Celebrating Nurses During Nurses Week

*For all of the photos from 2025 Nurses Week at DCH, click here*

Daviess Community Hospital (DCH) celebrated the compassion, commitment, and clinical excellence of its nursing staff during the 2025 Nurse Reception, held May 9 at the hospital. The annual event recognized nurses and support staff across the health system who exemplify the hospital’s core values through exceptional care and servant leadership.

The heartfelt program opened with remarks from Nurse Services Week Co-Chair Shawna O’Kelley Brinson, BSN, RN, followed by a Nurses’ Prayer led by Lindsey Fuhs, RN, Director of Quality, Infection Prevention, and Risk Management. Chief Nursing Officer Jenna Bedwell, MSN, RN, delivered the welcome address, praising the nursing team for their resilience, teamwork, and compassion.

Melissa Potts, BSN, RN, recognized recent DCH nursing graduates and staff members who achieved certifications, applauding their ongoing commitment to professional development. Those recognized were:

• SANE certification: Wendee Francis, RN
• Associate degree in nursing: Keshawn Graber
• Master of Science in Nursing degree with a specialization in Family Nurse Practitioner: Jessica Devine, RN; Erin Newton, RN; and Chelsea Stoll, RN

Pillar Award: Kathy Graber

The Pillar Award, presented annually to an outstanding nursing support team member, was awarded to Kathy Graber, CNA. Known for her deep attentiveness to patients, Graber was praised for her “spidey senses” and her remarkable ability to anticipate patient needs before they arise. Her nominator wrote, “She takes what she does to heart. She is always wanting what’s best for her patients and coworkers.” Kathy is also recognized for stepping in to help on other units without hesitation, showing her unwavering support for the team. “Our patients are lucky to have her—and so are her coworkers,” the nomination concluded.

Others nominated for the Pillar Award were:

• Jenelle Collison, LPN OB Tech
• Jessica Madley, CNA
• Aubrey Wagler, PTA, CCMA, WCC
• Madison Schenk, Receptionist
• Taylor Bunner-Smith, CNA
• Estha Gervilus, CNA

DAISY Award Winners: Jordan Davis and Maci Briggeman

Two DCH nurses were honored with the prestigious DAISY Award, an international recognition that celebrates nurses for delivering skillful and compassionate care. DAISY Award nominees are evaluated using DCH’s PETALS criteria: Passion, Empathy, Trust & Teamwork, Admirable Attributes, Love for the Profession, and Selflessness.

Jordan Davis, RN, the Fourth Quarter 2024 DAISY Award Winner, received three separate nominations. One patient credited Jordan with preventing a potential emergency C-section, describing her as “calm, confident, and caring.” Others praised her for involving their children in the birth experience, creating a peaceful and supportive environment.

Maci Briggeman, RN, was named the First Quarter 2025 DAISY Award Winner for her swift, compassionate care during a complicated labor. When Maci suspected the baby was breech, she took immediate action, ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort throughout the process. “She showed so much compassion,” her nominator wrote. “Her care and commitment during my stay proves she deserves this award.”

Nominations for the DAISY Award also included:

• Ashley Abel, RN
• Angie Raber, RN
• Valerie Dyer, NP
• Melissa Potts, RN
• Christy Marlow, RN
• Angela George, RN

Inpatient Nurse of the Year: Brianna Helms

The 2025 Inpatient Nurse of the Year was awarded to Brianna Helms, RN, whose clinical leadership, mentorship, and dedication have made a lasting impact at DCH. Her nomination described her as a trusted role model who “approaches each shift with a positive attitude and a welcoming smile that uplifts both her co-workers and her patients.” Brianna frequently mentors new hires and nursing students, demonstrating clinical excellence and emotional support. “She is more than deserving of the title,” the nomination reads. “Her kindness, teamwork, and work ethic are inspiring.”

Nominees for Inpatient Nurse of the Year Award included:

• Jordan Davis, RN
• Jessica Devine, RN
• Lacey Himsel, RN
• Angie Raber, RN
• Jennifer Bledsoe, RN

Outpatient Nurse of the Year: Jacqueline Barber

Jacqueline Barber, RN was honored as the 2025 Outpatient Nurse of the Year. Her nomination described her as a role model, a mentor, and a deeply compassionate caregiver. “No matter the circumstances, she remains calm, focused, and patient-centered,” her nominator wrote. Jacqueline is known for picking up extra shifts without hesitation, floating to other clinics to maintain continuity of care, and supporting her coworkers both professionally and personally. “She exemplifies the values of Daviess Community Hospital through her unwavering commitment to patient care, her adaptability, and her dedication to the success of our organization,” the nomination stated.

Others nominated for Outpatient Nurse of the Year were:

• Makayla Ervin, RN
• Alayna Summers, RN

A Lasting Tribute

In her closing remarks, Chief Nursing Officer Jenna Bedwell emphasized that nurses are at the heart of DCH’s mission. “Today’s stories reflect the soul of this hospital,” she said. “Our nurses are more than caregivers—they are healers, mentors, and difference-makers. Their work is sacred, and we are incredibly proud of them.”

Following the ceremony, staff and guests gathered for refreshments and a reception in celebration of the award recipients and the entire nursing team.

About Daviess Community Hospital

Daviess Community Hospital (DCH) stands as a beacon of health and wellness in southwestern Indiana. Serving the region with one 48-bed hospital, seven specialty clinics, and eight outpatient clinics, DCH is dedicated to providing top-tier medical care. Nestled in Washington, Indiana, this not-for-profit health system is one of the area’s largest private employers, boasting a team of over 620 passionate professionals. DCH is unwavering in its mission to improving the health of the people of the communities it serves not only by delivering excellent medical care, but also ensuring accessibility, promoting healthy living, and collaborating with local agencies to address community health needs. As an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent, DCH is committed to being the healthcare provider of choice, continuously striving for excellence and innovation. Discover more about DCH’s services and commitment to health at dchosp.org.