Spencer Hospital Nurses Recognized as 2026 Great Iowa Nurses
Spencer Hospital is proud to announce that two of its exceptional nurses, Cassie Oleson, RN, of Abben Cancer Center, and Abigail Madden, RN, of the Intensive Care Unit, have been recognized as 2026 Great Iowa Nurses, a statewide honor celebrating nurses who go above and beyond to provide safe, compassionate care and serve as leaders and mentors in their profession. For Spencer Hospital, the recognition of Oleson and Madden reflects the excellence found throughout its nursing team.
Brenda Tiefenthaler, Spencer Hospital President and CEO, said the recognition is well deserved and reflects the tremendous impact both nurses have on patients and colleagues alike. “Abby and Cassie represent the very best of nursing,” said Tiefenthaler. “They bring extraordinary clinical skill, compassion and professionalism to every patient interaction, and they elevate those around them through mentorship and leadership. They are trusted by patients, respected by their peers, and valued across our organization. We are incredibly proud to see them recognized as Great Iowa Nurses.”
The Great Iowa Nurses program traces its roots to 2004, when 100 Great Iowa Nurses was established to honor outstanding nurses across the state. After being hosted by the University of Iowa through 2020, the program returned in 2022 as Great Iowa Nurses, continuing its mission to recognize nurses who routinely go above and beyond in patient care, share their expertise to improve the health of their communities, and serve as role models for fellow nurses.
Oleson has served patients at Spencer Hospital for 12 years and currently provides care at Abben Cancer Center, where she has worked since 2016. Her career has included nursing roles in Virginia Beach, Des Moines, and Spencer, with experience spanning trauma care, surgery recovery and oncology.
“I feel very humbled,” said Oleson. “There are so many incredible nurses doing amazing work every day. To be recognized in this way is truly special, and it motivates me to keep striving to provide the best care I can. It’s such a blessing to work alongside what I truly believe are the best of the best. I’m so proud to be part of this team.”
Madden joined Spencer Hospital four and a half years ago after earning her nursing degree from Iowa Lakes Community College and later completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Iowa. Since 2021, she has served in Spencer Hospital’s ICU, providing critical care and support to patients and families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
“It’s such an honor,” said Madden. “I never expected something like this, and it really reflects the team I work with. Nursing is never a solo effort. I’m just incredibly grateful to be part of such a supportive and compassionate group of people.”
Jen Dau, Spencer Hospital Vice President of Nursing, said both nurses exemplify the compassion and commitment Spencer Hospital patients experience every day.
“Abby and Cassie are two of the incredible nurses our patients have the privilege of working with each day,” said Dau. “They lead with compassion, advocate for their patients, and consistently go the extra mile to provide exceptional care. Their recognition reflects not only their individual excellence, but the strength and dedication of our entire nursing team.”
The recognition of Oleson and Madden comes at a meaningful time as Spencer Hospital celebrates National Nurses Week and honors all nurses for the powerful role they play in healing and improving lives. This year’s theme, “The Power of Nurses,” highlights the extraordinary contributions, dedication and compassion nurses bring to healthcare every day.
Spencer Hospital congratulates Abby and Cassie again on this very special statewide recognition.
And to all the nurses at Spencer Hospital and across our communities, thank you for your dedication, your sacrifices, and the powerful difference you make every single day. Happy Nurses Week.