A dedicated nurse with a lifelong commitment to improving the mental health of older adults, she has spent her career combining direct care, advocacy, and operational excellence. Darlene Dilangalen Borromeo, BSN, RN, PMH-BC, Past President of the Philippine Nurses Association of New Jersey (PNANJ), has been named the 2025 Peterkin Foundation and Growing in Grace Counseling Group’s Compassionate Caregiver Awardee.
Reflecting on this honor, Darlene says, “I feel a sense of pride and honor for being recognized by colleagues for my passion to serve the most vulnerable population of the mentally ill and elderly.” She underscores how meaningful the award is on both personal and professional levels: “The award means so much to me, because it defines me as a Nurse. I am a daughter, a wife, mother, friend and colleague but most of all I am a Nurse.”
Born in the Southern Philippines to a family bearing the title “Bai,” Darlene technically descends from Muslim nobility. Yet, she insists it was never the title that mattered to her, but rather the drive to care for others. In 1980, she brought that passion to New York, armed with a Nursing degree from Marian College (now General Emilio Aguinaldo College). There, she built a robust career, becoming certified in Gerontological, Psychiatric, and Mental Health nursing, and eventually taking on leadership roles in the U.S. healthcare system.
For over two decades, Darlene worked in the Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit at St. Clare’s Health System in Denville, New Jersey. She retired as Operations Manager of the facility but still dedicates her time part-time in the Psychiatric Emergency Services unit, where she evaluates mental health patients in crisis. This hands-on approach exemplifies her belief in unwavering advocacy: “I always believe that if we don’t advocate for our patients…who will?”
Throughout her career, Darlene has effortlessly balanced advocacy, caregiving, and managerial responsibilities. She describes the greatest reward as seeing tangible improvements in her patients’ lives: “The most satisfying and fulfilling accomplishment is to see a positive change in a patient. Big or small, you know in your heart and soul you have made a difference.” Such an impact is exactly what her colleagues recognized in her when they nominated her for this Compassionate Caregiver Award.
Darlene’s longevity in nursing is strongly tied to the principles of kindness, faith, and a relentless pursuit of growth. She notes, “If you’re passionate about what you do…then the Almighty will guide you… Kindness begets kindness.” This ethos has fueled her decades-long work with seniors, ensuring that each patient receives the care and dignity they deserve.
Married for 42 years to Jesus Borromeo, with three children thriving in various fields, Darlene credits her family for their unwavering support. She also remains active with professional organizations, including the New Jersey State Nurses Association and PNANJ, where her leadership continues to guide and inspire others.
Darlene’s journey stands as a powerful testament to the importance of empathy, advocacy, and compassion in geriatric mental health—a reminder that one dedicated nurse truly can make a lasting difference.
