Cecilia Burkeen, RN

Cecilia Burkeen, RN is a highly experienced registered nurse with 26 years dedicated to patient care across medical-surgical units, long-term care, and hospice. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to clinical excellence, leadership, and compassionate care, earning the trust of patients, families, and colleagues alike. Her approach to nursing has always emphasized connection and individualized attention, ensuring that each patient receives care that respects their dignity and needs.

Burkeen served as the charge nurse in a hospital medical-surgical unit, overseeing daily operations, coordinating interdisciplinary rounds with physicians and staff, and mentoring new nurses. She also brought her extensive hospice expertise to the hospital as a hospice liaison, a role for which she was honored with a Daisy Award for exceptional compassion and clinical skill. Her experience in long-term care and as a hospice case manager further broadened her understanding of patient needs across the continuum of care, allowing her to provide holistic and empathetic support at every stage.

Her professional journey reflects adaptability, dedication, and a passion for teaching and mentorship. Burkeen has been involved in multiple hospital committees, including end-of-life care and care coordination, and has trained countless nurses to build confidence and competence in their practice. Her expertise, combined with her ability to connect with patients and families, has made her a respected leader and advocate for patient-centered care.

Even after retiring in April, Burkeen continues to maintain her nursing license and certifications, with plans to return part-time to continue serving patients. Outside of nursing, she cherishes time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and remains committed to the values that guided her career: empathy, presence, and the profound impact of compassionate care. Cecilia Burkeen’s career stands as a testament to the enduring influence of a skilled, dedicated, and caring nurse.

• Sampson Community College – Nursing Program

• Stroke Certification
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

• Daisy Award – Hospice Liaison Role

• Relay for Life, Randolph County, Arkansas – Cancer Survivor Advocate and Event Organizer