Frances Piso, a student in Fayetteville Technical Community College’s Surgical First Assistant (SFA) Program, has been named a recipient of the National Association of Surgical Assistants’ inaugural Scholars of Excellence Award. This newly established national honor recognizes exceptional surgical assistant students who demonstrate academic excellence, professionalism and a strong commitment to the future of the profession. 

As one of the very first recipients of this award, Piso has earned a distinction that reflects her dedication, work ethic and passion for patient care. To be eligible for this honor, students must be enrolled in a CAAHEP-accredited Surgical First Assistant program, have completed at least 50% of the program curriculum and maintained a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale. 

In addition to those measures, the student must also demonstrate integrity, reliability and accountability in both classroom and clinical settings; exhibit dedication to the surgical assisting profession through participation in professional organizations, outreach or peer support; and demonstrate compassion, respect and a commitment to patient safety in clinical practice. 

“Frances represents the very best of the SFA profession and the next generation of surgical assistants,” said FTCC’s Division Chair of Surgical Services Terry Herring in a press release. “We are proud to see her recognized on a national level and honored to support her continued success in surgical services.”