Excellence in Nursing Awards

Jennifer Babcock, BSN, RN, CHPN –Nurse Clinical Lead, Gilchrist Center Baltimore

“Jen is by far one of Baltimore’s best,” said Katherine Packett, hospice clinical manager of the Baltimore center. “She has one of the biggest hearts, both professionally and personally. Her dedication to her patients, their families and her colleagues is unmatched. She is constantly learning and growing herself to be a better clinician. Without her, our team would not be the same. I’m honored to have her on my team and in my life.”

Jennifer Nicole Chen, RN – Hospice Nurse, Gilchrist Center Towson

“Nicole is such an asset to our unit,” said Gina Ranieri Bender, clinical manager or the Towson Center. “She remains positive even during the most challenging shifts. She can be seen taking time to talk with a family member or patient to find out what is important to them during their stay with us and providing support and education during a very difficult time. She sets such a positive and professional example. She is the kindest person I know and truly exemplifies the best qualities of a hospice nurse.”

Renee Ennis, BSN, RN

Renee Ennis joined Gilchrist in 2017 as a hospice nurse, working bedside with patients at Gilchrist Center Baltimore. Prior to coming to Gilchrist, she was a nurse case manager with Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care. Her nursing experience spans public health, substance abuse, hemodialysis and internal medicine. Renee earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Winston Salem State University.

“Renee is one of a kind, both professionally and personally. She genuinely cares about each one of her patients and colleagues as if they were family. Her vibrant laugh and positivity is contagious. In the ever-changing, chaotic, high-speed profession that nursing can be, these qualities that she possesses are unparalleled by anyone I’ve ever met. By far she is one of Baltimore’s best!”

Katherine Packett, RN, BSN, CCRN
Hospice Clinical Manager
Gilchrist Center Baltimore

Karen Bartosz, RN, MSN, CHPN

Karen Bartosz has worked as a Gilchrist hospice home care nurse for five years. Prior to joining Gilchrist, Karen worked for 26 years as an intensive care nurse. Karen earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and a Master of Science in Nursing degree from the University of Maryland. She achieved certification in hospice and palliative care nursing in 2017.

Karen, in her daily work, has the natural ability to convey compassion to those she cares for – she exhibits honesty, respect, wisdom and sensitivity. Karen every day has a warm-hearted smile, treats her colleagues with respect and does not hesitate to sing the praises of her co-workers. Karen always has a story to share with team members – speaking of a patient and family, telling how the family has gone from anxious and overwhelmed to calm and accepting, or sharing a story that exhibits human nature at its best or worst, often complemented by Karen’s soft and hilarious sense of humor. Karen often, without knowing, reminds us all that the human spirit should not be underestimated.”

Deborah L. Duhnke, RN, BSN, CHPN
Hospice Clinical Manager
Gilchrist Howard County