Debby Dailey Awarded the 2025 Florence Nightingale Medal

On this year’s International Nurses Day, Debby Dailey has been awarded the prestigious Florence Nightingale Medal by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). This is the highest international distinction a nurse can receive, honoring exceptional courage, unwavering dedication to caring for the wounded and vulnerable, and outstanding contributions to public health and nursing education.

The Florence Nightingale Medal celebrates individuals who embody a pioneering spirit in nursing. Debby Dailey’s lifelong commitment to supporting disaster victims exemplifies this legacy. Recipients are nominated by their National Red Cross or Red Crescent Society and selected by a joint commission of the ICRC, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the International Council of Nurses—underscoring the global significance of this honor.

Debby’s journey with the Red Cross began in 1980 after her family experienced a devastating home fire. Inspired by the support they received and by her grandmother, a Red Cross Gray Lady, Debby joined the organization to give back. A former firefighter and a registered nurse, she has since become a cornerstone of disaster response efforts across Central California and beyond.

Four Decades of Disaster Response

For over 40 years, Debby has responded to dozens of disasters annually, ranging from single-family fires to large-scale national emergencies. Whether battling wildfires in California, supporting flood victims or comforting families after mass shootings, she brings compassion and resilience to every mission.

Her commitment extends far beyond her home state. During the response to Superstorm Sandy, Debby traversed New York City and Long Island to assist individuals with disabilities and immigrant communities. She also served on the Integrated Condolence Care Team following the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, offering strength and empathy to grieving families and fellow responders alike.

Even in smaller-scale emergencies, Debby goes the extra mile—literally. She has traveled deep into the mountains of Yosemite National Forest to deliver medication and medical equipment to individuals affected by fires in rural areas.

Debby has dedicated much of her career to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals. As a clinical nursing instructor for 30 years, she ensured that students received disaster training and participated in Red Cross Academic Service-Learning (AS-L) activities. She continued mentoring them after graduation, organizing regular gatherings to support their transition into the nursing profession.

Her efforts paid off. At one point, 60% of the Disaster Health Services nurses in California’s Central Valley had been her students. One memorable initiative saw her students raise $24,000 in a “Fill the Boot” campaign for wildfire victims.

Debby also trains EMTs, paramedics and nursing students to operate in emergency shelters and disaster settings, significantly expanding the pool of healthcare professionals ready to respond when disasters strike.

Debby is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and mental well-being. In 2018, she introduced HeartMath resilience techniques to Red Cross nurse leaders, helping them manage stress and improve performance. She shared her own experience with ADHD, noting that these techniques halved her medication needs and enhanced her ability to serve others.

She is committed to ensuring that all volunteers feel safe and supported. She championed the inclusion of a legally blind volunteer, ensuring she could contribute meaningfully to disaster response across the country—an effort that led to the volunteer receiving an award for her service. These efforts continue to help make local disaster relief efforts more inclusive and equitable.

Inspired by Clara Barton, Debby also organized a group of nurses to create quilts for families affected by disasters and for veterans in need. These quilts, often personalized with names of firefighters or responders, offer comfort and honor to those who have experienced loss. For Debby and her team, quilting is both a stress reliever and a deeply meaningful way to provide care.

A Tireless Humanitarian – A Legacy of Service and Compassion

Debby Dailey exemplifies the Red Cross mission. She understands that effective service delivery requires advocating for the well-being of both clients and volunteers. Her work has strengthened communities, empowered future nurses and brought comfort to thousands across her community and beyond.

Before joining the Red Cross, Debby was already breaking barriers as one of the first female firefighters at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Today, she continues to serve as a registered nurse and clinical educator.

Debby Dailey is the embodiment of humanitarian service. With over 43 years of service—35 of them as a nurse—Debby continues to recruit, train and inspire others. Her impact is immeasurable, and her dedication unwavering.

Our gratitude runs deep for leaders like Debby whose decades of tireless work make her more than deserving of the Florence Nightingale Medal. The American Red Cross is honored to celebrate her contributions on International Nurses Day.