Oncology Nursing Foundation Celebrates Excellence in Oncology Nursing Mentorship

(May 15, 2024) PITTSBURGH, PA -The Oncology Nursing Foundation announces the recipient of the 2024 Connie Henke Yarbro Excellence in Cancer Nursing Mentorship Award is Jonathan Anotado Gapilango, MSN, RN, NE-BC, OCN® 

 Gapilango is an administrative director of oncology performance measures and accreditation at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. Gapilango was honored at the Oncology Nursing Foundation donor reception at the 49th Annual ONS Congress® in Washington, DC.  

The Connie Henke Yarbro Excellence in Cancer Nursing Mentorship Award was established to recognize and support excellence in oncology nursing mentorship, in the name of a founding member of the Oncology Nursing Society and the Foundation, Connie Henke Yarbro, MS, RN, FAAN.

“This award is a testament to the value of mentorship in nurturing competence and compassion in oncology nursing practice,” Gapilango said. “I am privileged to play a role in shaping the future of oncology care through mentorship, guidance, and advocacy for excellence in patient care. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue growing as a mentor and positively impact the next generation of oncology nurses.”

Gapilango's career in nursing spans more than three decades, beginning with his BSN completion at Central Philippine University in 1993, before moving to the United States in 1995. Jonathan continued his education with postgraduate studies at STI West Negros University in the Philippines and is currently pursuing a DNP in New Jersey at Thomas Edison State University. Evident in Gapilango’s career is his dedication to mentorship and support of aspiring oncology nurses. His mentorship extends beyond individual guidance, encompassing significant contributions to the development of oncology nursing through his active involvement in professional associations and his impending leadership as Philippine Nurses Association of New Jersey President. 

“Being awarded the 2024 Oncology Nursing Foundation Connie Henke Yarbro Excellence in Cancer Nursing Mentorship Award signifies Jonathan’s remarkable accomplishments within the field of oncology nursing,” Marley A. Nicolas, MSN, RN, one of Gapilango’s nominators, said. “This esteemed award exemplifies his profound influence on patient care and the professional growth of aspiring nurses, which recognizes his steadfast commitment, expertise, and leadership. Jonathan’s dedication to mentoring and achieving high standards in oncology nursing is an exemplary model that motivates and encourages others to emulate his achievements.”

The Oncology Nursing Society created the Oncology Nursing Foundation in 1981 to accept charitable contributions to advance important activities on behalf of oncology nursing. The mission of the Oncology Nursing Foundation is to support oncology nursing excellence. Thanks to the generosity of individuals and institutions over the years, the Oncology Nursing Foundation has awarded more than $32 million in funding since its inception for oncology nursing education, research, and leadership development, giving nurses the opportunity to pursue excellence in delivering care to patients with cancer.