Media contact: Holly Gainer
Maria Shirey, Ph.D.Maria Shirey, Ph.D., a professor and associate dean for Clinical and Global Partnerships at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing, received the American Organization of Nurse Executives Foundation Nurse Researcher Award. The award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to nursing and health systems research.
Shirey is internationally recognized for her research in nursing leadership and management. Through her research, Shirey has addressed multiple AONE priorities, including developing core competencies of nurse leaders across the care continuum to support current and emerging roles; supporting the design and implementation of care delivery and health management models; and supporting the provision of safe, quality care and delivery systems grounded in healthful practice.
“My research has identified the systems and support structures nurse managers need in order to be successful in their roles,” Shirey said. “Nurse managers are crucial because they lead from the middle. They’re the voice that really articulates the mission and vision of an organization in ways that benefit the patients and families we serve.”
Shirey’s impact on nursing and practice across UAB has been seen throughout her time on campus. As principal investigator of a four-year, $2.8 million Health Resources and Services Administration grant project to develop a resilient primary care registered nurse workforce, Shirey is developing the next generation of RNs who will work in medically underserved areas and work toward chronic disease prevention and control.
Shirey also has been instrumental in opening a nurse-managed, interprofessional transitional care clinic for heart failure patients.
“For me, receiving the AONE nurse researcher award is an incredible honor. It’s recognition of the value and impact of my work over a long and productive career,” Shirey said. “This is an award for which I was nominated by colleagues in my field, and that makes it even more special.”