2025 NURSES WEEK AWARD NOMINEES

Lifetime Achievement Award

Ms. Sunita Bhandari is a Medicare-enrolled Family Nurse Practitioner based in Woodmere, New York.

Ms. Bhandari is the founding president of NANA and has demonstrated unwavering dedication and service to the organization since its inception. Her visionary leadership and tireless commitment have played a critical role in shaping NANA’s growth and impact over the years.

In addition to her organizational leadership, Ms. Bhandari has mentored countless clinical nurses, nurse clinicians, and emerging nurse leaders. Her guidance and support have helped elevate nursing practice and leadership within the community.

Ms. Bhandari’s enduring contributions to NANA and the broader healthcare community exemplify the spirit of this award. I wholeheartedly believe she is a most deserving candidate for this distinguished honor. 

 Exemplary Leadership Award

Since, joining as a Life Member of NANA, Dr. Pudasainee-Kapri has served in many roles at NANA including Keynote Speaker and presenter during NANA seminars, executive team member (2020-2022), President (2022-2024), and advisor (2024-2026).

Under her leadership at NANA, her team generated funding to promote research/Evidence-based practice (EBP) and scholarship funds to support NANA nurses in the United States. As a result, NANA awarded four awards (two scholarship awards and two research/EBP awards $500 each) in 2024/25 to support NANA nurses pursuing advanced education in nursing. Along with offering multiple virtual webinars, continuing education opportunities, and annual nursing seminars, four sub-committees were formed to enhance the quality services to Nepali Nurses and NANA members in different areas of enhancement including mentorship for advancing nursing education, transitioning to clinical practice for RNs and APRNs, Next-gen NCLEX-preparation, and obtaining licenses and certifications.

In her current role as Advisor of NANA, she has committed to mentor and advise the new president and leaders to sustain the legacy and cultural heritage of NANA.

The things Dr. Pudasainee-Kapri has done for not only NANA but also the healthcare community makes her the deserving candidate for this award. 

 Community Service Award

Ms. Nima Sherpa has been a life member of NANA since 2018. She has served in various capacities within NANA, including Assistant Secretary, Secretary, and Vice-President. In these roles, she has dedicated significant time and effort to NANA and our community through volunteering and other notable contributions. She is one of the nurses who is always present and ready to volunteer during any NANA health fair and activities.

Ms. Sherpa has assisted many new nurses and those transitioning from Nepal to the United States with the CGFNS process. She continues to actively engage in community activities in collaboration with NANA and other Nepalese organizations.

Her persistent commitment to aiding others sets her apart and makes her worthy of this recognition.

Excellence in Mentorship Award

Since joining as a Life Member of NANA, Ms. Amatya has served in many roles at NANA including presenter during NANA seminars, Vice President (2016- 2018, and 2018-2020).

Ms. Amatya has consistently demonstrated compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of nurses. She has served as a trusted guide and role model for students, new graduates, and experienced nurses alike. Her ability to foster meaningful connections, provide constructive feedback, and tailor guidance to individual learning needs has left a lasting impact on countless mentees.