Mary Teelin, RN, a clinical training specialist at Upstate for nearly two decades, has been honored with the 2023 Spirit of Nancy Calhoun Award, presented by the Department of Spiritual Care, Clinical Pastoral, Education, and the Professional Advisory Council.

The award is named for Nancy Calhoun, a former social worker at University Health Care Center, who played a key role in helping to bring a Clinical Pastoral Education program to Upstate. 

Teelin received the award as she exemplifies Calhoun’s spirit and support for learners, said Spiritual Care Director Rev. Terry Culbertson.

“Mary is much like Nancy,” Culbertson said. “She’s an energetic and caring caregiver who always keeps the best interest of the patient in mind. For the many years that our program has assigned chaplain interns to 5A, Mary has helped orient them, encourage them, make referrals to them, and included them in the interdisciplinary team process. Every learner who has ever been assigned to 5A cannot say enough about what a difference Mary has made in their training and education in chaplaincy.”

Teelin has held numerous roles at Upstate, since starting her career here in 1989, including as RN clinical leader. She is also certified in Medical Surgery Specialty. Other honors Teelin has received during her career at Upstate include the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Classified Services and two clinical excellence awards from Upstate Nursing.

Caption: Mary Teelin is this year's winner of the Spirit of Nancy Calhoun Award.