Erin Strickler Named an Outstanding Oregon Nurse Preceptor September 25, 2026 On her first day of orientation, a new nurse found herself paired with Labor & Delivery Nurse Preceptor Erin Strickler at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center. Like many nurses stepping into an unfamiliar role, she had questions, uncertainties and plenty to learn. Strickler met each moment with patience, guidance and encouragement, helping transform a nerve-racking first day into the beginning of a confident nursing career. That experience was shared by one of the nurses who nominated Strickler for Samaritan’s 2026 Outstanding Preceptor of the Year award, which is selected through a systemwide nomination and review process. Strickler has also been honored as one of the Outstanding Nurse Preceptors in the state by Oregon Center for Nursing. For more than five years, Strickler has served as a preceptor, helping nurses develop clinical skills, build confidence and find their place within the profession. “I’m appreciative,” Strickler said. “I enjoy teaching people and making them feel more confident in their craft.” Nominator Melissa Cortes recalled being paired with Strickler on her first day of orientation. “She took the time to explain many things to me and ensured I felt comfortable every step of the way,” Cortes wrote. “Erin believed in me, and for that I will always be grateful.” A second nominator described Strickler as a passionate and knowledgeable leader. “In my experience and observation, Erin creates a safe environment in which preceptees feel comfortable asking questions, which allows new nurses to grow, learn and feel welcome,” Andrea Ardans wrote. Strickler, a native to Corvallis who was educated through the LBCC nursing program has been a positive impact in the Center for Women & Famlies since she began her career at Good Sam more than eight years ago. She is also a two-time DAISY award winner. “Through her clinical expertise, commitment to education and dedication to developing others, Erin consistently serves as an outstanding role model and mentor,” said Jenni Copeland, Center for Women & Families manager. “Her ability to cultivate critical thinking, confidence and professional accountability in preceptees makes her an exceptional preceptor and a valuable asset to the nursing team.” Assistant Manager Christy Adair said Strickler’s effectiveness as a preceptor is grounded in her strong clinical practice and commitment to patient care. “Erin’s strength as a preceptor is rooted in her exceptional clinical competence and commitment to safe, high-quality patient care,” Adair said. “Her ability to make sound independent decisions, seek assistance when appropriate and accept responsibility for her actions serves as an excellent example for those she mentors.” Preceptors play a vital role in shaping the success of new nurses entering the profession. They serve as role models, teachers, coaches, learning facilitators, protectors, social integrators and evaluators, tailoring their approach to help each learner succeed. “Whether or not an orientee will thrive and feel at home in the profession is often heavily impacted by their preceptor,” said Jan Buhmann, Practice Transitions program manager. “When I work and round with our preceptors, I am in awe of their dedication, commitment and excellence in supporting our orientees.” For Strickler, the most rewarding part of the role is watching others grow. “I’ve precepted so many people. I like seeing them grow in their confidence, seeing them thrive in what they’re doing,” she said. “Knowing that maybe I helped their confidence, that’s my highlight. I want everyone to feel good about everything they do.” The Outstanding Preceptor Recognition program is held annually, with nominees and the recipient recognized each August. “One of my favorite parts of this year’s Outstanding Preceptor recognition program was reading the stories of how our preceptors have influenced others’ learning and professional growth,” said Katie Jensen, Workforce Development program manager. “After a scored review process, Erin was selected as the 2026 Outstanding Preceptor of the Year. The thoughtful stories we received speak to the incredible dedication, support and mentorship our preceptors provide to learners across Samaritan.” Strickler will be recognized with the state honor during a virtual award ceremony during Nursing Professional Development Week on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Staff can submit nominations year-round. The recognition cycle closes annually on July 1 with nominations received after that date automatically carried forward for consideration in the following year’s program.
