Donna Brester Honored for Excellence in Pediatric Critical Care

Brester’s influence spans from the high-pressure environment of Level One trauma centers to the classroom. After graduating from the Worcester City Hospital School of Nursing, she pursued advanced degrees at Western Governors University, eventually becoming a Nursing Professional Development Specialist. During her tenure at YNHHS, she was instrumental in onboarding pediatric staff and refining clinical procedures at the Children’s Hospital. Since September 2025, she has further extended her reach as an adjunct professor, focusing on the development of nursing students across Connecticut.

Her dedication extends beyond formal employment, as evidenced by her volunteer work with Camp Rising Sun, supporting families affected by childhood cancer. She maintains deep ties to professional organizations including the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and the Connecticut Nurses Honor Guard. Mentored by leaders such as Denine Baxter and the late Judy Nichols, Brester attributes her clinical philosophy to those early guides. As she moves through 2026, she is actively pursuing opportunities in remote healthcare leadership while continuing to advocate for rigorous safety standards and educational excellence in nursing.