Jonathan Anotado
Gapilango
November 2025
Jonathan Anotado
Gapilango
,
DNP, MSN, MMIN, RN, NE-BC, OCN, CCRP
New Jersey League for Nursing (NJLN)
New Brunswick
,
NJ
United States
Jonathan’s consistent dedication to fostering a compassionate learning environment, promoting lifelong inquiry, and supporting professional advancement has profoundly shaped my life and the lives of many others.
Four distinct nominations were submitted and are below.
Nomination 1:
Fostering a Compassionate Environment Where Learners Flourish, Jonathan Gapilango embodies the quintessential qualities of a mentor, especially in nursing education. His profound commitment to fostering a compassionate learning environment has transformed the careers of countless individuals, including myself.
When I transitioned from long-term care to oncology nursing, Jonathan was my guiding light. He created a nurturing atmosphere where I felt safe to express my fears and seek clarification on complex topics. Jonathan’s open-door policy encouraged open dialogue, inspiring confidence and empowering me to thrive in my practice. His ability to listen empathetically and provide constructive feedback fostered a culture of growth.
One of the most impactful aspects of his mentorship was his unwavering belief in my potential, which drove me to pursue and achieve my chemotherapy certification and later, my Oncology Certified Nurse national certification. Subsequently, because of Jonathan's inspiring mentorship, I pursued my Master of Science in Nursing to become a Nurse Practitioner and proudly became the first Nurse Practitioner in Adult Oncology at Community Medical Center (CMC).
Through his dedication, I learned to navigate challenging situations with resilience and compassion. He instilled in me the values of compassion and integrity, urging me to see beyond the clinical aspects of human experience. In an era where healthcare is often high-pressure and fast-paced, Jonathan represents a compassionate educator dedicated to nurturing the next generation of nurses, ensuring that they flourish and reach their full potential.
Jonathan exemplifies the essence of what it means to be a true mentor in nursing. He actively fosters a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning, inspiring his mentees to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and into practice. His approach encourages us to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and develop critical thinking skills essential for effective nursing care.
Through collaborative interprofessional relationships, Jonathan promotes the development of each learner's professional identity. He highlights the importance of socialization and interpersonal communication, creating opportunities for us to engage in meaningful discussions about our roles in patient care. This emphasis on teamwork not only enhances our learning experiences but also prepares us to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, ensuring comprehensive care for our patients.
This feat was evidenced in 2023 when CMC was accredited as a center of excellence for rectal cancer, the 2nd hospital only in NJ to attain this rigorous accreditation.
Jonathan’s ability to bridge theoretical concepts to clinical practice is another pivotal strength. He consistently encourages us to integrate what we learn into our daily routines. For instance, during my transition to nursing navigator for colorectal cancer, Jonathan guided me through the complexities of navigating patient care while ensuring patient-centered approaches remained at the forefront. His wisdom in providing timely and effective mentorship has equipped me to manage challenging situations with confidence and clarity, ensuring that our patients receive equitable and compassionate care.
Finally, Jonathan is a great mentor and a changemaker in nursing education. His passion for training future healthcare professionals strengthens our profession and improves care.
Nomination Submitted by
John Lagayada, MSN, APRN, OCN, A-GNP.C
Nomination 2:
I am honored to nominate Jonathan Gapilango for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educator, as he has been a remarkable mentor throughout my nursing journey.
My encounter with Jonathan began during my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training at CMC, where he served as my Clinical Instructor. His influence was profound, shaping not just my skills as a nurse but also my understanding of the importance of compassion in patient care. Jonathan created an environment that allowed me and my classmates to flourish, filled with active listening and sincere support that made learning a safe and enjoyable experience.
As I transitioned from earning my LPN to becoming a Registered Nurse, and later pursuing my Master of Science in Nursing, Jonathan was an unwavering source of guidance. His steadfast encouragement inspired me to continue my education and aspire to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jonathan’s ability to foster a compassionate environment and commitment to patient-centered care helped me realize the potential within myself that I hadn’t yet acknowledged.
Jonathan's mentorship extended beyond the classroom; he instilled in me the values of empathy and critical thinking that are vital in healthcare. His approach was transformative, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application and ensuring that we developed the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the nursing profession.
Jonathan Gapilango is not just an educator to me; he is a true beacon of inspiration whose compassionate guidance has shaped my career and character as a nursing professional.
Additional Characteristics:
Jonathan’s influence on my professional development extends well beyond mere instruction; he has instilled in me a spirit of inquiry and a passion for lifelong learning that I cherish to this day.
As I reflect on my journey from an LPN to a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I recognize how integral Jonathan has been in fostering my growth. He encouraged open discussions and never hesitated to challenge us to think critically, creating an environment where questioning and exploration were celebrated.
Jonathan understands that nursing is not just a job; it is a calling that requires dedication to both personal and professional identities. His mentorship helped me to discover my strengths and aspirations within the nursing field while ensuring that I developed into a compassionate caregiver.
He has a remarkable ability to connect theoretical concepts with real-world practice, preparing me to manage the complexities of patient care with confidence and skill. Moreover, Jonathan promotes the development of interpersonal communication, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in healthcare.
By connecting his students with various healthcare professionals, he has equipped me with the ability to work as part of a cohesive team, an essential skill in today's healthcare landscape. His guidance and mentorship have also taught me the principles of safe, effective, and patient-centered care.
In every interaction, Jonathan embodies a commitment to nurturing future generations of nurses. He has not only transformed my career trajectory but has also left an indelible mark on how I approach the field of nursing.
Nomination Submitted by
Kenneth Mbah, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Nomination 3:
I am honored to nominate Jonathan for the prestigious Daisy Nurse Educator Award due to his exceptional contributions as a clinical instructor in nursing education.
Jonathan exemplifies the primary characteristic of fostering a compassionate environment where learners flourish. His genuine commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere allows students to engage, ask questions, and develop their skills without fear of judgment.
During my time as a practical nursing student, Jonathan’s unique teaching style stood out remarkably. He facilitated a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning by combining theoretical knowledge with practical application in a way that was both engaging and effective. Jonathan encouraged us to explore the "why" behind every nursing procedure and concept, which led to a deeper understanding of the material.
His ability to make complex ideas understandable fosters critical thinking and clinical judgment among students, equipping us for the challenges of real-world patient care.
One particularly impactful experience with Jonathan illustrates his dedication to student development. During a challenging clinical rotation, I struggled to connect with patients, which was disheartening for someone who aspired to be a compassionate nurse. Jonathan recognized my difficulties and took the time to offer one-on-one guidance.
He provided constructive feedback and shared firsthand experiences that helped me comprehend how to better approach patient interactions. Through his mentorship, I developed both technical skills and confidence as a compassionate caregiver, realizing the fundamental role of empathy in nursing.
Jonathan's commitment to promoting the development and advancement of each learner’s professional identity extends beyond my nursing journey. After graduating, he continued to support me as I pursued my Registered Nurse (RN) licensure.
Recognizing my potential, he readily offered his guidance and recommendations, believing in me even during my moments of self-doubt. He helped me navigate the arduous application process and prepared me for the challenges of a demanding nursing environment.
His belief in lifelong learning profoundly resonates with me and drives my ambition to pursue excellence in my future endeavors. As I transitioned to pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and now embark on my journey toward obtaining my Nurse Practitioner (NP) degree, Jonathan has remained a vital source of insight and encouragement.
His dedication to facilitating learner development and fostering socialization among students is evident in how he encourages collaborative learning experiences. He nurtures interpersonal communication skills among peers, preparing us to work effectively in interprofessional environments.
Moreover, Jonathan consistently bridges theoretical concepts to clinical practice, reinforcing the critical importance of patient-centered care. His insights into clinical practice enhanced my skill set and demonstrate his commitment to delivering safe, effective, and equitable nursing care.
In conclusion, Jonathan’s consistent dedication to fostering a compassionate learning environment, promoting lifelong inquiry, and supporting professional advancement has profoundly shaped my life and the lives of many others.
Jonathan is not just an educator; he is a mentor who genuinely cares for his students' futures. His dedication and influence make him a deserving candidate for this prestigious NJLN Daisy Nurse Educator Award.
Nomination Submitted by
Angelito Perez, LPN, RN, BSN
Nomination 4:
I am privileged to nominate Jonathan Gapilango for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educator, as he has been an exceptional mentor and an extraordinary influence in my nursing career.
I first met Jonathan when he hired me as a nursing assistant in the inpatient oncology unit. From our very first interaction, I was struck by his unwavering dedication to creating a compassionate environment where learners can truly flourish.
Jonathan’s approach was not only about teaching clinical skills but about instilling values of empathy and understanding that are essential in nursing. Under his guidance, I pursued my AAS in 2007, and his mentorship was crucial as I continued to advance my education, earning my MSN in 2020.
Jonathan’s profound belief in my potential encouraged me to embrace challenges and strive for excellence. When he was promoted to Director of the Cancer Center at Community Medical Center, he played a vital role in my professional growth, succession planning for my position as Director of Inpatient Oncology.
His belief in fostering future leaders is a testament to his commitment to nursing education and mentorship. Jonathan is a compassionate nurse educator who focuses on patient-centered care. His influence extends beyond individual interactions, creating a culture of support and continuous learning.
Jonathan's teachings are invaluable, and he sets a shining example. Every nurse feels his impact he mentors, making him a transformative leader whose lessons are passed down to future nurses.
Additional Characteristics:
Jonathan exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary nurse educator not only by fostering a compassionate environment but also by facilitating a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning.
From the moment I joined his team as a nursing assistant, Jonathan encouraged me to ask questions and seek new knowledge, creating an atmosphere where curiosity was genuinely valued. His enthusiasm for learning was infectious, motivating me to pursue my RN and then an MSN, continually pushing me to expand my horizons.
He understands that developing a professional identity is vital in the nursing field. Jonathan supported my growth by providing opportunities for socialization and interpersonal communication among team members. His mentoring approach facilitated collaborative interprofessional relationships, allowing us to learn from each other and recognize the importance of teamwork in delivering exceptional patient care.
Moreover, Jonathan masterfully bridges theoretical concepts to clinical practice. His ability to promote critical thinking and clinical judgment among his mentees significantly impacts on their readiness to face real-world challenges.
He is an expert resource, whose wisdom in demonstrating safe, effective, and equitable patient-centered care has shaped my own philosophy as a nurse leader. His teachings have instilled in me not just the principles of nursing, but a deep commitment to advocacy for our patients and community.
I have fostered a commitment to compassionate healing, just as he did for me. His legacy as an educator resonates in every interaction, and I am proud to carry forward the values he has instilled in me. His extraordinary contributions to nursing education and mentorship deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
Nomination Submitted by
Heather Zebrowski, MSN, RN, OCN
Nomination 1:
Fostering a Compassionate Environment Where Learners Flourish, Jonathan Gapilango embodies the quintessential qualities of a mentor, especially in nursing education. His profound commitment to fostering a compassionate learning environment has transformed the careers of countless individuals, including myself.
When I transitioned from long-term care to oncology nursing, Jonathan was my guiding light. He created a nurturing atmosphere where I felt safe to express my fears and seek clarification on complex topics. Jonathan’s open-door policy encouraged open dialogue, inspiring confidence and empowering me to thrive in my practice. His ability to listen empathetically and provide constructive feedback fostered a culture of growth.
One of the most impactful aspects of his mentorship was his unwavering belief in my potential, which drove me to pursue and achieve my chemotherapy certification and later, my Oncology Certified Nurse national certification. Subsequently, because of Jonathan's inspiring mentorship, I pursued my Master of Science in Nursing to become a Nurse Practitioner and proudly became the first Nurse Practitioner in Adult Oncology at Community Medical Center (CMC).
Through his dedication, I learned to navigate challenging situations with resilience and compassion. He instilled in me the values of compassion and integrity, urging me to see beyond the clinical aspects of human experience. In an era where healthcare is often high-pressure and fast-paced, Jonathan represents a compassionate educator dedicated to nurturing the next generation of nurses, ensuring that they flourish and reach their full potential.
Jonathan exemplifies the essence of what it means to be a true mentor in nursing. He actively fosters a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning, inspiring his mentees to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and into practice. His approach encourages us to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and develop critical thinking skills essential for effective nursing care.
Through collaborative interprofessional relationships, Jonathan promotes the development of each learner's professional identity. He highlights the importance of socialization and interpersonal communication, creating opportunities for us to engage in meaningful discussions about our roles in patient care. This emphasis on teamwork not only enhances our learning experiences but also prepares us to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, ensuring comprehensive care for our patients.
This feat was evidenced in 2023 when CMC was accredited as a center of excellence for rectal cancer, the 2nd hospital only in NJ to attain this rigorous accreditation.
Jonathan’s ability to bridge theoretical concepts to clinical practice is another pivotal strength. He consistently encourages us to integrate what we learn into our daily routines. For instance, during my transition to nursing navigator for colorectal cancer, Jonathan guided me through the complexities of navigating patient care while ensuring patient-centered approaches remained at the forefront. His wisdom in providing timely and effective mentorship has equipped me to manage challenging situations with confidence and clarity, ensuring that our patients receive equitable and compassionate care.
Finally, Jonathan is a great mentor and a changemaker in nursing education. His passion for training future healthcare professionals strengthens our profession and improves care.
Nomination Submitted by
John Lagayada, MSN, APRN, OCN, A-GNP.C
Nomination 2:
I am honored to nominate Jonathan Gapilango for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educator, as he has been a remarkable mentor throughout my nursing journey.
My encounter with Jonathan began during my Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training at CMC, where he served as my Clinical Instructor. His influence was profound, shaping not just my skills as a nurse but also my understanding of the importance of compassion in patient care. Jonathan created an environment that allowed me and my classmates to flourish, filled with active listening and sincere support that made learning a safe and enjoyable experience.
As I transitioned from earning my LPN to becoming a Registered Nurse, and later pursuing my Master of Science in Nursing, Jonathan was an unwavering source of guidance. His steadfast encouragement inspired me to continue my education and aspire to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Jonathan’s ability to foster a compassionate environment and commitment to patient-centered care helped me realize the potential within myself that I hadn’t yet acknowledged.
Jonathan's mentorship extended beyond the classroom; he instilled in me the values of empathy and critical thinking that are vital in healthcare. His approach was transformative, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application and ensuring that we developed the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of the nursing profession.
Jonathan Gapilango is not just an educator to me; he is a true beacon of inspiration whose compassionate guidance has shaped my career and character as a nursing professional.
Additional Characteristics:
Jonathan’s influence on my professional development extends well beyond mere instruction; he has instilled in me a spirit of inquiry and a passion for lifelong learning that I cherish to this day.
As I reflect on my journey from an LPN to a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I recognize how integral Jonathan has been in fostering my growth. He encouraged open discussions and never hesitated to challenge us to think critically, creating an environment where questioning and exploration were celebrated.
Jonathan understands that nursing is not just a job; it is a calling that requires dedication to both personal and professional identities. His mentorship helped me to discover my strengths and aspirations within the nursing field while ensuring that I developed into a compassionate caregiver.
He has a remarkable ability to connect theoretical concepts with real-world practice, preparing me to manage the complexities of patient care with confidence and skill. Moreover, Jonathan promotes the development of interpersonal communication, demonstrating the importance of collaboration in healthcare.
By connecting his students with various healthcare professionals, he has equipped me with the ability to work as part of a cohesive team, an essential skill in today's healthcare landscape. His guidance and mentorship have also taught me the principles of safe, effective, and patient-centered care.
In every interaction, Jonathan embodies a commitment to nurturing future generations of nurses. He has not only transformed my career trajectory but has also left an indelible mark on how I approach the field of nursing.
Nomination Submitted by
Kenneth Mbah, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Nomination 3:
I am honored to nominate Jonathan for the prestigious Daisy Nurse Educator Award due to his exceptional contributions as a clinical instructor in nursing education.
Jonathan exemplifies the primary characteristic of fostering a compassionate environment where learners flourish. His genuine commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere allows students to engage, ask questions, and develop their skills without fear of judgment.
During my time as a practical nursing student, Jonathan’s unique teaching style stood out remarkably. He facilitated a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning by combining theoretical knowledge with practical application in a way that was both engaging and effective. Jonathan encouraged us to explore the "why" behind every nursing procedure and concept, which led to a deeper understanding of the material.
His ability to make complex ideas understandable fosters critical thinking and clinical judgment among students, equipping us for the challenges of real-world patient care.
One particularly impactful experience with Jonathan illustrates his dedication to student development. During a challenging clinical rotation, I struggled to connect with patients, which was disheartening for someone who aspired to be a compassionate nurse. Jonathan recognized my difficulties and took the time to offer one-on-one guidance.
He provided constructive feedback and shared firsthand experiences that helped me comprehend how to better approach patient interactions. Through his mentorship, I developed both technical skills and confidence as a compassionate caregiver, realizing the fundamental role of empathy in nursing.
Jonathan's commitment to promoting the development and advancement of each learner’s professional identity extends beyond my nursing journey. After graduating, he continued to support me as I pursued my Registered Nurse (RN) licensure.
Recognizing my potential, he readily offered his guidance and recommendations, believing in me even during my moments of self-doubt. He helped me navigate the arduous application process and prepared me for the challenges of a demanding nursing environment.
His belief in lifelong learning profoundly resonates with me and drives my ambition to pursue excellence in my future endeavors. As I transitioned to pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and now embark on my journey toward obtaining my Nurse Practitioner (NP) degree, Jonathan has remained a vital source of insight and encouragement.
His dedication to facilitating learner development and fostering socialization among students is evident in how he encourages collaborative learning experiences. He nurtures interpersonal communication skills among peers, preparing us to work effectively in interprofessional environments.
Moreover, Jonathan consistently bridges theoretical concepts to clinical practice, reinforcing the critical importance of patient-centered care. His insights into clinical practice enhanced my skill set and demonstrate his commitment to delivering safe, effective, and equitable nursing care.
In conclusion, Jonathan’s consistent dedication to fostering a compassionate learning environment, promoting lifelong inquiry, and supporting professional advancement has profoundly shaped my life and the lives of many others.
Jonathan is not just an educator; he is a mentor who genuinely cares for his students' futures. His dedication and influence make him a deserving candidate for this prestigious NJLN Daisy Nurse Educator Award.
Nomination Submitted by
Angelito Perez, LPN, RN, BSN
Nomination 4:
I am privileged to nominate Jonathan Gapilango for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educator, as he has been an exceptional mentor and an extraordinary influence in my nursing career.
I first met Jonathan when he hired me as a nursing assistant in the inpatient oncology unit. From our very first interaction, I was struck by his unwavering dedication to creating a compassionate environment where learners can truly flourish.
Jonathan’s approach was not only about teaching clinical skills but about instilling values of empathy and understanding that are essential in nursing. Under his guidance, I pursued my AAS in 2007, and his mentorship was crucial as I continued to advance my education, earning my MSN in 2020.
Jonathan’s profound belief in my potential encouraged me to embrace challenges and strive for excellence. When he was promoted to Director of the Cancer Center at Community Medical Center, he played a vital role in my professional growth, succession planning for my position as Director of Inpatient Oncology.
His belief in fostering future leaders is a testament to his commitment to nursing education and mentorship. Jonathan is a compassionate nurse educator who focuses on patient-centered care. His influence extends beyond individual interactions, creating a culture of support and continuous learning.
Jonathan's teachings are invaluable, and he sets a shining example. Every nurse feels his impact he mentors, making him a transformative leader whose lessons are passed down to future nurses.
Additional Characteristics:
Jonathan exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary nurse educator not only by fostering a compassionate environment but also by facilitating a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning.
From the moment I joined his team as a nursing assistant, Jonathan encouraged me to ask questions and seek new knowledge, creating an atmosphere where curiosity was genuinely valued. His enthusiasm for learning was infectious, motivating me to pursue my RN and then an MSN, continually pushing me to expand my horizons.
He understands that developing a professional identity is vital in the nursing field. Jonathan supported my growth by providing opportunities for socialization and interpersonal communication among team members. His mentoring approach facilitated collaborative interprofessional relationships, allowing us to learn from each other and recognize the importance of teamwork in delivering exceptional patient care.
Moreover, Jonathan masterfully bridges theoretical concepts to clinical practice. His ability to promote critical thinking and clinical judgment among his mentees significantly impacts on their readiness to face real-world challenges.
He is an expert resource, whose wisdom in demonstrating safe, effective, and equitable patient-centered care has shaped my own philosophy as a nurse leader. His teachings have instilled in me not just the principles of nursing, but a deep commitment to advocacy for our patients and community.
I have fostered a commitment to compassionate healing, just as he did for me. His legacy as an educator resonates in every interaction, and I am proud to carry forward the values he has instilled in me. His extraordinary contributions to nursing education and mentorship deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
Nomination Submitted by
Heather Zebrowski, MSN, RN, OCN