of care, and supported the workforce responsible for delivering it.

Her leadership proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Downstate was named exclusively as a COVID-only hospital. She strengthened coordination across clinical teams and supported frontline staff under sustained pressure.

During this time, she also earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, reflecting her commitment to growth and life-long education.

The program also highlighted her personal impact. Her granddaughter, Laurel Winston, shared a reflection on growing up watching her grandmother work, study, lead, and persevere, always seeing possibilities. She described how that example shaped her belief that anything is within reach. Dr. Winston reflected on her mother as her first mentor and emphasized teamwork, shared purpose, and service to others.

Colleagues presented Dr. Winston with flowers and tokens of recognition, including a crystal plaque thanking her for her service to Downstate, as well as a Louis Vuitton–themed cake offered as a lighthearted nod to her signature style.

Dr. Winston thanked her colleagues, staff, and partners, emphasizing that no one does this work alone. She expressed appreciation for the teams she worked with and the shared commitment to caring for patients and supporting one another. Her transition to the College of Nursing extends her leadership through teaching and mentorship.

Thank you to all who made this wonderful event a reality, including the team from Patient Relations, the Communications & Marketing AV Team for the video presentation, and Team Sodexo for their amazing creativity and service.

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