This accolade recognizes Barrere’s outstanding contributions to the field of holistic nursing through her dedication to teaching, research and the application of best practices.

“I was surprised and excited to receive the Lifetime Achievement recognition. Contributing to the advancement of holistic nursing through teaching, research and best-practice application has been a wonderful journey,” Barrere said. “It is rewarding to hear students’ accounts of whole-person care as they learn to value and apply holistic concepts embodied in the faculty and staff throughout the School of Nursing.”

Barrere, a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing and a board-certified advanced holistic nurse, joined Quinnipiac in 2004. Her career spans clinical practice and research in oncology, cardiovascular nursing and end-of-life care, always guided by the holistic core values that emphasize whole-person care. In her current role, she instills these foundational concepts in both undergraduate and graduate nursing students, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance in body, mind and spirit.

“Exciting, too, are alumni who integrate the holistic core values into their practices and return to Quinnipiac to inspire students with their stories of healing through presence and compassion,” Barrere said. “I also feel grateful to have collaborated with holistic colleagues on a national level who empowered me to explore, reflect on and integrate holistic nursing into my entire practice and respect holistic self-care/life balance."

“I feel privileged to have furthered their efforts in advancing holistic nursing and hope holistic nurses to follow will continue to evolve holistic teaching, scholarship and practice to improve patient flourishing and outcomes,” she added.

Larry Slater, dean of Quinnipiac’s School of Nursing, said Barrere played a pivotal role in championing the school’s endorsement from the American Holistic Nurses Credentialing Corporation.

“The Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to Cindy’s unparalleled dedication and visionary leadership,” Slater said. “Cindy's foresight in shaping our curriculum toward holistic principles has not only attracted students across our programs but has also set our graduates apart in the field. This prestigious accolade is a well-deserved recognition of Cindy's tireless efforts and profound impact, not only within our School of Nursing but also within the broader nursing community."

Barrere holds a doctorate in medical sociology from the University of Connecticut. She also earned master’s degrees in sociology and nursing from UConn. Additionally, Barrere has a bachelor’s in nursing from Western Connecticut State University.

Barrere’s influence extends beyond the classroom. She has held leadership positions within the AHNA, where she has inspired enthusiasm for nursing scholarship through conference presentations, workshops and individual consultations. She initiated the AHNA’s research consultation program, significantly enhancing the use of scientific evidence among holistic nurses. Additionally, she serves as an associate editor for the Journal of Holistic Nursing and is on the editorial board of Holistic Nursing Practice.

The American Holistic Nurses Association is a non-profit membership association serving members and chapters across the U.S. and abroad. AHNA’s mission is to advance holistic nursing through community building, advocacy, research and education.