Happy multiracial male and female medical professionals in hospital

 

 

 

Champions of Care

2025 #MoHospitals Champions of Care

In celebration of National Nurses Week (May 6-12) and National Hospital Week (May 11-17), the Missouri Hospital Association is honoring Champions of Care in the categories of nursing, nursing teams, health care workers and health care teams.

More than 65 individuals and teams were nominated by their peers for going above and beyond to care for the communities they serve.

“The dedication shown by these individuals and care teams reflects the heart of Missouri’s hospitals – putting patients first and strengthening our communities,” said Jon D. Doolittle, MHA president and CEO. “MHA is privileged to support and recognize all Champions of Care, and we hope that telling these stories will inspire others and remind our communities of the incredible service our state’s caregivers provide. Congratulations to the winners and nominees, and thank you for the differences you make 24/7, 365 days a year.”

Champions of Care winners were selected by an MHA staff vote, with names and hospital affiliations removed from nominations to ensure fairness.

Winner: Nurse Champion

Danielle Lind, R.N., Ozarks Healthcare

In life’s most fragile moments, small gestures leave the deepest impact. Danielle Lind, R.N., embodies compassionate care, always honoring the humanity of her patients. Recently, she cared for an ICU patient nearing the end of her life. The patient’s granddaughter, unable to be there in time, shared that her grandmother always kept her toenails painted — just in case. She asked Danielle if she could ensure they were painted one last time.

Danielle sprang into action, rallying nurses to find polish. When none was available, a co-worker’s significant other delivered some from home — at 4 a.m. Thanks to Danielle’s determination, this patient’s final wish was honored. Her nails were painted. Her dignity was preserved. Her family found peace. Danielle didn’t just do her job — she reminded us all what it truly means to be a nurse.

25 CoC winners social WEB Nurse FINAL

Winner: Nursing Team Champions

SANE Team, Forensic Nursing, Ozarks Healthcare

In the most vulnerable moments of a person’s life, the Ozarks Healthcare Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) team stands as a beacon of hope, healing and justice. These specialized nurses are more than medical professionals — they are fierce advocates, compassionate listeners and unwavering protectors of dignity. Before this team was formed, survivors of sexual violence in our region were forced to travel nearly 100 miles to receive the care and forensic exams they desperately needed — an added burden in an already traumatic time.

Today, thanks to the dedication of our SANE team, expert care is available locally, around the clock, ensuring survivors are never alone in their time of need. These nurses do far more than collect evidence. They offer a safe space, compassionate presence and critical resources — providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and emotional trauma of assault. In every encounter, they prioritize the survivor’s voice, choices and healing journey.

Their work doesn’t stop at the bedside. By collaborating closely with law enforcement, child and family services, and advocacy organizations across eight counties, the SANE team is transforming how communities respond to sexual violence — breaking barriers, building trust and delivering justice. Through their courage, empathy and relentless commitment to those they serve, Ozarks Healthcare’s SANE team exemplifies what it means to be Champions of Care. They don’t just serve — they empower, protect and change lives.

25 CoC winners social WEB NursingTeam FINAL

SANE Team Members

Karlee Marvin, R.N., Elizabeth Bowen, R.N., Dr. Korby Pogue, Tonya Aaron, R.N., Christen Weaver, R.N., and Kate Wrenfrow, R.N.; not pictured, Michaela Lawing, R.N. and Emily Griffin R.N.

Winner: Health Care Worker Champion

Eric Rader, Facilities Management, Bothwell Regional Health Center

Hospitals don’t stop when the weather turns dangerous, and neither does Eric Rader. When freezing rain threatened to make roads impassable, Eric called ahead, came to the hospital overnight and worked through the early morning to ensure the hospital was safe and operational. In Champions of Care, people often think of those at the bedside. Eric sees himself as a care provider, too. By clearing parking lots, salting walkways and responding immediately to weather-related concerns, he ensured that staff could get inside, patients could access care and visitors could arrive without fear of injury.

His actions weren’t just about logistics; they were about making sure Bothwell Regional Health Center could continue serving the community, no matter the conditions. Eric’s dedication proves that health care is a team effort, from those at the bedside to those working behind the scenes. His commitment to keeping the hospital running, even in the worst weather, ensures that care is not interrupted.

25 CoC winners social WEB HealthCare Worker FINAL

Winner: Health Care Team Champions

Population Health Team, Bothwell Regional Health Center

Health care isn’t just about treating illness; it’s about preventing illness and suffering before it begins. Led by Leslie Harris, Bothwell Regional Health Center’s Population Health team ensures vulnerable patients don’t slip through the cracks and that they receive care before a crisis strikes. As one of Missouri’s six ToRCH (Transformation of Rural Community Health) pilot sites, this team is a lifeline for Medicaid patients struggling to access care.

They step in where the system falls short: helping patients find doctors before the emergency department is their only option, securing transportation and connecting people with a wide range of resources they may not realize are available. Their work changes lives. By focusing on prevention and breaking down barriers, this team creates a healthier community and a stronger Bothwell. Their impact reaches beyond hospital walls, ensuring people get the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

25 CoC winners social WEB HealthCareTeam FINAL

Population Health Team Members

Jennifer Walker, Elizabeth Green, Leslie Stevenson, Teresa Mitchell, Courtney Staus, Debbie Bredehoef, Joy Knox, Leslie Harris, Rebecca Embry, Kendra Bloess and Ray Ross; not pictured, M’Lissa Reimer and Kiersten Labus

2025 Champions of Care Nominations
Back to Top