College of Nursing faculty honored with recent alumni achievement award
George Washington University honored Cheryl A. Thaxton, DNP, APRN, CPNP, FNP-BC, CHPPN, FPCN, FAANP, FAAN, with the Recent Alumni Achievement Award during the Spirit of GW Awards ceremony held in Washington, D.C., on October 25, 2025.
The award recognized Thaxton’s leadership, service, and dedication to nursing, education and the broader community.
Thaxton serves as UNT Health Fort Worth’s College of Nursing founding associate dean, professor and chair of graduate studies. She has worked for more than thirty years in pediatrics, family practice and palliative care. She leads national nursing education programs, teaches the End-of-Life Nursing Education Consortium curriculum internationally and mentors future nurse leaders. Professional organizations have recognized her contributions with the Estelle Osborne Legacy Award, the DFW Great 100 Nurses Award, and fellowships in both the American Academy of Nursing and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
“I am truly grateful to receive the Recent Alumni Achievement Award, Thaxton said. "Nursing has been both my calling and my passion for over 33 years. Serving patients and families and mentoring future nurse leaders inspires me every day. I deeply thank my students, colleagues, and the GW community for allowing me to contribute to this meaningful profession.”
“Dr. Thaxton represents the very best of GW. She inspires us all through her integrity, generosity, service, and dedication to the university,” said David Unruh, GW vice president for university advancement.
The Spirit of GW Awards Ceremony, part of GW’s Alumni & Families Weekend, celebrated alumni and friends who demonstrate integrity, generosity, and professional excellence while advancing the university’s mission. The awards highlight individuals who elevate standards of excellence in their professions, communities, and through engagement with GW.
Established in 2019, the Spirit of GW Awards honor outstanding alumni while continuing a tradition that dates back to 1937 with the Alumni Achievement Awards. By celebrating leaders like Thaxton, the university showcases individuals who advance professional excellence, strengthen communities, and carry forward GW’s enduring legacy.