Officials with the Cass County Health System (CCHS) report Peggy Perkins, R.N., was among the honorees named in the 100 Great Iowa Nurses program this year. Patients, colleagues, and nurse leaders nominated more than 350 nurses across the state for this prestigious award. The honored nurses are recognized for their outstanding courage, competence, and commitment to patients and the nursing profession.

Peggy Perkins, RN (Photo submitted)

Perkins graduated from the Iowa Methodist School of Nursing in Des Moines in 1973. After graduation, she worked in many areas of nursing including ICU, ER and House Supervision. Her expertise is in cardiac nursing, and Peggy has worked in this specialty for more than 35 years. She previously worked at Clarke County Hospital in Osceola, and has been the Director of Cardiac Rehab at Cass County Memorial Hospital since 2011.

Alison Bruckner, Chief Operating Officer of Cass County Health System said “Peggy is not only a great nurse – she’s a strong leader, a compassionate friend, an experienced teacher, and an amazing resource for others. We are thrilled to see her recognized for her work and character.”

Each year, the 100 Great Iowa Nurses are honored at a ceremony, created for the state of Iowa by nurse and community leaders. This year’s 100 Great Iowa Nurses will be honored on May 3, 2015 – the beginning of Nurses Week – at the 11th annual celebration in Des Moines.

Nurses selected for the honor represent many sectors of health care, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and school and office nurses. This is a statewide event that belongs to the people of Iowa, and is made possible through the generous support of sponsors. Similar celebrations are held in Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas.