Betty Ann Buentipo is proudly honored as the recipient of the 2024 DAISY award during its 4th annual ceremony held at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort on Friday, May 10, 2024. 

The DAISY award stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. It acknowledges exceptional nurses who have made a profound impact on their patients' lives. This year's award was presented to Betty Ann Buentipo, a dedicated registered nurse in the Emergency Department.

The DAISY Awards ceremony was attended by nominees, guests, GRMC's executive team, clinical and non-clinical staff, and esteemed judges, including Speaker and Senator Therese Terlaje, Zennia C. Pecina from the Guam Board of Nurse Examiner, Jennifer Cruz, GRMC's Chief Nursing Officer, and Chloe Mortes, the 2023 DAISY award honoree.

Buentipo's selection as the honoree was the result of voting by her colleagues, patients, their families, and the judging panel. 

Judges made their decision based solely on the nominees' stories. Buentipo’s exceptional dedication touched the lives of three individuals who nominated her, praising her compassionate care and unwavering commitment.

Buentipo’ family shares that she treats her patients like her own and goes the extra mile to provide comfort and support. 

She is further described as compassionate, caring, skillful, and attentive with her work.  

Shebegan her career at GRMC's Emergency Department in August 2015. Over the past 8 years and 9 months, she has held various positions, including ED Manager, Director of Quality, Patient Safety & Infection Prevention, and currently serves as House Supervisor/Registered Nurse.

During her opening speech, GRMC Chief Nursing Officer, Jennifer Cruz, touched upon the significance and esteem associated with the DAISY Awards.

“Nursing transcends mere profession; it's a calling—a vocation to serve and support those in need. The nurses being honored today have exemplified this through their unwavering dedication to their patients, their willingness to go above and beyond, and their compassionate approach to healthcare,” said Cruz. 

GRMC CEO, Dr. Alexander "Beau" Wielaard, extended his appreciation and congratulations to all nominees and this year's recipient.

“Our nurses form the steadfast foundation of our patient care services. Aligning with the theme of this year's National Nurses Week, Nurses Make the Difference,  you have truly made an impactful difference. I take pride in collaborating with individuals like you—dedicated and committed to fulfilling our promise of caring for the communities we serve,” Wielaard said. 

As the 2024 DAISY award recipient, Buentipo received several honors, including a certificate, a DAISY award pin, a hand-carved serpentine stone from Zimbabwe, a Spotlight feature on the DAISY website and GRMC's social media, eligibility for reduced tuition at the Chamberlain University College of Nursing, and more. 

Buentipo concluded the ceremony by cutting a gigantic cinnamon bun cake, specially prepared by the Dusit Thani Guam Resort staff.