May 2026 Honoree
Julie Baker-Townsend, DNP, WHNP, FNP-BC
Julie Baker-Townsend, affectionately known as “JBT,” was recognized by multiple students for the compassion, education, advocacy, and reassurance she consistently brings to every patient encounter.
One student described receiving “one of the best Pap smears I’ve ever received,” sharing, “I felt cared for, and I appreciate that she listened to my concerns. I’ve never had that experience with a provider in my 33 years of living.” The student went on to explain that the experience had a lasting impact on how they approach future healthcare appointments.
Another student praised Julie’s ability to make even sensitive or potentially uncomfortable visits feel safe and understandable: “Dr. Julie Baker-Townsend does an amazing job at educating you about what procedures she’s doing, how she’s doing them, and why they are useful. She does a phenomenal job at making sure you are comfortable!”
That sense of comfort and trust was echoed by another patient, who shared, “For every visit I had with Dr. Julie Baker-Townsend, I’ve always left with clarity and reassurance. I’ve always been comfortable in her presence and never been afraid to ask questions. Those are the qualities, I believe, that should be celebrated in an exemplary health care provider.”
Perhaps most meaningful is the way Julie’s patients describe feeling genuinely heard and empowered to advocate for themselves. One student wrote that Julie “took my concerns extremely seriously,” adding that the experience was “reassuring to know I need to keep advocating for myself and my pains.” The student shared that Julie took extra time to explain everything, provided space for questions and conversation, and “never made me feel like I was talking too much or asking too many questions.”
Julie’s care also extends beyond the walls of the exam room. That same student described how Julie “went out of her way to call another clinic for referral to help out my process of getting in,” concluding simply, “She was amazing!”
Across each of these nominations, the same themes emerged: Julie listens. She explains. She reassures. She advocates. Most importantly, she creates an environment where patients feel safe, respected, and confident in their own healthcare decisions.
Julie’s patients do not simply leave with a treatment plan. They leave feeling heard, valued, informed, and empowered. Her commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care exemplifies the spirit of the DAISY Award and the extraordinary difference a healthcare professional can make in a patient’s life.
Congratulations to Julie Baker-Townsend, the 2026 Student Health Services DAISY Award honoree.
One student described receiving “one of the best Pap smears I’ve ever received,” sharing, “I felt cared for, and I appreciate that she listened to my concerns. I’ve never had that experience with a provider in my 33 years of living.” The student went on to explain that the experience had a lasting impact on how they approach future healthcare appointments.
Another student praised Julie’s ability to make even sensitive or potentially uncomfortable visits feel safe and understandable: “Dr. Julie Baker-Townsend does an amazing job at educating you about what procedures she’s doing, how she’s doing them, and why they are useful. She does a phenomenal job at making sure you are comfortable!”
That sense of comfort and trust was echoed by another patient, who shared, “For every visit I had with Dr. Julie Baker-Townsend, I’ve always left with clarity and reassurance. I’ve always been comfortable in her presence and never been afraid to ask questions. Those are the qualities, I believe, that should be celebrated in an exemplary health care provider.”
Perhaps most meaningful is the way Julie’s patients describe feeling genuinely heard and empowered to advocate for themselves. One student wrote that Julie “took my concerns extremely seriously,” adding that the experience was “reassuring to know I need to keep advocating for myself and my pains.” The student shared that Julie took extra time to explain everything, provided space for questions and conversation, and “never made me feel like I was talking too much or asking too many questions.”
Julie’s care also extends beyond the walls of the exam room. That same student described how Julie “went out of her way to call another clinic for referral to help out my process of getting in,” concluding simply, “She was amazing!”
Across each of these nominations, the same themes emerged: Julie listens. She explains. She reassures. She advocates. Most importantly, she creates an environment where patients feel safe, respected, and confident in their own healthcare decisions.
Julie’s patients do not simply leave with a treatment plan. They leave feeling heard, valued, informed, and empowered. Her commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care exemplifies the spirit of the DAISY Award and the extraordinary difference a healthcare professional can make in a patient’s life.
Congratulations to Julie Baker-Townsend, the 2026 Student Health Services DAISY Award honoree.
Thank you, Julie, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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