Alumna Desiree’ Branson Recognized by Allergy Advocates New York

When Desiree’ M. Branson, DNP, RN, FNP-C, EBP-C, saw a presentation by Allergy Advocates New York for the first time, she felt moved to get involved. The organization was looking for individuals to join its speakers bureau, and Branson came on board to help facilitate its “Epi Near You” anaphylaxis emergency training program.

Nearly two decades later, the three-time School of Nursing alumna remains one of the organization’s most devoted volunteers and serves as a board member. In October, Branson was named the recipient of Allergy Advocates New York’s John J. Condemi Award in recognition of her longtime service.

The award is given to medical professionals who have improved life, health and hope for individuals and families with life-threatening allergies through clinical treatment and new research.

Branson is currently a nurse practitioner in perioperative medicine at University of Rochester Medical Center, and an assistant professor at St. John Fisher University Wegmans School of Nursing.

“The spirit of John Condemi is that he never said ‘no,’ and he understood the importance of moving healthcare forward,” Branson said. “I'm proud to be acknowledged for the work I've done over the years and inspired to continue serving this organization.”

Allergy Advocates praised Branson’s recent work as president of the Nurse Practitioner Association New York State (NPA) to enhance public health by expanding and promoting the nurse practitioners’ leadership capabilities.

“I feel that my life’s charge has been leadership, advocacy, and mentorship,” she said. “My work with the NPA has been parallel to what I do for Allergy Advocates. My goal is to help break down disparities and barriers for patients, ensure full access to research- and evidence-based care, and provide patients with the best knowledge.”

Branson earned her bachelor's in nursing in 2004, her master's in the Family Nurse Practitioner specialty in 2007, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2015. As a DNP student, she was awarded the annual George Spencer Terry, Jr. B’49 Endowed Fund in Nursing. The scholarship is named in honor of Allergy Advocates founder Jonathan Terry’s late father. The award furthered her determination to give back to Allergy Advocates.

She has been practicing as a family nurse practitioner for more than 16 years and currently practices in URMC’s Department of Anesthesia, at the Center for Perioperative Medicine. She also spent 14 years in Vascular Surgery at URMC and recently served on the COVID Task Force.

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