07/27/2026
Every day, preceptors give generously to our students; they give time, expertise, guidance, and so much more. We established the Notable Preceptor Award to recognize their generosity and the impact it has on our students. This year, the Notable Preceptor Award for graduate programs goes to Denise Cundy, executive vice president for quality and operations at Broadlawns Medical Center in Des Moines.
Jacque Hollingshead, a nurse manager at Mary Greeley Medical Center currently pursuing a DNP in the Health Systems: Administration/Executive Leadership program wrote in her nomination: "Denise exemplifies the very best of nursing executive leadership. She consistently earns the respect of those around her, models compassionate leadership in every interaction, and creates an environment where learning, curiosity, and critical thinking are encouraged and celebrated.
What sets Denise apart is her ability to inspire confidence and motivation in those she mentors. She encouraged me to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and approach challenges with curiosity and purpose. Her example demonstrated how knowledgeable, values-driven leadership can have a powerful and lasting impact on both patient care and professional growth.
Denise's mentorship has influenced my confidence, my critical thinking, and my vision for my future in nursing leadership. I cannot imagine a more deserving recipient of this recognition."
A celebration was held for Denise at Broadlawns in early July.
Photo 1: Jacque Hollingshead, left, and Denise Cundy
Photo 2: Denise and her cake
Photo 3: From left, Angela Melsa Worrell, Jacque Hollingshead, Denise Cundy, Lindell Joseph, and Laura Goddard.
Photo 4: Lindell Joseph, Health Systems program director, and Denise Cundy
