The DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize those nurses who have devoted their life's work to the compassionate care of others. Recipients of this award are nominated for their dedication to nursing through active mentoring, role modeling, advocating for their patients, and promoting the positive image of nursing. They serve as a beacon of inspiration to those at all stages of their career and in the various and important roles of nursing. 

It is with great honor and heartfelt appreciation that we honor Rusty Maraman with the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award. His career has been a shining example of dedication, compassion, and excellence in nursing—a journey that has spanned decades and left an indelible mark on every team, patient, and colleague fortunate enough to work alongside him. 

Throughout his incredible career in nursing Rusty has demonstrated flexibility, a desire to learn, and a willingness to take on new challenges. He embodies the proverb “Blessed are the flexible for they shall not get bent out of shape.” 

Rusty has served as manager of the SICU, CVICU/CV Stepdown, Neuro ICU, the orthopedic unit, and the rehab unit, in addition to many other roles.  He even served all our state’s nurses through the Alabama Board of Nursing.  Rusty has led with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality patient care. He has consistently cultivated an environment where safety is not just a priority, but a deeply embedded culture. Under his leadership, nurses felt not only supported but truly empowered to advocate for their patients and for one another. 

What sets Rusty apart is his ability to lead with both strength and heart. He has built nursing teams who don’t just work well together—they thrive. They are inspired by his example, motivated by his trust in them, and grounded in the respect he shows every individual. His team members love and admire him, not just for his clinical expertise or administrative skill, but for the way he sees and values each of them as people and professionals. 

Over the years, Rusty has mentored countless nurses, many of whom now carry his lessons and leadership style forward in their own careers. He has shown time and again that leadership in nursing is about creating space for others to grow, to be heard, and to shine. 

For his tireless dedication, for building teams rooted in mutual respect and compassion, and for a lifetime spent elevating the nursing profession, we proudly present Rusty with the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award. His legacy is one of safety, strength, and heart—and it will continue to influence and inspire for generations to come