The Texas Nurses Association (TNA) recognized Jacklyn “Jacki” Hecht, Julie Zuñiga and Veronica “Ronnie” Walker, all faculty members at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, among its 25 Outstanding Texas Nurses for 2026.
This recognition highlights their exceptional contributions to nursing practice, education, research, and the health of people in Texas and beyond. The selection process is highly competitive; in 2026, more than 240 nominations were reviewed by the TNA awards committee, with final selections approved by the TNA board of directors. Selected nurses were announced at the start of National Nurses Week on May 6 and will be honored at a gala in June.
Jacki Hecht, Project Coordinator of Johnson-Turpin Center for Gerontological Nursing
Hecht was recognized for her statewide leadership in advancing evidence-based practice and improving care in long-term care settings. Through a major quality improvement initiative, she identified infection control as a critical need across Texas facilities and led collaborative efforts to address this challenge through accessible education and system-level change. Her work includes the development of continuing education programs and webinars that have reached thousands of healthcare providers, demonstrating measurable improvements in infection prevention knowledge and practices.
In addition, Hecht, who has a Master of Science in Nursing, has advanced interprofessional education by equipping students across multiple health disciplines with the skills to support patient behavior change through compassionate communication and motivational interviewing.
Julie Zuñiga, Associate Professor
Zuñiga was honored for her global leadership in nursing education, mentorship and international collaboration. She plays a key role in an international consortium that develops educational programs, fosters research partnerships and strengthens nursing capacity in low-resource settings. Her leadership has guided cross-national research initiatives, including collaborative studies on diabetes management and pressure injury prevention, while also mentoring students and faculty members across countries. Zuñiga has expanded opportunities for global learning through exchange programs and has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting nurses worldwide, including establishing a nonprofit organization that enabled international nurses to participate in and contribute to global nursing conferences.
Ronnie Walker, Clinical Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Professional Development and Scholarship
Walker was recognized for her impactful research and teaching innovations focused on mental health and vulnerable populations. Her work has centered on improving the well-being of women with schizophrenia spectrum disorders residing in long-term care facilities, using qualitative research to elevate patient voices and inform interventions addressing social isolation.
In parallel, she has developed innovative teaching strategies that foster connection and belonging among nursing students, including individualized engagement approaches that enhance student support and success. Walker’s integration of research, education and compassionate care exemplifies a commitment to improving both patient outcomes and the future nursing workforce.
The achievements of Jacki Hecht, Julie Zuñiga and Ronnie Walker underscore the far-reaching impact of nursing leadership in improving health outcomes, advancing knowledge and strengthening communities.
Article originally published on UT News.