DOM doctor, two nurses honored by nurses for National Nurses Week

Banner – University Medicine Tucson nurses chose to single out Amy Klein, MD, an associate professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine, Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine (GGP) and palliative medicine medical director across Banner’s Tucson market, as their 2026 “Friend of Nursing Honoree.”

The award was among several National Nurses Week recognitions presented by Beth Draves, MBA, BSN, RN, the chief nursing officer for Banner – University Medicine Tucson, during a ceremony May 5 in the lobby of Banner – University Medical Center Tucson.

“I am a staunch advocate that true interdisciplinary patient care is the best patient care. I know my patients do best when every member of the team is lifted up, valued and empowered to work together,” Dr. Klein said of her honor.

“The Friend of Nursing Award is incredibly meaningful to me because nurses are truly the lifeblood of our hospital. Throughout my career, I’ve learned so much from nurses about the value of presence, honoring patients’ control and autonomy, and showing up even when it’s tough. To have that support recognized by our nurses, and to continue working alongside them to improve care and strengthen the systems that serve our patients, is an incredible honor.”

Multiple Department of Medicine and GGP division faculty and staff were present to congratulate Dr. Klein, who was unaware she was an awardee, including the GGP division’s Mindy Fain, MD (chief), Jennifer Plitt, MD, Indu Partha, MD, Serena Scott, MD, MBA, Nancy Mitchell, MSW, Jason Toone, and Lizette Cota, and DOM administrator Phetcharat “Pat” Chen, PhD.  

Other people recognized and their National Nursing Week awards were:

• Allison Belter, BSN, RN, SCRN, clinical stroke program manager/senior nurse, Division of Cardiology | Clinical Expert: Registered Nurse, Spring 2026 award, for having achieved specialty certification as a stroke certified registered nurse
• Betsy Zidel, RN, kidney living donor transplant coordinator, Division of Nephrology | Contribution to Society Award, in honor of her exceptional work in volunteer activities and community service
• Robert Johnston, RN, MS, MBA, FNP-BC | Contribution to Profession Honoree, in appreciation of everything he does that embodies teamwork, ethical conduct, knowledge-seeking and professionalism
• Elizabeth McCraw, RN | Contribution to Patients Honoree, in recognition of her contributions to providing and promoting excellent patient care
• Beth Draves, MBA, BSN, RN, Banner – UMC Tucson Chief Nursing Officer | Contribution to Nursing Leadership Honoree, in recognition of her dedication in directing and administering the day-to-day operations of direct patient care activities and clinical education and development across Banner’s Tucson market

Draves’ award was presented to her by Alison Flynn Gaffney, FACHE, chief executive officer of Banner – UMC Tucson and Banner – UMC South hospitals.

Regarding Zidel’s recognition, Venki Ariyamuthu, MD, a professor in the Division of Nephrology and pancreas and kidney transplant medical director for Banner in Tucson, said, “Some people bring skill to their work. Others bring heart. Betsy brings both — every single day.”

ALSO SEE:
“Tucson Village Farm cook-off builds camaraderie among physicians, residents” | Posted Nov. 5, 2025
“DOM faculty celebration lauds achievements of newly promoted” | Posted Oct. 14, 2025
“GGP Division singles out three for inaugural awards event” | June 9, 2025
“New DOM awards honor 20 faculty members in 2025” | Posted June 5, 2025

(Photos courtesy of David Mogollon, DOM communications manager)

For additional photos from the event, click here.

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