DPH recognizes South Carolina’s nurses during National Nurses Week

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Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)–The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) is observing National Nurses Week across the state, said DPH.

National Nurses Week is celebrated annually May 6 through May 12, and DPH is using the week to celebrate the 96,260 licensed nurses across the state.

DPH said approximately 400 public health nurses work at the agency’s clinics and in the community in every South Carolina county.

In April, six DPH nurses were recipients of the 2025 Palmetto Gold award: Ivy Howard, Tina Rumph, Michele D. Plenzler, Stephanie Derr, Enderia Mitchell, and Sharon Bennett.

Only 100 registered nurses are selected statewide per year following a nomination process based on excellence in nursing practice and commitment to the nursing profession, said DPH.

“DPH is proud and honored to celebrate our 2025 DPH Palmetto Gold Public Health Nurses for their dedication, expert leadership, outstanding practice, and achievements,” said Kathryn Gramling, DPH’s State Director of Public Health Nursing.

South Carolinians are encouraged to thank the nurses in the community.