Dr. Angela Coladonato receives Medallion for Excellence in the Administration of Health Care Services
Dr. Angela Coladonato (center) received the College of Nursing Medallion from Associate Dean Dr. Lesley Perry. They are seen here with University President Rev. Peter Donohue, OSA who presided at the Mass on April 29, 2017.
The achievements of Angela R. Coladonato ’77 BSN, DNP were celebrated on April 29 during the College of Nursing’s 28th Annual Mass and Alumni Awards Ceremony, held in the St. Thomas of Villanova Church.
Lesley Perry, PhD, RN, associate dean, bestowed the College’s highest award, the Medallion, to her for Excellence in the Administration of Health Care Services. She is senior vice president and chief nursing officer for Penn Medicine's Chester County Hospital in West Chester, Pa.
Dr. Coladonato's citation follows:
Dr Angela Coladonato, is the Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Chester County Hospital, now part of the University of Pennsylvania medical system, a position she has held for over 10 years.
Her story is one of continuous growth and progression as a nursing leader and administrator whose business acumen has significantly influenced the delivery of excellent patient care.
After her graduation from our College of Nursing in 1977, Angela practiced as a staff nurse at Lankenau Medical Center, rising through the organization to Staff Development Coordinator, Nurse Manager and eventually Vice President of Nursing and Operations. Returning to school, she earned her master’s degree from Widener and more recently her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Thomas Jefferson University.
Since assuming her current position at Chester County Hospital, she has developed important programs and systems, of which “Prism” is an example. It recognizes experience, skill, and merit for excellent nursing care within the context of a horizontal clinical ladder that rewards nurses without requiring that they move up an administrative ladder for tangible recognition. It values expert care at the bedside.
Under Angela’s guidance, a shared governance model was implemented with councils that empowered nurses to take authority and responsibility for their practice to the extent of their ability and education while minimizing bureaucratic obstacles. She also fostered the hospital's path to gaining Magnet Status and was recognized by the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority for her work on patient sitters which increased their safety. It increased staff, patient and family satisfaction while reducing hospital costs.
Angela is a strong leader known for her integrity. She is a model for young leaders whom she mentors. Her stellar performance reflects who she is and her commitment to improved patient care.
The College of Nursing is privileged to award its 2017 Medallion for Excellence in the Administration of Nursing and Health Care to Dr. Angela Coladonato, Villanova Class of 1977.