The Legends Award is an 18-year tradition at NUMC. Director Toby Freier said recipients are those persons who inspire others to achieve great things and who are admired for their values, skill, talents and overall contribution to the mission of the medical center. 

Freier said Austvold was known for her big heart full of compassion, “working tirelessly for our patients and families from early in the morning into the evening, and investing in creating the exceptional culture we have today across NUMC.”

Austvold was nominated for the award by several individuals but touched thousands of lives including patients, families, and co-workers in her 38 years.

Austvold served as inpatient RN Care Coordinator but also contributed to the trailblazers and ethics committees, recognition party plays, mentoring students and more.

Former NUMC Inpatient RN Care Coordinator Laurie Austvold, speaks during a special ceremony honoring her as the 2022 recipient of the Legend of Medicine award.

Freier said shared that one of the nominations for Austvold said, “I have always thought of Laurie as an angel, always helping someone.”

He believed this was an accurate description of Austvold.

The ceremony included testimonials from several of Austvold’s former co-workers. 

Natasha Armstrong credited Austvold for training her at NUMC and serving as a mentor. She described Austvold as almost a second mother.

Deb Tauer said Austvold was known for going above and beyond. She would often stay late to help and never left anything undone. It was important to her to make sure everyone was cared for. Tauer specifically remembered one patient who needed to be transferred to Highland Manor, but there was no transport available. Austvold pushed the patient in a wheelchair up the hill to Highland herself. 

Sharie Novak described Austvold as “simply extraordinary.” As an RN, Austvold would also be willing to learn a new process and educate herself. As an RN and social worker, she provided support and empathy to families in need.

Dr. Scott Rysdahl appreciated Austvold’s ability to work with a smile on her face and her compassion for other people was inspiring. He also appreciated how she worked with others and never talked down to people.

Austvold gave a short interview about her career at NUMC. She said her career in health care began with her parents. She served as her dad’s nurse, helping treat animals on the farm. Her mother always wanted her to go into nursing

As an RN, Austvold enjoys training students. She said that helped keep her on her toes.

As for how she was able to always smile, she said it took less effort to smile than to frown, but credited it to creativity. Her parents taught her to be kind and gracious. It made it easier to look on the bright side.

Austvold credited her family for supporting her over the years. She has a strong passion for her family, calling them her heroes. She also wanted to acknowledge her hospital family who did great work at NUMC. 

Though Austvold has since retired from NUMC, she assured her former co-workers and friends that they remain in her thoughts and prayers.