OLEAN — Olean General Hospital and Bradford Regional Medical Center announce Rachal Lundy, RN, float pool, OGH, has been awarded the second quarter Nightingale Award of 2025.

Lundy has been part of the OGH nursing team for over a decade, starting her career as a nurse assistant in 2012. She transitioned as a registered nurse in 2021 after earning her nursing degree from Jamestown Community College.

“Rachel is known for going above and beyond for her patients, consistently ensuring every need is met with compassion and excellence. Her positive, can-do attitude and willingness to step in wherever she’s needed makes her a true team player and a trusted colleague,” read her nomination. “Her peers describe her as someone who brings reassurance and energy to every shift, setting a high standard through her dedication, reliability and commitment to both her patients and her team.”

The Nightingale Award is a result of nominations from medical providers and other team members throughout BRMC and OGH. The prestigious award is presented quarterly to one nurse who provides exceptional patient care, excels in patient and family teaching, creates an environment of efficient open communication with patients and serves as a role model for peers. As noted through her multiple nominations, Lundy has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a Nightingale Award recipient. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at St. Bonaventure University, furthering her commitment to excellence in patient care.

“I became a nurse because I’ve always had a heart for caring for others. Starting as a CNA only expanded that passion and led me to become a registered nurse. What I love most is forming genuine connections with my patients, working at a small community hospital like OGH gives me the chance to truly get to know the people I care for,” said Lundy. “OGH is more than a workplace; it’s a close-knit community where co-workers become family. I’m proud to be part of such a compassionate team.”

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and making memories with her three children.

BRMC and OGH named the nursing award after Florence Nightingale, who laid the groundwork for the philosophy and underpinnings of modern-day nursing. Throughout Florence Nightingale’s career she displayed qualities such as integrity, nursing excellence, compassion and service.

Other nominees included James Adams, RN; Brandy Nolder, BSN, RN; Frances Perez, BSN, RN; Jessie Carlson, RN; Kerri Deming, RN; Logan Drain, RN; Alicea Nickerson, RN; Karen Prosser, RN; Michele Snyder, LPN; Mark Thornton, RN; and Kristyn Wilber, RN.

Lundy will be honored alongside her fellow Nightingale Award winners at the third annual Pulse of the Community Gala, held Friday, Sept. 19 at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville.