NOTE: This message was emailed to all Ballad Health team members on Saturday, Dec. 21, from Alan Levine, Chairman and CEO of Ballad Health.
Dear colleague,
As we reflect on the joy and meaning of this Christmas season, it is impossible to do so without recognizing the acts of kindness and caring that each of you perform every day to help others. This was on full display over the past several months as we tried to help people who, in some cases, lost everything. The thankfulness and humility of the people we helped are testament to the good that God puts in our hearts – people who lost their material possessions, or even the lives of loved ones, and who were so moved by the caring and support – the stories are emotional and compelling.
Personally, I am proud to be a part of an organization that places so much value in people. Never forget that is who we are as an organization. And it is in our soul.
The holiday season means something to everyone, regardless of their faith. The most important thing is that we each believe in something bigger than ourselves, and that we have a genuine spirit of putting others before ourselves, and the ability to put ourselves in other people’s shoes – recognizing we all have challenges, fears, hopes and aspirations. What we do every day to serve others is, by itself, special.
But more importantly is how we TREAT others, particularly recognizing we are all human, and we all have our human limitations. This is the time to renew our desire to love others, whomever they are, and to spread the joy that comes with that.
Today, it’s my honor to recognize this year’s Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award winners — eight individuals who exemplify what it means to go above and beyond, offering compassion and kindness to everyone they meet. The Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award is Ballad Health’s most prestigious recognition created to honor team members, physicians and volunteers who model the philosophy of patient-centered care.
Recognizing the important part they play in our overall success, this award honors those who display the heart of a servant by going above and beyond the normal call of duty in helping others at work and in the community, as nominated by their peers.
The award was named in honor of Scott and Nikki Niswonger. Scott is a Greeneville businessman and philanthropist who is the chief benefactor of the Niswonger Children’s Hospital in Johnson City, and a member of the Ballad Health board of directors. The Niswongers have a long history of serving others throughout the region, with a strong focus on education highlighted by the creation of The Niswonger Foundation.
Please join me in celebrating these remarkable team members:
- Dr. Karen Elmore, Emory Internal Medicine, Abingdon Physician Partners, has dedicated her life to serving others through medicine, education, and community involvement. As a physician and healthcare educator in Southwest Virginia, she has cared for underserved populations, guided the next generation of medical professionals, and worked to address the opioid epidemic with compassion and innovation.
- Tina Gay, volunteer at Holston Valley Medical Center and Indian Path Community Hospital, is a devoted mother of nine and grandmother to 32. Known for her caring attitude and selflessness, she creates blessing kits and activity kits at her own expense, stocks hospital clothes closets, and eagerly steps in to help wherever needed, earning admiration and love from all who meet her.
- Jennifer Johnson, retail director, Ballad Health, exemplifies a servant’s heart through her countless acts of kindness at work, in her community, and at home. From caring for gift shop volunteers and team members to supporting her son’s school sports teams, feeding the homeless, and helping those in need with compassion and generosity, Jennifer consistently lives out Ballad Health’s values, letting her selfless actions speak louder than words.
- Kelsey McCoy, physician assistant, Rural Health Clinic Lebanon, exemplifies compassionate care by ensuring her patients “never leave empty-handed,” a philosophy inspired by her mentor, the late Dr. Norman Rexrode. With deep roots in Southwest Virginia, Kelsey’s dedication to her community is evident through her tireless efforts to overcome barriers to care, connect personally with patients, and provide exceptional service that improves lives, making her a true leader for Ballad Health.
- Rhonda Perkins, volunteer, Cancer Center, Johnston Memorial Hospital, has dedicated more than 2,000 hours to providing comfort and care to patients in the chemotherapy infusion unit. Known for her compassion and willingness to go above and beyond, Rhonda not only supports patients during treatment but also contributes to hospital fundraisers, community programs, and cancer outreach efforts, making her a true beacon of kindness and support.
- Annette Silvers, RN, Franklin Woods Community Hospital ICU/PCU, is known as a skilled, confident and caring nurse. She makes sure to share her knowledge and help develop her fellow team members, particularly the newest ones. Her ability to make people feel seen, heard and loved almost rivals her nursing knowledge and skill.
- Stacy Stacey, RN, Family Birth Center, Bristol Regional Medical Center, is known for her extraordinary ability to make every patient feel uniquely cared for, earning frequent requests from returning families. With over 16 years of experience, a Daisy Award, and countless heartfelt praises, Stacy’s compassion, expertise, and dedication to her patients and team make her a standout in labor and delivery care.
- Velvet Vanover, RN, system manager, Clinical Education, Ballad Health, has spent 40 years in nursing and education, making a lasting impact by training and mentoring numerous team members who continue to serve the community. Her commitment to excellence, creativity in teaching, and compassionate leadership have shaped the education of nurses while also extending to organizations influencing nursing students and child safety.
Videos for each winner are hyperlinked but you may also view them on the intranet, Ballad Health News or externally on the Ballad Health YouTube Channel.
These individuals have touched the lives of patients, families and colleagues in ways that inspire me. Whether it’s through small acts of kindness, steadfast dedication or their ability to make a difference in the face of challenges, they represent the very best of Ballad Health.
Looking ahead, I encourage you to think about who in your life embodies the values of Ballad Health – Creativity, Caring, Honesty, Respect, Faith and Quality. Nominations for the 2025 Servant’s Heart Awards are open and will remain so until Tuesday, Dec. 31. This is a wonderful opportunity to honor those who make a profound impact, and I hope you’ll take a few moments to submit your nominations. You can find the nomination form and additional details here.
On behalf of the Ballad Health Board of Directors and the Executive Leadership Team, I wish you and your loved ones a joyous Christmas and a happy New Year filled with peace, health and blessings.
Thank you and God bless,
Alan
