Jennifer Jerger, RN, CLC, Named DAISY Award Winner for Q2 2025

Celebrating Extraordinary Nursing Care in Washington, Indiana

At Daviess Community Hospital in Washington, Indiana, compassionate care is more than a promise—it’s a standard. And Jennifer Jerger, RN, CLC, who has been named the hospital’s Q2 2025 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses recipient, represents that standard clearly. 

The DAISY Award honors nurses who go above and beyond in delivering skillful, heartfelt care to patients and families. Jennifer’s nomination, submitted by patient Rachel Raber, highlighted exactly why she’s so deserving of this prestigious recognition.

A Calm, Confident Nurse Who Made a Lasting Impact

Rachel Raber gave birth to her third child at DCH on April 25, 2025, after a difficult pregnancy filled with back pain and high blood pressure. Jennifer Jerger, a familiar face from church, happened to be her nurse that day—and Rachel said the experience was nothing short of transformative.

“There’s something calming and encouraging about her that is truly a gift,” Rachel shared in her nomination. “She was confident, wise, and kind, and worked tirelessly to make my experience top notch.”

Jennifer provided steady, reassuring support throughout Rachel’s labor—staying attentive to her comfort, clearly explaining each step of the process, and helping both Rachel and her husband, Nate, feel cared for and informed.

“My husband even said he’d be fine having three more kids if Jenn was our nurse every time!” Rachel joked.

Leadership Through Service: A Role Model for Nursing Excellence

What stood out most wasn’t just Jennifer’s care for her patient—but also her grace under pressure and how she uplifted her colleagues.

Rachel noted Jennifer’s ability to be a servant leader: someone who shares her expertise without judgment, supports her team with humility, and treats every interaction with dignity.

“Jenn truly cares about her patients, taking time to get to know them on a deeper level—even during busy shifts. She’s a servant leader. I believe she meets every PETALS quality the DAISY Award represents.”

What Is the DAISY Award?

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is a national recognition program founded in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died of complications from an autoimmune disease. The award honors nurses who demonstrate:

• Passion for the profession

• Empathy in every patient interaction

• Trust and teamwork

• Admirable attributes

• Love for nursing

• Selflessness in service

At DCH, DAISY Award winners are honored in a special public ceremony and receive a DAISY pin, a hand-carved “A Healer’s Touch” sculpture, and a celebration complete with cinnamon rolls—a tribute to Patrick’s favorite treat.

Honoring Jennifer Jerger, RN, CLC

Jennifer’s dedication as a nurse in DCH’s Obstetrics Department and as a Certified Lactation Counselor has touched the lives of many families across Daviess County and the surrounding communities. Her thoughtful, patient-first approach exemplifies what DCH strives to offer every person who walks through its doors.

“Jennifer is a strong and steady nurse who leads with grace and compassion,” said Shawna O’Kelley-Brinson, BSN, RN, Director of Obstetrics, Nursery and Childbirth Education. “She creates a peaceful and positive environment for her patients and teammates, and she represents the true spirit of OB nursing at DCH.”

Know a Nurse Who Deserves Recognition?

Have you or a loved one received extraordinary care from a nurse at Daviess Community Hospital?

Anyone—patients, family members, visitors, or fellow staff—can nominate a DCH nurse for the DAISY Award. It’s a simple but powerful way to say “thank you” to the nurses who make a lasting difference.

👉 Submit a nomination online today: www.dchosp.org/daisy