�鶹����

Dr. Samantha Bonaduce honored for innovation, excellence and dedication to student success

�鶹���� at Tuscarawas Nursing Lecturer Dr. Samantha Bonaduce, DNP, RN, CNE, has been recognized for her dedication to student learning, innovation in teaching and excellence in nursing education with the 2025 Elsevier Educator of the Year Award from the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN). Bonaduce officially receives the honor during the OADN Convention, November 20–22, in Nashville, TN. 

Bonaduce has been part of the Kent State Tuscarawas nursing faculty since 2012, and as an alumna of the very program where she now teaches, this recognition carries an even deeper meaning for her.

“I am profoundly grateful for the trust my colleagues have placed in my teaching and for the shared vision we have built together,” she said. “I have been fortunate to work alongside faculty who consistently model excellence in teaching, collaboration and innovation. This recognition reaffirms for me that we are stronger as a collective. It means that our program’s dedication to excellence in nursing education is being recognized on a national level, and I am humbled to accept this award on behalf of all of us who work every day to support our students and the future of nursing.”

Dr. Mariann Harding, nursing program director, said Bonaduce’s impact on students and the nursing program is profound.

“Dr. Bonaduce exemplifies the highest standards of associate degree nursing education and serves as a role model for all educators striving to shape the future of nursing and healthcare,” Harding said. “She embodies the qualities that all nurse educators should aspire to—passion, innovation and an unwavering commitment to student success. Her dedication to excellence to students and the broader nursing profession make her an outstanding recipient for this honor.”

Harding said that students describe Bonaduce as deeply knowledgeable, compassionate and approachable. They value her investment in their success and recognize her outstanding teaching ability. In 2021, Bonaduce received the �鶹���� Tuscarawas Distinguished Teaching Award, an honor based on student nominations.

“I have always been amazed by Dr. Bonaduce’s ability to excel at teaching, research and work-life balance,” said Dr. Bradley Bielski, dean and chief administrative officer of Kent State Tuscarawas. “This national recognition is a testament to her passion for teaching and her commitment to students. We are proud to have Dr. Bonaduce represent our campus and our nursing program at such a high level.”

The Elsevier Educator of the Year Award is a prestigious national recognition presented annually to one exceptional educator who demonstrates innovative teaching strategies, motivates students to perform at their highest level, collaborates effectively with colleagues in academic and clinical settings, and participates meaningfully in college, professional and community activities.

The award is presented by the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN), the national advocate for more than 1,100 associate degree nursing programs across the country. OADN works to advance excellence in nursing education and promote community college pathways into registered nursing careers. As the national voice for associate degree nursing, the organization seeks to expand networks that promote leadership, collaboration and advocacy to enrich nursing education and the communities it serves.

Bonaduce is a 2009 graduate of the Kent State Tuscarawas ADN program. She went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Kent State, followed by her doctorate degree from American Sentinel College of Nursing & Health Sciences at Post University, Waterbury, CT.