FAIRFIELD, CT - It’s been a good few months for Sacred Heart University Nursing Professor Linda Strong, Ed.D., R.N., of Stratford. She was the recent recipient of an Outstanding Volunteer award from the New England Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) after she was nominated by the Stratford (CT) Department of Health. Strong has long been a volunteer for this civilian group that provides support to local public health departments in times of disaster, such as a flood or epidemic.
MRC volunteers also assist with promotions to create a healthy environment, Strong said. “The Health Department is made up of those public employees who are out in the streets ensuring that restaurants, nail salons, beauty parlors, beaches and pools are safe.”
Strong was one of three volunteers nominated from among 280 volunteers in the Stratford-Trumbull-Monroe MRC. “Your dedication to the unit is exemplary. We greatly appreciate your support at our flu clinics and other health promotion events and value our partnership with Sacred Heart University and its nursing students,” wrote Andrea Boissevain, MPH, director of the Stratford Department of Health.
Strong was also named a 2011 Healthcare Hero for Greater New Haven in the Community Service category. She received the award at a dinner celebration and was featured in a profile in for a publication about the winners.
“I made a commitment when I became a nurse that my patients would be my co-residents and neighbors. I have volunteered in the community since my career began. I consider this recognition not only for what I have done, but for what the Sacred Heart nursing department has done,” she said, noting that the students help with many of her community projects. Those projects have included immunizations, check-ups for the homeless and more. “When the students get out in the community and meet people, they learn about more than nursing. People’s health is impacted by a variety of influences. This gives them a chance to learn about culture, diet, hobbies, travel and how those affect overall health.”
