Show-Me State Times

Four educators from the Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing at Saint Louis University have been honored with the 2025 Excellence in Nursing Award by St. Louis Magazine. This accolade highlights their contributions to teaching, research, and mentorship in the field of nursing.

In February, five finalists were selected from SLU’s nursing school for their commitment to advancing healthcare education. The nominees included Geralyn Ochs, Michelle Papachrisanthou, Diana Llamas, Melissa Holman, and Kristin Keller. After a thorough review process by a panel of judges, four winners were announced at an awards reception on June 4 at the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Geralyn Ochs was recognized in the Acute Care/Family Practice/General Medicine category. She has taught at SLU for 33 years and was instrumental in developing Missouri's first acute care nurse practitioner program. Her involvement in national and international conferences emphasizes her impact on the field.

Michelle Papachrisanthou received recognition in Administration for her leadership as associate dean of graduate nursing education. Her efforts have expanded SLU’s graduate programs and refined its curriculum. "Driven by a passion for growth and excellence," she is committed to shaping future graduate nursing education.

Diana Llamas was acknowledged in Community/Ambulatory Care. Originally from Peru, she focuses on reducing health disparities among Hispanic communities in St. Louis while also working to expand global health opportunities through SLU’s Madrid campus.

Kristin Keller was honored in Oncology for her work on symptom management and improving cancer patients' quality of life during treatment. She has been noted for her contributions to nursing science and education.

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is known for its rigorous education rooted in Jesuit values, challenging students to contribute positively to society.