JAMESTOWN, N.D. (JRMC) – Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC) is proud to announce Deb Falk, RN, as the recipient of the 2026 Nora Melvold Paulson Award. This prestigious award recognizes a JRMC nurse who exemplifies outstanding dedication to nursing education, clinical excellence and leadership. Falk was selected for her extraordinary contributions to education and her lasting impact on caregivers across the organization. Throughout her many years at JRMC, she has served as a mentor, educator and advocate, helping to shape both individual nurses and the overall culture of learning within the medical center.
In 2021, Falk played a key role in establishing JRMC’s Education Department, creating a sustainable framework that now supports learning and professional development across the organization. With Falk’s support and expertise, JRMC expanded educational resources, standardized training processes and introduced new opportunities for staff development.
Colleagues who nominated Falk emphasized her lasting impact on staff and recognized her willingness to share knowledge, encourage professional growth and support caregivers across all levels of experience.
“Deb is a trusted resource, an exceptional educator and a dedicated advocate for JRMC’s mission and excellence,” said Lili Ruby in her nomination. “Her confidence, decisiveness and fearless pursuit of excellence inspire those around her to grow, think differently and rise to a higher standard.”
Beyond her work within JRMC, Falk has shared her expertise throughout the community by providing CPR, ACLS and PALS instruction for local organizations and healthcare professionals. Her dedication to mentorship, education and patient advocacy has influenced caregivers across all levels of expertise and strengthened JRMC’s commitment to excellence in patient care.
The Nora Paulson Award recipient is voted upon by their peers. The award provides an annual grant to a JRMC nurse who consistently embodies a commitment to excellence in nursing education and clinical care. Award recipients can use the grant to their discretion, with many using it for education and training. Brian and Nancy Spector established the Nora Paulson Award in 2011 through the JRMC Foundation. The award honors the memory of Nora Melvold Paulson, a nurse who worked at JRMC for over 30 years and was known for providing compassionate care and mentorship to her fellow nurses. The recipient of the Nora Paulson Award is selected annually by a vote of JRMC nurses and nursing leadership.
Feature photo: Nora Paulson Award Winner Deb Falk
