Congratulations to Rusty Maraman, Ortho/Rehab manager at UAB St. Vincent’s East, for earning a DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award. He serves as a shining example of dedication, compassion, and excellence in nursing. Rusty’s career journey has spanned decades and left an indelible mark on every team, patient, and colleague who’s been fortunate enough to work alongside him.
The DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award was created by The DAISY Foundation to recognize nurses who have devoted their careers to the compassionate care of others. Recipients of this award are nominated for their dedication to nursing through active mentoring, serving as role models, advocating for their patients, and promoting a positive image of nursing. They serve as beacons of inspiration to those at all stages of their career and in the various and important roles of nursing.
Throughout his incredible nursing career, Rusty has demonstrated flexibility, a desire to learn, and a willingness to take on new challenges. He embodies the proverb, “Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not get bent out of shape.”
Rusty has served as manager of the SICU, CVICU/CV Stepdown Unit, Neuro ICU, the Orthopedic Unit, and the Rehab Unit, in addition to many other roles. He even served all nurses in the state through his work with the Alabama Board of Nursing. Rusty has led with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality patient care. He has consistently cultivated an environment in which safety is not just a priority but deeply embedded in the workplace culture. Under his leadership, nurses felt both supported and empowered to advocate for their patients and one another.
What sets Rusty apart is his ability to lead with both strength and heart. He has built nursing teams that don’t just work well together – they thrive. They are inspired by his example, motivated by his trust in them, and grounded in the respect he shows each individual. His team members love and admire him, not just for his clinical expertise and administrative skills but also for how he sees and values each of them as people and professionals.
Over the years, Rusty has mentored countless nurses, many of whom now carry his lessons and leadership style forward in their own careers. He has shown time and again that leadership in nursing is about creating space for others to grow, be heard, and shine.
For his tireless dedication, for building teams rooted in mutual respect and compassion, and for a lifetime spent elevating the nursing profession, we are proud to see Rusty receive a DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award. His legacy is one of safety, strength, and heart, and it will continue to influence and inspire others for generations to come.
The DAISY Award recognizes the extraordinary care and compassion that nurses provide for patients and families every day. Submissions and stories are reviewed each month, and the winner is surprised at a special ceremony. You can nominate a nurse to be honored with The DAISY Award by using this form.