Susan Gerard, senior director for growth and clinical services at Vidant Beaufort Hospital, is one of eight nurses inducted earlier this month into the Hall of Fame at the East Carolina University College of Nursing.

“I am very honored and appreciative of this recognition,” Gerard said. “I do believe in the profession of nursing, and I hope this will help more young people enter the profession.”

The ECU College of Nursing Hall of Fame was established by the college to recognize the service of nurses, who by virtue of their contributions, are considered to be among the most highly regarded nurse leaders and to whom ECU alumni and friends are most grateful.

The Hall of Fame provides public recognition for the significant effect that the nurse has had to the advancement of nursing through clinical practice, teaching, administration and research. It also serves as a fundraising effort by the college.

“The Hall of Fame recognizes nurses who carry forth the ECU College of Nursing tradition of excellence in clinical practice, teaching, research, and leadership,” said Dr. Sylvia Brown, dean of the College of Nursing.

Each inductee received a flame-shaped award resembling the nursing pin designed by the first nursing class at ECU.

A graduate of Washington High School, Gerard earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the ECU School of Nursing and studied toward a master’s degree in administrative services at ECU. She previously served as medical practice administrator, interim chief executive officer and chief executive officer for Beaufort Regional Health System and worked in several roles for Beaufort County Hospital.

Earlier this year, Gerard received the Beaufort County Chamber of Commerce 2011-2012 Community Leader of the Year Award.

She and her husband, Al, live at Blounts Creek and have three children.

Other inductees at the March 16 ceremony were Linda Burhans of Wilson, Martha Dartt of Greenville, Nettie Evans of Ayden, Sue Lassiter of Ahoskie, Joanne Stevens of Raleigh and Carmen Vincent and Anna Weaver, both of Greenville. All are ECU alumni.

Also honored was Helen M. Brinson, who received the 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award. Brinson recently retired after a long career as director of nursing education with the Eastern Area Health Education Center. The award recognizes exemplary contributions to the nursing profession.

More than $51,000 raised through the creation of the Hall of Fame supports a fund providing merit-based scholarships for nursing students.

The launching of the Hall of Fame program in 2011 coincided with the 50th anniversary of nursing education at ECU.