Harrison Memorial Hospital Launches DAISY Award Program for Extraordinary Nurses

Harrison Memorial Hospital (HMH) is proud to announce the launch of its DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses program and is now accepting nominations.

The DAISY Award is a national recognition program that honors the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. It celebrates those who go above and beyond in their service to patients and families.

“Our nurses are the heart of our hospital,” said Shannan Allison, HMH Executive Director of Nursing. “We see examples of their extraordinary care every single day, and this program provides a meaningful way for patients, families, and coworkers to express gratitude for the difference they make.”

Dr. Kathy Tussey, Chief Executive Officer at Harrison Memorial Hospital, said the program reflects the hospital’s commitment to honoring those who serve with excellence and compassion. “The DAISY Award is a beautiful reminder of the impact nurses have on every life they touch,” Dr. Tussey said. “At HMH, we are proud of the dedication, professionalism, and empathy our nurses demonstrate daily. This recognition allows us to publicly celebrate the heart of our mission—caring for others with compassion and skill.”

The DAISY Award was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who passed away at age 33 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). His family created the DAISY Foundation to express gratitude for the compassionate nursing care Patrick received and to honor nurses everywhere for their dedication and kindness. Since its founding, the program has grown to include more than 5,000 healthcare facilities and nursing schools across the United States and in more than 30 other countries.

The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who demonstrate clinical excellence and extraordinary compassion. Anyone—patients, families, visitors, or hospital staff—may nominate a nurse who has made a lasting impact through their care. Nominations are reviewed by an internal selection committee, and honorees are chosen for their commitment to the core values of the nursing profession. Each honoree receives a certificate, a DAISY Award pin, a hand-carved “Healer’s Touch” sculpture, and a copy of their nomination during a special presentation. Even those not selected for the award receive their nomination and a “DAISY Nominee” pin to acknowledge the impact they have made.

The DAISY Foundation reports that hospitals implementing the award experience improved nurse engagement, higher retention, and greater team morale. The program also enhances the patient and family experience by encouraging gratitude and recognizing compassionate care.

Nomination forms for the DAISY Award are available throughout the hospital and online at https://www.daisyfoundation.org/about-daisy-award. For more information or to submit a nomination, contact a member of the HMH Nursing Excellence Council.