Ecumen North Branch Nurse Honored as Nurse of the Year by Care Providers of Minnesota

NORTH BRANCH, MN (November 12, 2026) — Ecumen North Branch nurse, Theresa Wederath, was recognized this week as Care Providers of Minnesota Nurse of the Year. This honor is reserved for caregivers whose impact reaches far beyond the boundaries of their job description.

“For those who have worked alongside Theresa, this recognition comes as no surprise,” said Justin Boldt, Ecumen North Branch executive director. “Every day, she brings together exceptional clinical expertise, unwavering advocacy, and a genuine commitment to ensuring that every resident receives the individualized, dignified, and compassionate care they deserve.”

Care Providers of Minnesota is a nonprofit membership association working with organizations that provide services along the full spectrum of post-acute care and long-term services and support. Each year, it recognizes a nurse who goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care. 

“As a nurse myself, I know that exceptional nursing is about more than clinical expertise. It is about building relationships, advocating for those we serve, and bringing compassion and sound judgment to every interaction,” said Cyrus Batheja, RN, EdD, MBA, FAAN, Ecumen president and CEO. “Theresa embodies these values through her dedication to residents, her leadership among colleagues, and her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her and this well-deserved recognition.” 

Wederath accepted the award on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the Care Providers of Minnesota Annual Convention and Exposition in Shakopee, Minn. 

“While I’ll be taking this award home, it does not belong to me alone,” Wederath said. “It belongs to every nurse I’ve had the privilege of working alongside, every CAN who has taught me valuable lessons, every resident I’ve cared for and every person who has believed in and empowered me, especially during the times I didn’t believe in myself.”