On Friday, December 13, 2024, Vincent J. Contento, MSN, CRNA, was celebrated for his significant contributions to the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing’s Nurse Anesthesia Program during their 2024 graduation ceremony at the University Club. Vince, based at UPMC Shadyside, was recognized as the longest-tenured Student Registered Nurse Anesthetist (SRNA) Coordinator in the program’s history.
Over his 30-year career at UPMC Shadyside, Vince has dedicated more than 25,000 hours to clinical preceptorship, training, and mentoring over 500 individual SRNAs. His steadfast commitment to education and excellence has profoundly shaped generations of nurse anesthetists, leaving an indelible impact on the profession.
In recognition of his extraordinary service, a new annual award has been established in his honor. The Vincent Contento SRNA Preceptor Service Award will be presented each year to an exemplary clinical preceptor, cementing Vince’s legacy as a cornerstone of the program.
Congratulations to Vince on this well-deserved honor and for his remarkable contributions to advancing nurse anesthesia education!