Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (AZ Blue) announces this year's winners of the Nurses Who Inspire contest, recognizing Arizona nurses whose compassion, leadership and dedication make a lasting difference in the lives of patients, families and communities across the state. Each nurse will receive $5,000 and tickets to a future Arizona Diamondbacks Game.

"Arizona's nurses are often the first to comfort, advocate for and care for people during life's most challenging moments," said Dr. Cara Christ, Chief Medical Officer at AZ Blue. "This year's winners exemplify the very best of the nursing profession through their compassion, innovation and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others."

AZ Blue congratulates the following nurses for receiving this year’s honor:

Jason Bradley - A nurse leader, educator and advocate, Jason Bradley serves as Director of Nursing for college students while continuing to care for patients in the ICU. Upon receiving the award, Jason commented:

“My passion and optimism for life and nursing are prevalent in all that I do. Being selected for this award further fuels my passion to be the best nurse, advocate, leader, mentor, and human possible.”

Angelica Hibbs - a Family Nurse Practitioner and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant focused on caring for mothers and babies. Upon receiving the award, Angelica commented:

“I absolutely love my nursing career. Being a nurse helped me grow as an individual and given me the opportunity to make an impact in the health of my community by starting with helping the tinniest members of our community feed. “

Madison Swank - As a lead registered nurse, Madison Swank provides specialized care for children with complex medical needs. Upon receiving the award, Madison commented:

“Nursing brings an incredible sense of purpose to my life, and working with children is where that purpose feels most profound. I hope that every child I care for feels a little safer, a little more confident, and a little more supported because I was part of their journey.”

Selected from nominations submitted by colleagues, family members, patients and community members across Arizona, the three honorees represent the extraordinary impact nurses have every day through compassionate care, advocacy, education and service.

For more information about the Nurses Who Inspire contest, and the 2026 winners, visit: www.azblue.com/inspire-health/blog/celebrating-arizonas-2026-nurses-who-inspire

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AZ Blue Honors Three Arizona Nurses Through Nurses Who Inspire Contest