Hospital for Special Care Announces 2026 Nightingale Award for Nursing Recipients
May 6, 2026Three nurses from Hospital for Special Care—Heather Hancort, Milkent Pinote, and Jennifer Soto—have been recognized with the prestigious Nightingale Award for Nursing for their outstanding contributions to patient care, mentorship, and the nursing profession. The Nightingale Awards, which honored recipients last night at the Connecticut Convention Center, recognize nurses who embody excellence, compassion, and leadership—qualities that are deeply reflected in the work of this year’s honorees.
Through their unwavering dedication, clinical expertise, and commitment to supporting both patients and colleagues, these nurses represent the very best of the Hospital for Special Care’s mission. Their achievements not only elevate the standard of care within the organization but also make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
Heather Hancort, APRN, MSN, FNP-B, CCRN
Heather Hancort is known for being patient and deeply committed to teaching, consistently creating a supportive, learning-focused environment. Her guidance builds confidence, strengthens clinical judgment, and fosters a culture of learning that elevates the entire team.
Heather’s dedication extends well beyond her scheduled hours. She routinely checks in on her patients during her days off, ensuring continuity of care and strong outcomes. She also forms meaningful connections with families, taking time to explain complex medical information so they can make informed decisions. In her clinical role, Heather demonstrates excellence through her attention to detail and proactive approach to pharmacology, helping to reduce polypharmacy (taking five or more medications regularly, which can lead to problems) and improve patient outcomes. Her commitment to the community is reflected in her ability to combine empathy with education, “empowering families to make informed decisions during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”
Throughout her career, Heather has made a lasting impact by empowering nurses and CNAs with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. She does not simply fulfill her duties, she elevates the practice of nursing for everyone around her.
Milkent Pinote, RN, BSN
Milkent Pinote has been honored as a Nightingale Award recipient for his outstanding leadership, commitment to patient care, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of nurses.
As a Charge Nurse, Milkent is known for his strong clinical judgment and situational awareness, effectively coordinating staffing, patient care, and resources to ensure safety and quality outcomes. His calm, organized leadership during high acuity situations provides reassurance to both patients and staff, while fostering a collaborative environment where nurses feel heard and empowered to grow professionally.
Milkent consistently goes beyond expectations, leading by example during challenging shifts. In one instance, he demonstrated exceptional leadership during a short-staffed night shift, stepping in to provide direct patient care while coordinating urgent interventions for a patient experiencing an acute change in condition. He remained beyond his scheduled hours to ensure “all residents were safe, comfortable, and appropriately monitored,” reflecting his deep commitment to patient well-being.
Beyond the clinical setting, Milkent’s impact extends into the community through volunteer service and mentorship initiatives. Through active involvement with his church and youth‑focused initiatives, Milkent has dedicated time and expertise to supporting underserved populations. His nominator notes that “by translating complex health concepts into practical, accessible guidance, Milkent empowers individuals to take ownership of their health and make informed decisions that positively impact their long‑term well‑being.”
Jennifer Soto, LPN
Jennifer Soto has been recognized as a Nightingale Award recipient for her exceptional contributions to patient care, mentorship to other nurses, and nursing expertise.
Since joining Hospital for Special Care in 2006, Jennifer has become a cornerstone of clinical excellence and mentorship, widely respected as a trusted resource across units. She is known for generously sharing her knowledge and creating a supportive and empowering environment where nurses feel confident seeking guidance and growing professionally.
Jennifer consistently goes beyond expectations, frequently volunteering for additional shifts to ensure continuity of care and support for her team. Her dedication allows pediatric patients to attend critical appointments and activities that enhance their quality of life. She approaches each patient as if they were a member of her own family, advocating tirelessly and providing reassurance to both patients and families.
Beyond her clinical role, Jennifer has made a significant impact on the broader nursing community. As a preceptor for nursing students, she fosters a learning environment where students feel supported and empowered, ensuring they gain both clinical skills and “an understanding of the compassion and advocacy that define exceptional nursing care.”
With nearly two decades of service, Jennifer’s legacy is defined by the countless nurses she has mentored and the patients she has served.