Joy Reed, EdD, RN, was honored as the 2014 recipient of the Ronald Levine Legacy Award in recognition of her lifetime of contributions to public health in North Carolina. Named for former North Carolina State Health Director Dr. Ron Levine, the annual award honors individuals whose work and commitment on behalf of the public's health has resulted in significant, sustainable and positive improvements to health and quality of life in North Carolina.
Dr. Reed has held the position of Head of Public Health Nursing and Professional Development since June 1995, and has served in several other lead positions for the Division of Public Health. Since 2002, Dr. Reed has led the Division's Accreditation Program, making North Carolina one of only a few states in the nation to have such a program. In addition, Dr. Reed has also served on various national committees presenting herself and North Carolina in a professional and progressive manner.
In light of her passion for public health and nursing, the Joy F. Reed EdD, RN, FAAN Leadership Scholarship has been created in honor of Dr. Reed's loyalty and dedication to the advancement of public health nursing in the great state of North Carolina.
Dr. Reed began her nursing career over 40 years ago, earning her BSN from Duke University, a Master's in Community Health from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and an Education Doctorate from North Carolina State University. She was a Robert Wood Johnson Fellow and was the only public health nurse in her cohort. In 2008, she was given the Pearl McIver Public Health Nursing Award by the American Nurses Association and was inducted into the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN), the highest honor bestowed upon a nurse. In 2010, Dr. Reed was recognized by Duke University as a Distinguished Alumnus. Through this progression of higher education and awards, Dr. Reed has displayed a character that exemplifies excellence in nursing scholarship and professionalism.