The Emergency Department at Cooper University Health Care’s Camden flagship has been honored with the prestigious Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Lantern Award, marking one of the highest distinctions achievable in emergency nursing.
The national accolade recognizes emergency departments that demonstrate exceptional performance and leadership across nursing practice, education, advocacy, research, and innovation. Out of nearly 6,000 emergency departments nationwide, only about 90 to 100 hospitals achieve the Lantern Award during each cycle, placing Cooper among an elite group setting the highest standards for patient care and healthy work environments.
A high-volume, high-acquiring trauma center
As South Jersey’s only Level I Trauma Center, Cooper’s Camden Emergency Department is one of the region’s busiest, treating nearly 86,000 patients annually. In 2025 alone, the team cared for 85,903 patients, managing everything from everyday medical emergencies to critical, life-threatening trauma.
Named in honor of Florence Nightingale—historically known as the “Lady of the Lamp”—the Lantern Award celebrates emergency units that embody exceptional clinical dedication, teamwork, and continuous professional growth.
“This recognition reflects the extraordinary dedication, expertise, and compassion of our emergency department team,” Kathy Devine, senior vice president and chief nursing executive for Cooper University Health Care, said. “Every day, our nurses care for patients facing some of the most critical moments of their lives. Receiving the ENA Lantern Award is a testament to their unwavering commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, teamwork, and delivering the highest quality care.”
Stephanie Prendergast, clinical director of Cooper’s Emergency Department, added, “Every day, our nurses, physicians, technicians, and support staff work collaboratively to provide exceptional care while fostering an environment of innovation, compassion, and continuous learning.”
Hospital leadership also highlighted the pivotal role of Cooper Clinical Educator Danielle Kobner, RN, whose dedication helped guide the multi-disciplinary team through the rigorous application and documentation process.
