MADERA, Calif. – The legacy of a beloved Valley Children’s nurse will continue to inspire caregivers through a new annual recognition focused on professional growth and development.
Team members from the Explorer unit, an inpatient post-surgical unit at Valley Children’s, recently presented the first Honey Bee Award, created in honor of Honey Monocillo, a longtime Explorer nurse who passed in August 2025.
The award reflects Monocillo’s deep commitment to professional development and mentorship, qualities colleagues say defined her career and left a lasting impact on the unit.
“Honey was very hardworking, dedicated and always ready to help, and she was a champion advocate of professional and personal advancement,” said Rita Santiago, a registered nurse in acute care in the Explorer unit who knew Monocillo for ten years. “Her unwavering dedication set a remarkable standard. While others may strive for perfection, Honey’s commitment was unparalleled.”
The recognition is designed to encourage ongoing learning and growth among members of the Explorer team – a cause that was especially important to Monocillo. The award, which includes a Honey Bee pin, a certificate and a $300 development award will be presented each June – the month of Monocillo’s birth.
The first recipient was Brittney Fudge, a registered nurse in acute care in the Explorer unit.
“Honey left behind a legacy that continues to inspire nurses across our organization, and I am truly honored to be the first recipient of an award that celebrates her impact,” Fudge said.
Monocillo was known for sharing her expertise and helping colleagues advance professionally, Fudge said.
“Honey was an incredible resource and a wealth of knowledge,” Fudge said. “She was always my go-to person for questions about the clinical ladder or any other topic, and she consistently took the time to help others learn and grow.”
Monocillo’s example continues to influence Fudge’s approach to nursing and supporting her colleagues, she shared.
“Her dedication to supporting and developing her colleagues inspired me to become that same kind of resource for others,” Fudge said. “I strive to continuously expand my knowledge so I can better support my peers and contribute to the safe, high-quality care that our hospital provides to every patient.”
For many members of the Explorer team, the award serves as both a tribute and a reminder of Monocillo’s enduring influence.
The inaugural presentation included moments of laughter, tears and celebration as colleagues shared memories and reflected on the difference she made throughout her career.
“Honey’s passing had a significant impact on the Explorer team,” said Brittany Meyer, acute care manager. “The Honey Bee Award has been one way for us to continue remembering and honoring her, and presenting the first award brought back good memories and happy tears.”
“She was the epitome of an extraordinary nurse and a visionary leader with a heart always supporting improvement for anyone and anything she believed had potential,” Santiago added. “To carry on her legacy this way is not only born out of love, awe and respect for her – but also out of gratitude for how Honey has served this unit and the organization.”
As the Honey Bee Award becomes an annual tradition, Valley Children’s caregivers hope it will continue to reflect the values Monocillo championed throughout her career – supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge and investing in professional growth.
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