Albuquerque Public Schools honored a nurse who served nearly 40 years for her decades of supporting student health and wellness.
The New Mexico School Nurses Association presented Deborah Hill with the Marlene McDowell Distinguished Service Award during its annual conference in Red River in June. Hill is APS’s resource nurse for chronic health.
Hill said the recognition she received humbled her. “Receiving this award is both humbling and deeply meaningful as I near the close of nearly 40 years in nursing, public health and spiritual care,” Hill said. “This recognition reflects not just my work, but the work of my colleagues and the impact of students and families who have shaped and inspired me throughout my career.”
The association cited Hill’s evidence-based guidance to APS and her contribution to the New Mexico Department of Health.
Cheri Brubaker, executive director of Nursing Services at APS, cited Hill as having had an “incredibly positive impact” on students and fellow nurses. She credited Hill with updating the APS Nursing Manual and contributing to the revisions of the state’s School Health Manual and diabetes order set. “She is perpetually striving to find ways to serve better the students and families in the state,” Brubaker said. “She has served and continues to serve with distinction.”
The Marlene McDowell Distinguished Service Award recognizes registered school nurses who advocate for children’s health care access and promote student well-being.
Hill previously worked at Bandelier Elementary. Collaboration and service have defined her career, she said. “I have valued supporting fellow nurses and building connections across New Mexico to strengthen student care,” she said. “Supporting the health and well-being of children, families and vulnerable communities and collaborating with others has truly been the heart of my work.”