Alumni Awards

Since 1966 we have recognized outstanding alumni for their achievements in nursing. In 1991 and each year after, we have awarded fellow nurses these prestigious awards at our annual Nursing Awards Banquet.

2025 Alumni Award Recipients

Annette Lueckenotte, BSN ’72Citation of Merit
Melissa Wilson, PhD’16Alumni of the Year
Jessica Hoehne, BSN ’11, MS(N) ’17, DNP ’23Alumni Achievement
Carole Schrumpf Dabbs, BSN ‘70Humanitarian of the Year
Rebecca GravesHonorary Alumni Award
Brian NeunerDistinguished Friend of the School

Citation of Merit

Annette Lueckenotte, BSN’72

Annette Lueckenotte has dedicated more than 40 years to advancing gerontological nursing, establishing herself as a national expert in elder care. Her influential publications, including Gerontologic Nursing and Pocket Guide to Gerontologic Assessment, have earned multiple American Journal of Nursing Book of the Year awards, reflecting her profound impact on the field. As an advanced practice nurse, she has championed holistic care for older adults, addressing their physical, mental and social needs with expertise and compassion. She also delivered primary care to older adults in the first private nursing practice in the country.

Throughout her nearly five-decade career, Lueckenotte has emerged as a leader in gerontological nursing, significantly advancing elder care through her work as a clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner. Her contributions extend beyond direct care, influencing best practices and shaping the profession through mentorship and research.

In her leadership role as supervisor for the Missouri Quality Initiative (MOQI) research grant, she guided 17 advanced practice registered nurses across 16 facilities, reducing avoidable hospitalizations and improving care for thousands of residents. Her ability to mentor staff and implement innovative solutions underscores her dedication to enhancing care systems for older adults.

As an educator, Lueckenotte has served as an assistant clinical professor and preceptor to graduate students, integrating evidence-based practices into clinical education. Her mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of gerontological nurses.

A committed volunteer, Lueckenotte has actively supported the Nursing Alumni Organization, fostering alumni connections and advancing the school’s mission. Her advocacy for evidence-based practice, mentorship and community engagement has left a lasting legacy.

Alumni of the Year

Melissa Wilson, PhD’16

Dr. Melissa Wilson is a trailblazer in nursing. Currently serving as a nurse scientist at Mayo Clinic’s department of nursing, her research experience spans a vast array of topics such as moral distress, acute pain management, the use of health technologies and the role of Advance Practice Registered Nurses. She was awarded a U.S. Patent and two invention disclosures for health care technology used in military health care systems. Her work has profoundly impacted health care delivery, particularly through her groundbreaking research to establish moral distress as an experience in military health care providers and the development of innovative technologies to support patients and providers in the transport of injured military members. These contributions, along with her extensive publications and leadership in nursing ethics, have earned her national and international recognition.

Wilson’s dedication to education and mentorship exemplifies her commitment to shaping the future of nursing. Having served as a chair of nursing, associate director and many other faculty roles in her years in nursing education, she led transformative efforts to deliver accessible, high-quality academic programs, often to underserved areas of need.

Her impact extends beyond her academic and research roles. She continues to mentor and guide others with compassion and professionalism through her service as a research mentor at Mayo Clinic, involvement in both professional and personal organizations and through service to her community. Wilson, her husband and children fostered 10 children, mostly teenagers, over four years because of the opiate epidemic in their rural hometown. Her and her family continue to advocate for the needs of children in the system who have experienced disruption and trauma.

A proud Mizzou Nursing alumna, Wilson remains deeply connected to her alma mater. Through her ongoing support and achievements, she has elevated the school’s reputation and inspired generations of nurses. Her exemplary career embodies the values of leadership, innovation and integrity, making her a deserving honoree and a shining example for the nursing community.

Alumni Achievement

Jessica Hoehne, BSN’11, MS(N)’17, DNP’23

Dr. Jessica Hoehne, a distinguished three-time graduate of the Sinclair School of Nursing, embodies excellence in nursing leadership and innovation, making her a deserving recipient of the Nursing Alumni Achievement Award. She currently serves as the director of nursing with the Office of Professional Practice at MU Health Care, where she continues to advance nursing excellence and professional development. In her previous role as clinical manager of the neuroscience service line at MU Health Care, Hoehne demonstrated transformative leadership, overseeing the expansion of a 30-bed NSICU and driving significant improvements in patient satisfaction, employee engagement and retention rates. Her leadership has elevated the performance and reputation of her units while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.

Hoehne’s commitment to advancing the nursing profession is evident in her impactful contributions to education and mentorship. Her DNP project, which focused on a formalized mentorship program for new graduate nurses, has been widely recognized, with national presentations, poster sessions and a publication. As a former adjunct clinical instructor at the Sinclair School of Nursing, Hoehne inspired students to embrace evidence-based practices and pursue clinical excellence. Her efforts have significantly influenced the development of future nursing professionals while advancing the reputation of Mizzou’s nursing programs.

Beyond her clinical and educational roles, Hoehne actively supports the nursing profession through leadership roles as a board of director for the Missouri Nurses Association’s West Region and as chair of leadership succession for Sigma Theta Tau’s Alpha Iota Chapter. She also participates in interdisciplinary initiatives like the Activity and Mobility Project, which focuses on assessing patient mobility, setting goals and working toward improved outcomes. Her dedication to professional growth, patient-centered care and community engagement highlights her as a role model for nursing alumni. Hoehne’s accomplishments reflect the values of the Sinclair School of Nursing and the potential for even greater contributions to the field.

Humanitarian of the Year

Carole Schrumpf Dabbs, BSN‘70

Dr. Carole Schrumpf Dabbs embodies an unwavering commitment to nursing education and community service. With a career spanning decades, she has shaped the nursing profession by developing groundbreaking programs, including the first RN program at East Central College and the Missouri LPN/ADN Bridge Course. Her leadership and dedication have empowered countless students, with over 700 graduates from her programs, and her work continues to influence nursing education.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dabbs has demonstrated profound compassion and service to vulnerable populations. She volunteered for a decade at a group home for girls, fostering creativity and resilience. She also served as a board member and fundraiser for NAMI Shoals, where she developed procedures that strengthened the organization’s mission. Her efforts earned her the Volunteer of the Year award, underscoring her impact on individuals and families in need. Dabbs also contributes to her community through her church, providing meals for shut-ins and teaching classes.

Dabbs credits her education for laying the foundation of her distinguished career. Her legacy of compassion, knowledge and service reflects the highest values of nursing and inspires students and colleagues alike.

Honorary Alumni Award

Rebecca Graves

Rebecca Graves has made exceptional contributions to the Sinclair School of Nursing through her steadfast support of nursing research and education. As an educational services librarian at the J. Otto Lottes Health Sciences Library, Graves has collaborated with nursing faculty on key initiatives, including systematic reviews and grant-funded projects such as best practices for managing COVID-19 in nursing homes. Her work has advanced nursing science and strengthened the school’s academic foundation.

Graves’ dedication to student success is equally commendable. She regularly presents to nursing students at all levels, offering guidance on literature searches, bibliographic tools and research strategies. Her ability to simplify complex academic processes has empowered countless students, particularly those returning to academia for advanced degrees. Graves’ approachable teaching style fosters confidence and ensures students are well-equipped to navigate their research and writing journeys.

Recognized for her professional excellence and commitment to collaboration, Graves has significantly enhanced the “Cycle of Success” at the universityby linking libraries, faculty and students in a shared pursuit of academic achievement. Her leadership, innovation and unwavering support have left a lasting impact on the Sinclair School of Nursing. Graves’ dedication to the nursing profession and the university community makes her a deserving recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award.

Distinguished Friend of the School

Brian Neuner

Brian Neuner is a proud ’88 graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism who has devoted his career to philanthropy and service. As chief development officer for Special Olympics Missouri, he champions inclusivity and community support. Inspired by his wife of 35 years, Candy Neuner, BSN ’99, he has a deep appreciation for the impact of nursing and health care.

Neuner’s passion for building meaningful relationships has been the driving force throughout his career, whether as a television sports director, business leader or nonprofit advocate. His ability to connect with individuals across diverse backgrounds has fueled his commitment to philanthropy, raising significant funds for causes in health care, education and community development.

While serving on the Dean’s External Advisory Council from 2009-2013, he co-founded the Dean’s Dinner, an event designed to introduce influential community leaders to the school’s mission and expand its reach. His leadership and advocacy have helped strengthen the school’s visibility and support.

In 2021, Neuner was appointed to the Missouri Mental Health Commission, furthering his dedication to improving the well-being of Missourians facing mental health challenges. Whether through board service, fundraising or public speaking, he continues to champion the importance of health care and support for those in need.

For his unwavering support, leadership and dedication to nursing and health care, the Sinclair School of Nursing proudly recognizes Neuner as the 2025 Distinguished Friend of the School.