LEWISTON — Erin Cady of Mechanic Falls has been presented the Central Maine Medical Center College of Nursing Alumni Association Elsie Lauten Award.

The award, which includes a scholarship, is made annually to a senior student who “displays a unique gift of compassion in care of the geriatric patient.” The Central Maine Medical Center College of Nursing faculty selects the award winner.

“It was an absolute honor to receive the award. It was completely unexpected. I am very grateful for it, as well as for the financial gift,” Cady said. “I have been concerned that my compassion and empathy would leave me as a nurse feeling emotionally drained, so having proper boundaries for a therapeutic relationship is something I’ve had to work on. But for someone to say, ‘Hey, we recognize that you really love people, and that’s good!’ — that just made me really happy. It was very touching.”

Cady was presented the award at the College of Nursing Alumni Association (CONAA) at a holiday party at the CMMC College of Nursing and Health Professions in Lewiston. Several other nursing students were recognized for academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement, including: Meredith Hatch of North Conway, N.H.; Barbara Grant of Leeds; Susan Sebestyen of Gray; Amy Moody of Wells; Heidi MacLean-Marafa of South Portland; Christina Lavoie of Turner; Bonnie Trundy of Hebron; and Sherryann St. Pierre of New Gloucester. Cady was also recognized for her academic achievement. They were each presented certificates from Who’s Who Among Students.

The Elsie Lauten Award honors Elsie Murchison Lauten, R.N., who showed a special concern for the welfare of older patients throughout a nursing career that began in 1940. Lauten was also dedicated to the nursing alumni association and was the inspiration for the organization’s newsletter that is currently mailed to over 900 members.

The CMMC College of Nursing and Health Professions offers certificate and associate in applied science degree programs. Anyone seeking more information is urged to visit www.cmmcCollege.edu or call 207-795-2840.