News from the University Hospital at Downstate
June 2026

A Message from Balavenkatesh Kanna, M.D., MPH, FACP, FACHE,
Chief Executive Officer, University Hospital at Downstate (UHD),
Vice President of Hospital Affairs

Joint Commission Survey: Thank You To Everyone

On behalf of the University Hospital at Downstate Senior Leadership Team, thank you for the extraordinary commitment, preparation, professionalism, and teamwork demonstrated throughout our Joint Commission survey last month.

During their visit, the Surveyors witnessed our WECARE values in action — not only in the exceptional care provided to our patients, but also in the respect, collaboration, and compassion shown among colleagues across the hospital. They saw a team deeply committed to patient safety, accountability, service excellence, and one another.

We are incredibly proud of the way the Downstate community came together during this important process. Every interaction, every effort behind the scenes, and every moment of support contributed to showcasing the strength and dedication that define Downstate Health.

That spirit did not go unnoticed. During both the opening session and the exit conference, the lead Joint Commission Surveyor specifically shared her appreciation for the welcoming experience she received at Downstate. She highlighted the courtesy, professionalism, and personalized support extended throughout the visit — a reflection of the culture each of you helps create every day. While these moments may seem small, they speak volumes about who we are as an institution and as a team.

As we move into the next phase of this work, we recognize that opportunities remain to strengthen our processes and address areas requiring continued attention. Together, we will build on the progress we have made by completing necessary corrective actions, reinforcing compliance, and sustaining our readiness for future Joint Commission surveys. As part of our journey toward becoming a high-reliability organization, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous readiness—one that supports excellence, safety, and accountability every day.

Most importantly, our commitment to quality and patient safety extends far beyond survey preparation. The work we do each day ensures that we deliver the highest standard of care to our patients and serve our Downstate community with excellence and compassion. Thank you for your dedication, resilience, and partnership as we continue moving our institution forward. We are deeply grateful for all that you do to provide exceptional care and improve the health and well-being of those we serve.

Celebrating the Heart of Downstate Health During Hospital Week

Nurses Week 2026: The Year of the Power of Nurses

Opening Ceremony

Our Nurses Week 2026 celebration began with an inspiring and memorable Opening Ceremony that truly reflected this year’s theme: “The Year of the Power of the Nurses.”

The ceremony featured special remarks from our Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Cheryl Rolston, DNP, MA, RN, NE-BC, and I was honored to recognize the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and resilience demonstrated by our nursing team every day. The Nursing team was also honored by the heartfelt convocation delivered by Reverend Sharon Walker, which set a meaningful tone for the week’s celebration.

A highlight of the event was the appearance of our honorary guest speaker, the Honorable Mercedes Narcisse, R.N., a registered nurse and member of the New York City Council representing Brooklyn’s 46th Council District, which includes Bergen Beach, Canarsie, Flatlands, and neighboring communities. Her inspiring words reminded us of the tremendous impact nurses have within our communities and healthcare system.

We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who participated and helped make the Nurses Week kick-off both successful and memorable. Your enthusiasm and support truly showcased the strength and unity of our nursing community.

Attendees also enjoyed the premiere of our 2026 Nurses Week video, beautifully captures the spirit, passion, and power of nursing excellence across our organization.

Take a look and celebrate with us by viewing the Nurses Week video through the YouTube link below!

Spiritual Wellness During Nurses Week

During Nurses Week, the Department of Pastoral/Spiritual Care presented “Spiritual Wellness: The Power of the Well Nurse – Pause, Play, Plant, Paint & Replenish.”

The Department of Nursing Services extends sincere gratitude to Rev. Sharon Walker and the Spiritual Care team for creating a meaningful and memorable experience focused on mindfulness, relaxation, and renewal. Staff members enjoyed opportunities to unwind through planting, painting, and other wellness activities designed to refresh the mind, body, and spirit.
Year after year, Rev. Walker and her team continue to inspire and uplift our staff through thoughtful and engaging experiences that truly make a lasting impact.

The Department of Pastoral/Spiritual Care presents:  
Spiritual Wellness The Power of the “Well Nurse”: Pause, Play, Plant, Paint & Replenish

17th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Oral Poster Presentations: The Year of the Power of Nurses

As part of our Nurses Week 2026 celebration, the Department of Nursing Services proudly led and hosted the 17th Annual Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice Oral Poster Presentations, in collaboration with the College of Nursing. This outstanding event reflected this year’s Nurses Week theme, “The Year of the Power of Nurses,” and highlighted the strength of nursing leadership, scholarship, innovation, and professional collaboration.

The Department of Nursing Services continues to champion nursing research and evidence-based practice as essential components in advancing patient care, improving clinical outcomes, and strengthening the nursing profession. By bringing together nursing professionals, educators, and future nurse leaders, this collaborative initiative demonstrated how nursing inquiry and clinical excellence continue to shape the future of healthcare.

We were honored to welcome our guest speaker, Redetha Abrahams-Nichols, DNP, MPA, RN, UUP Chapter President, whose inspiring remarks emphasized the importance of empowering nurses through leadership, advocacy, education, and research.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of engaging and impactful presentations focused on improving patient care and safety, including:

• Patient Experience Initiatives
• CAUTI Prevention Strategies
• Fall Reduction Efforts
• Hypoglycemia Process Improvement & Patient Safety
• Aromatherapy Research as a Non-Pharmacological Intervention to Reduce Pain, Anxiety, and Opioid Use

These presentations showcased just a few of the innovative and evidence-based initiatives being led by nursing professionals to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

The event also featured exciting Nurses Week mystery surprise winners, bringing moments of fun and celebration to an already inspiring program. Congratulations to all of our winners and participants who helped make the event educational, engaging, and memorable.

The Department of Nursing Services extends sincere appreciation to all presenters, attendees, nursing leadership, faculty, staff, and the College of Nursing for contributing to the success of this meaningful event. Through collaboration, research, and innovation, our nurses continue to lead the way in transforming healthcare.

Together, we continue to demonstrate that the power of nurses lies not only in compassionate care, but also in the research, evidence-based practice, and leadership that drive excellence across our organization and beyond.

Older Adult Preparedness Workshop Equips Brooklyn Seniors with Life-Saving Emergency Readiness Skills

In May, SUNY Downstate Emergency Preparedness, in collaboration with The Brooklyn Coalition and community partners, hosted an Older Adult Preparedness Workshop for older adults, caregivers, and community members across Brooklyn. Conducted as part of a NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene community resilience outreach deliverable, the event focused on preparedness, safety education, resilience, and community engagement for our Older Adult population.

Participants rotated through interactive stations covering emergency go-bag planning, fire and lithium battery safety, emergency communications, transportation and pedestrian safety, home safety, civic and community resources, and life-saving bleeding control techniques. A major highlight was the completion of four full Stop the Bleed training classes, with participants receiving official certificates supported through the American College of Surgeons. Many attendees shared that this was their first formal emergency preparedness or hands-on emergency response training experience.

Partner participation was central to the event’s success. NYC Emergency Management supported go-bag education; FDNY and Kings County Hospital supported fire safety and Stop the Bleed instruction; NYC Health + Hospitals led the Emergency Communications station; NYC DOT Transportation Safety Division provided older adult mobility and pedestrian safety resources; NYC Civic Engagement shared community service and civic participation information; and NYU Langone Health led Disaster Bingo, a highly engaging preparedness education activity.

The workshop also benefited from strong operational, outreach, and registration support from SUNY Downstate University Police, the Office of Government Affairs, Volunteer Services, Wyckoff Medical Center, Senator Zellnor Myrie’s office, the Pediatric Disaster Coalition, Northwell Health, and The Brooklyn Hospital Center. Guests enjoyed both breakfast and lunch, helping create a welcoming environment for attendees.

Through hands-on education, partner collaboration, and community outreach, the workshop strengthened emergency readiness and reinforced the importance of coalition-based preparedness programming for Brooklyn’s older adult population.

Employee (Team) of the Month for May 2026 – Staff of Suite H

Below is a testimonial from a grateful patient highlighting the invaluable contributions of our team in Suite H, our May 2026 Employee (Team) of the Month. We extend our sincere gratitude for your dedication, professionalism, and continued commitment to excellence. Thank you to Suite H, for all that you do to support Downstate and our mission.

I had an appointment on March 27, 2026, my approximate time was much earlier than my appointed time 3 pm, but I decided to stay, I was triaged and found that my blood pressure was very high, needless to say the staff was very concerned and supportive making sure I got the proper care I was taken to the ER where I chose not to stay but I just wanted to thank the staff of SUITE H for their kindness, care, and professionalism. I also want to say GREAT JOB and I felt like they should be recognized for a job well done, this includes the following staff members

• Mahmoud Awad, M.D.
• RN Charge Nurse, Yvette Dolly
• Registered Nurses: Lisa Noel and Gayle Noel and Nursing Assistant: Angela Gray
• Manager, Natalie Baker
• Registrar, Sheneza Hunter

UHD Acknowledges

June

• June 19th: World Sickle Cell Day
• June 27th: National HIV Testing Day
• Men’s Health Month
• Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
• Migraine and Headache Awareness Month
• PTSD Awareness Month

July

• July 8th: International Paramedics Day
• July 28th: World Hepatitis Day
• Juvenile Arthritis Month
• National Park & Recreation Month
• UV Awareness Month

August

• August 23rd: Health Unit Coordinator Day
• August 30th: National Grief Awareness Day
• August 2nd -8th: National Health Center Week
• National Immunization Awareness Month
• National Breastfeeding Month
• Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month