Congratulations to Magnet Award Recipients

In celebration of Magnet® Month, Cook Children’s is proud to recognize the recipients of our fourth annual Magnet® Awards! These awards celebrate the nurses, leaders, and team members who exemplify nursing excellence and bring the principles of Magnet recognition to life every day.

Congratulations to our 2026 Magnet Award Winners!

Structural Empowerment Award: Sarah Spradlin, MSN, RN, CPN, Southlake UCC Recognized for strengthening professional practice through shared decision-making, professional development, mentorship, and engagement in organizational initiatives.

Innovation Award: Kristen Cook, BSN, RN, CPN,PICU Recognized for advancing patient care through quality improvement, evidence-based practice, nursing research, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Exemplary Professional Practice Award: Bradley Cain, MSN, RN, CCM, Case Management Recognized for demonstrating nursing autonomy, exceptional patient advocacy, strong interprofessional relationships, and clinical leadership.

Transformational Leadership Award: Jennifer Eads, BSN, RN, CCRN,NICU Recognized for inspiring others through vision, clinical expertise, collaboration, and leadership that prepares nursing for the future.

Ancillary Staff Member of the Year: Azra Ibrahimovic, NICU Milk Bank Recognized for going above and beyond in supporting nursing care and elevating the experience of patients and families.

Preceptor of the Year: Aubrey Mullen, LVN, NEST Center Recognized for exceptional dedication to developing new nurses through teaching, clinical expertise, advocacy, and support.

Mentor of the Year: Katherine Sowers, BSN, RN, CCM,Case Management Recognized for serving as a trusted guide and role model, supporting the professional growth and success of fellow nurses.

Nurse Leader of the Year: Kristin Zick, MSN, RN,Nurse Manager, 3 Pavilion Recognized for fostering a culture of trust, compassion, professional development, and shared commitment to better outcomes.

Each recipient represents the dedication, collaboration, and commitment to excellence that define nursing at Cook Children’s. Their contributions remind us that Magnet excellence is not simply a designation; it is reflected in the everyday actions, relationships, and innovations that make a difference for our patients, families, and colleagues.

Please join us in congratulating our 2026 Magnet Award winners! T

Thank you for making nursing excellence part of everything we do.