Andrea Olexa Hollingsworth, BSN ’68 awarded 2009 Medallion for Distinguished Contributions to Nursing Education

Villanova, PA, April 18, 2009 — Andrea Olexa Hollingsworth, BSN ’68 was awarded the 2009 College of Nursing Medallion for Distinguished Contributions to Nursing Education at the 20th Annual Mass and Alumni Awards Ceremony April 18th in the St. Thomas of Villanova Church. The Medallion is the College’s highest award, bestowed for distinguished achievement. In the photo, she is joined by Dean Fitzpatrick and University President Rev. Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A. 

Her citation follows:
A genuine commitment to the education of future nurses underscores the career of Dr. Andrea Olexa Hollingsworth.

A graduate of Villanova University’s baccalaureate nursing program, Andi began her career caring for mothers and infants in Philadelphia. As a passionate advocate for the health care of women and children, particularly those with limited resources, those in need of home care follow up and those with special health care concerns, she was instrumental in elevating the standards of care for these groups in the Philadelphia area.

Early in her career she began working toward her lifelong dream of influencing the lives of those who chose nursing as a career. She has taught in several nursing programs in Philadelphia, including Holy Family College, the University of Pennsylvania, where she received the excellence in teaching award for her innovative approaches to nursing education, and of course her alma mater, Villanova.

Dr. Hollingsworth returned to Villanova University in 1991 as Director of the Undergraduate Nursing Program, and, for the next ten years, she influenced the direction of undergraduate nursing education here. She developed a reputation as a master teacher and a role model for faculty and future nurse educators.

In 2001, Dr. Hollingsworth became Dean and Professor at Gwynedd Mercy College School of Nursing, where she continues to have a profound impact on those who choose nursing as a career.

She provides leadership in many professional organizations and recently completed a term as president of PHENSA, The Pennsylvania Higher Education Nursing Schools Association.

It is a well known fact that humor has a positive effect on one’s health. Through her marvelous sense of humor, Andi has had a positive effect on all whom she encounters in the classroom, the clinical practice setting even in faculty meetings and especially at Villanova basketball games.

For her outstanding contributions to nursing education, and for her commitment to the mission and values of Villanova University, the College of Nursing is proud to award its 2009 Medallion for Distinguished Contributions to Nursing Education to an alumna, former director of the undergraduate nursing program, and committed Wildcat: Dr. Andrea Hollingsworth.