On Wednesday, January 17, the Nurses Honor Guard of East Central Alabama had the privilege of honoring Dr. Dorothea Anne Dillman RN.
Dorothea began her service to the field of healthcare in the United States Navy as a Corpswave and EKG Technician. She went on to attend Stoney Brook University (BSN) and later earned her MSN from the Medical College of Wisconsin. She then attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham for her DSN, and transferred to their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program. She eventually went on to earn her PhD in Nursing and Education from Calamus University in 2008.
Dorothea served the field of nursing for just short of 35 years. Her areas of expertise included trauma, ICU, and CVICU nursing. Throughout her years of service, Dorothea remained a beacon of compassion to her patients. Her selflessness knew no bounds, and she approached every patient with an abiding commitment to their well-being.
Dorothea’s most rewarding position, though, was as a clinical instructor for nursing students at Auburn University Montgomery (AUM). Dorothea imparted not only knowledge but also a profound sense of purpose to her students. Her dedication to the education of her students was a reflection of her belief that nurturing the minds and hearts of future nurses was as crucial as the technical skills they acquired. Her commitment to her students’ education was clearly evident when she went to the extent of providing transportation to and from clinicals for some of her students who didn’t have rides. Her students can provide countless additional stories exemplifying her love for teaching and her students.
Dorothea leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, compassion, and commitment to education. Her unwavering devotion to making a difference in the lives of others will continue to be a source of guidance and inspiration for her students, and all who knew her, for years to come.
Dr. Dorothea Dillman RN, we officially release you of your nursing duties, and we will proudly continue to carry the torch.
Nightingale Tribute Leader: Dr. Linda Gibson Young
Participants: Shari Busby, Penny Popwell, Judy Smith, Jennifer Striblin, Amanda Simmons