Reid’s 2026 Nursing Excellence Award, Character in Nursing winners recognized for high level of care

Reid Health is honoring 10 team members with 2026 Nursing Excellence Awards and one with the Lance Pence Character in Nursing Award in recognition of National Nurses Week, which runs May 6-12.

The group has nearly 150 years of nursing experience total and represents a variety of departments across the health system, with each person chosen for the high level of care they provide to our communities, patients, and their families.

“Each of these nurses has made an impact on patients, families, and their team members,” said Misti Foust-Cofield, Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer.

“Their compassion and dedication are reflected in their daily interactions and elevates the practice of nursing across our organization as we serve our communities. We’re proud to recognize the difference they make every day.”

Danika Allen, RN, Reid Health Connersville Emergency Services, Lance Pence Character in Nursing Award

Danika Allen has built her 16-year career on faith, compassion, leadership, and a commitment to community, qualities that earned her the Lance Pence Character in Nursing Award.

The distinction posthumously recognizes the legacy of Reid RN Lance Pence in honor and memory of his profound impact on character-driven leadership in healthcare. His exemplary actions and unwavering commitment to compassionate care continue to inspire others to uphold the highest standards of nursing excellence, leaving a legacy of kindness, integrity, and humanity.

Allen worked with Pence in the Critical Care Unit (CCU) and as a House Supervisor in Richmond and Connersville.

“I have great respect for his nursing legacy,” Allen said. “There are so many remarkable nurses at Reid, so being selected for this honor is incredibly meaningful to me.”

Allen earned her nursing degree from Indiana University East and joined Reid as a graduate nurse in August 2009. It was during her clinicals and capstone placement at Reid that she confirmed a future in critical care after developing an interest in nursing in childhood.

“I learned from the best ‘old-school, weekend-option’ nurses in the CCU, and I’m incredibly grateful for the strong nursing foundation I developed during those years,” Allen said.

Her path to nursing began as a fourth-grader when her grandfather required emergency treatment for a severe heart attack.

“I remember visiting him afterward, hearing about his near-death experience, and being fascinated by the efforts of the Emergency Department team to save his life,” Allen said.

“During later visits, I was especially intrigued by all the equipment and by observing the nurses, their interactions with my family, and the care they provided.”

Previously, Allen worked in intensive care at Fayette Regional Health System and as a PRN nurse for Fayette County schools. She later earned board certification as an Emergency Department (ED) nurse and became a Certified Emergency Nurse through the Emergency Nurses Association.

Allen carries a strong sense of purpose through her faith, which she believes goes hand-in-hand with nursing. She finds fulfillment in the simplest moments.

“A simple ‘thank you’ from patients or their families, no formal recognition needed, just a heartfelt thank you means so much,” Allen said.

She also values the ED’s teamwork to assist high-acuity patients to stabilize them to transition to a higher level of care.

“That moment afterward — the deep breath, reflection, and pride in knowing my team made a difference — is incredibly rewarding,” she said. “Knowing others depend on me keeps me motivated every day to continue doing what I do.”

Allen is a lifelong resident of Fayette County. She currently resides in Everton, Indiana, with her husband of nearly 25 years Stacey, and their two sons, Jude (his fiancée, Shelby) and Ty.

Jennifer Conover, RN, Reid Health Connersville Cardiac Rehab

A bit of irony shaped a lifelong calling for Jennifer Conover.

Growing up, she watched her mother work as a nurse’s aide and often heard, “Whatever you do, don’t be a nurse.”

“Naturally, that is exactly what I did,” Conover said.

“I’ve always had a natural desire to care for others, and becoming a nurse gave me a way to turn that into something meaningful and lasting.”

Conover’s decision to ignore her mother’s advice led to her associate’s degree in nursing in 2006. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from IU East in 2016 and recently completed her master’s in nursing education from Western Governors University; an achievement she considers her proudest professional milestone.

“I began the master’s program in 2018, paused near completion in 2020, and returned to finish it in 2025,” Conover said. “To me, it represents a strong commitment to continued growth, lifelong learning, and nursing education.”

Conover began her nursing career at Hancock Regional in medical-surgical care before gaining experience in total joint and spine, acute inpatient rehabilitation, intensive care, and hospice. To be closer to home, she transitioned to Fayette Regional Health System, where she worked in the ICU and later served as a clinical nurse educator.

When Reid acquired Fayette Regional, she joined Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation in Connersville in August 2020.

“When a position opened in Connersville Cardiopulmonary Rehab, it was an obvious choice for me to join the Reid Health team and return to serving the community where I live and have come to call home,” Conover said.

Nearly six years later as a Charge Nurse, Conover said her purpose continues to come from caring for patients and families and supporting them through some of their most vulnerable moments.

“Each position I’ve held has helped shape that purpose and led me to where I am today in Cardiopulmonary Rehab,” Conover said.

“Watching my patients’ progress and seeing them reach their goals, both big and small. I value the opportunity to get to know my patients and their families over the course of their rehab program and to share in their successes along the way.”

That connection inspires Conover to continue to develop as a nurse and to give each patient her very best.

Receiving a Nursing Excellence Award (NEA) confirms her dedication to nursing, Conover said.

“It reflects my commitment to excellence in nursing as well as the lasting impact of the many wonderful nurses and team members I have been fortunate to learn from and work alongside,” she said.

Conover was born and raised in Rushville, Indiana, and now lives in Fayette County. She’s supported in nursing by her husband, Corbin, sons Clayton and Bradley, daughter-in-law Hannah, and her parents, along with the lasting influence of her late father-in-law.

Leneah Holland, LPN-RHPA, Reid Medical Associates

Lenah Holland questioned whether she belonged in healthcare early in her nursing career. It was when she joined Reid Medical Associates into her second year as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) that she felt valued, supported, and certain she’s making a difference.

“I wanted to become a nurse because I’m passionate about making a difference in other people's lives, no matter how big or how small,” Holland said.

“I absolutely love caring for people.”

Holland began her career in healthcare in 2014 as a Medical Assistant (MA), a role she quickly grew to love. Her passion for caring for others led her to pursue a Practical Nursing Technical Certificate from Miami Valley Career Technology Center in Englewood, Ohio.

After becoming an LPN, Holland spent her first two years working in nursing homes, an experience that would challenge her vision of what it would be like to work in healthcare. She gave her all by taking extra shifts, going the extra mile, and caring for her patients, but she often felt unseen in return.

“As a new nurse, I felt completely burnt out,” Holland said.

“No matter how much extra I did, it never seemed to matter to anyone except the families. They were always so kind to me.”

The experience left her discouraged and uncertain about her future in nursing.

It was then Holland joined Reid for the second time as a nurse in April 2025. Previously, she had worked as an MA in Cardiology.

The difference was immediate, she said.

“What keeps me at Reid is the exceptional providers I work with and the office I’m currently in,” Holland said.

“I have such a great relationship with them all, and I love that the providers are always eager to teach, which keeps me on my toes and learning new things daily. They really make me feel as if I'm a valuable team player.”

That sense of belonging helped Holland rediscover confidence in her work and her purpose.

Receiving the NEA award is a recognition that carries meaning beyond the honor itself for Holland.

“To me, this award means no matter where you are in your career you matter and you make a difference,” Holland said.

“Even when you think no one else is watching — or maybe what you're doing doesn't seem like enough — be patient, remain humble, and never give up because you never know or realize the lives you’re affecting. The NEA now just pushes me to strive even higher and continue doing exactly what I'm doing now. Showing up and making a difference daily.”

For new nurses, Holland shares a message about being in the profession for the right reasons.

“Have an open mind, an open heart, compassion, and strength,” Holland said.

“Never be afraid to ask questions or lean on others. Remember, you’re only one person and can’t save the world alone. And always remember you matter too.”

Holland is a Richmond native. Supporting her in nursing are her children, Kamyah and Kyrae, and her mother, Donna.

Kady Hughes, RN, Oncology Services

Kady Hughes has always known she wanted to be a nurse. As Oncology Lead for Infusion Therapy, she’s exactly where she wanted to be when she first found her passion for the specialty as an Ivy Tech Community College student.

“I’ve always enjoyed helping and taking care of others and trying to ease someone else’s struggles,” Hughes said.

“It gives me purpose to know I can help someone during a difficult time or be a positive influence for them.”

Her dream of becoming a nurse was reinforced early by her mother, Ieshsa, whose love for nursing helped guide her there.

Her direction toward oncology became clear during her nursing clinical rotations.

“I enjoyed every department and unit during school, but the oncology department really sparked my interest,” Hughes said.

As she worked alongside RN Erinn Frech, a 2011 NEA recipient, and the care team at Reid, it left a lasting impression.

“She was great. All the staff at that time really wanted to educate and include me as a student as much as they could.”

When an oncology position opened after graduation, Hughes didn’t hesitate, and she joined Reid in summer 2018.

After eight years, Hughes said it’s the patients and her team that continue to drive her each day.

“This area of nursing holds a really special place for me,” she said.

“Making a positive impact, aligning my personal values with my work, and being part of a team working toward a shared goal all help fulfill my purpose.”

Hughes began her career as a nurse’s aide before advancing to an LPN then an RN.

“I’m proud of my growth that continues every year,” she said.

“I’m also proud to mentor and teach students during clinicals and make a small difference.”

A recipient of GEM awards and DAISY Award nominations, she’s thankful to be unexpectedly nominated for the NEA, she said.

“Receiving the award validates that someone has noticed my dedication and passion for patient care, mentoring students, and stepping into leadership when needed,” she said.

Hughes is a native of Kettering, Ohio, and raised in Lewisburg, Ohio, where she continues to live with her significant other, Joshua, and their five children: Anna, Harper, Keith, Kameron, and Dillan. She is also supported in nursing by her parents, Iesha and Randy, and her sister, Kourtney.

Jessica Gibbel, RN, Orthopedics and Urology

Nursing might run in the family, but Jessica Gibbel has built her own path, growing into a leadership role on the Orthopedics and Urology Unit while helping others find their own way.

“I really enjoy being a Charge Nurse where I am because I have a strong foundational base of knowledge and experience with our patient population, and I’m able to not only let myself continue to grow and learn, but I get to help other nurses and students as well,” Gibbel said.

“I love getting to see our patients get better and most of the time feel like a new person after surgery.”

Gibbel’s mother, Deb Crane, has been a nurse for as long as Gibbel can remember, and her example helped Gibbel decide on nursing as a career.

“I saw her and my older sister have a bond, and I could never decide what I wanted to do, so I landed on nursing because of all the amazing different things you can do as a nurse while also helping people.”

The family has a strong connection at home and at work. Gibbel lives in Richmond with her husband, Justin, and their two cats, Opal and Nova.

Her mother, Deb Crane, works on the Progressive Care Unit at Reid; her younger sister, Ashley Crane, is a Nursing Care Assistant (NCA) for the Medical-Surgical and Pediatrics Unit; and her older sister, Amanda Orbik, works in Internal Medicine just down the street.

Gibbel began her nursing career during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic as a student at Indiana University Indianapolis (formerly IUPUI). She returned home in 2020 to work as an NCA, gaining experience across hospice, oncology, and medical-surgical units before becoming a Student Nurse Technician (SNT).

In June 2021, she joined the Orthopedics and Urology Unit, where she completed her capstone and started as a new graduate nurse. She’s since grown into her current role as Charge Nurse.

“I knew from early on in my undergraduate studies that I would likely go back for a higher degree, and I love learning and helping others learn so nursing education was the perfect choice for me,” she said.

Gibbel is pursuing her master’s degree in nursing education and plans to finish this December.

Balancing full-time work with graduate school has been challenging but rewarding.

“Working on my degree while working full-time has been one of the hardest things I’ve done, but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she said.

She continues to challenge herself while developing both her own skills and those of the nurses on her care team, all with the goal of enhancing the quality of care for patients in her community. For Gibbel, caring for patients in her hometown means doing more than simply treating a diagnosis on a screen.

“It’s taking care of the people who support our community and people I might know or run into outside of work,” Gibbel said.

“It makes everything feel more personal. I usually am thinking beyond their hospital stay, about how they’re going to do when they get home and the barriers they might face.”

Amanda Grassmann, RN, Emergency Services

Amanda Grassmann didn’t set out to become a nurse right away. For more than a decade, she worked in a routine job, with little opportunity to grow or make a lasting impact.

“I decided I wanted a true career where I felt like I could make a difference,” Grassmann said.

“Nursing felt like a position I could do just that.”

To make the career change to nursing, she earned her LPN from Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua, Ohio, before continuing at Ivy Tech Community College in Richmond to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

“The environment, my awesome team of co-workers, and the reward of helping our community is what keeps me here,” she said.

Grassmann started on the Psychiatric Unit at Reid in 2018 where she worked for about three years as an LPN before transitioning to Emergency Services, where she has spent the past six years.

“I find it meaningful to work in the role of Charge Nurse, supporting and strengthening our team in the ED,” Grassmann said.

“I’m proud to contribute to such an excellent, strong, and effective team.”

Grassmann’s approach to patient care is the simple belief every patient is someone’s loved one.

“I find it important to remember we’re not only caring for people we might have never met, but for someone who is deeply loved,” she said.

“We’re helping our neighbors, families, and individuals who trust our hospital. That shapes the mark I hope to leave as a nurse by considering how I would want my loved one to be cared for.”

Grassmann approaches each shift in the ED — where patients are often facing some of their most difficult moments — to provide the type of care she’d want for her loved ones.

“Being able to provide not only clinical care but also comfort and calm reassurance to people on their worst days is what continues to drive my purpose,” she said.

Grassmann is honored to be an NEA recipient.

“Receiving this award is quite the honor considering the elite nurses who’ve been awarded in the past,” she said.

“I hope to make a positive impact in patient experiences, strong teamwork, and continuous improvement.”

Grassmann is an Indianapolis native and now resides in New Paris, Ohio. She is supported in nursing by her husband, Clay; stepdaughter, Brenna; her parents; and countless friends.

Seth Gray, RN, ACES East Float Pool

Seth Gray left his Richmond hometown during the COVID-19 pandemic as a travel nurse. When he returned to Reid Health five years later, he found a supportive team and a shared purpose of caring for others in the place he’s always called home.

“I enjoy working with people from my community, all while healing people from our community,” Gray said.

“Reid is my home. There’s always something new to learn, and I work with amazing people. There are always people in your corner helping and supporting you.”

Gray first joined Reid in 2017 as an SNT on the Medical-Surgical and Pediatrics Unit while earning his nursing degree from IU East.

Then during the pandemic, he went across the country to expand his clinical knowledge as a travel nurse before returning to Reid in April 2025.

Gray gained experience working on units in emergency care, cardiovascular intensive care, cardiac specialty, burn, pediatrics, progressive care, medical-surgical, orthopedics, urology, bariatric, gastrointestinal surgical, and neurology.

Currently, he’s training to be a house supervisor at Reid.

“I find my sense of purpose in the healing aspect of my career,” Gray said.

“I come onto my shift knowing my purpose is to help people and do my best in the process.”

Nursing is more than a profession for Gray.

“Being a nurse isn't only a career, it's who you are at heart,” he said.

“We’re helping one another when we’re at our worst. It’s an incredible feeling to forever be a part of an individual's healing journey.”

His commitment has led to moments he considers the most meaningful of his career and times when his quick thinking and skill made a life-saving difference.

“I can say I've honestly saved many lives with my actions,” Gray said.

“I don't think there's anything else out there that compares to saving a life.”

As a nurse recognition isn’t his motivation. Receiving an NEA is meaningful not for the recognition but for what it represents.

“I’m not in this career for gratitude and acknowledgement, but receiving this award shows me others see me,” Gray said.

“People can see I’m trying my best, that I care, and that I’ll go above and beyond for my patients. It’s a great feeling to be noticed for my work, and I’ll continue to strive to be better.”

Gray was born and raised in Richmond, and he continues to live in the community. He said his local connection helps patients feel comfortable and confident in his care.

Gray is supported in nursing by his grandmother, siblings, niece, nephew, and most importantly, his son, River.

Melinda Matthews, RN, Adult Psychiatric Services

Melinda Matthews believes the most important part of nursing happens in life’s hardest moments.

As a Charge Nurse with Adult Psychiatric Services, those moments are where compassion matters most for Matthews. When patients feel alone, overwhelmed, and unsure if things will get better, she’s there to provide reassurance and begin to help them to see a path forward.

“The best part of my job is helping patients in their darkest moments, giving them hope and support, and witnessing their transformation,” Matthews said.

“I love being able to make an impact in people’s lives and helping them see their worth. I want them to know there are people who truly care and they’re never alone.”

Matthews’ sense of purpose has shaped her nearly 15-year career at Reid, including the past four years as a Charge Nurse on the Behavioral Health Unit.

“God has blessed me with the gift of empathy, and it’s up to me to make sure I use this gift to its fullest,” she said.

“I love helping people.”

She earned her degree from Ivy Tech Community College and was drawn to Reid during her clinical experience.

“I was very impressed with Reid while I was doing my clinicals for Ivy Tech and wanted to be part of. Reid's purpose and mission, career growth and development, and amazing coworkers!” Matthews said.

In June 2009, she joined the Behavioral Health Unit where she served as a Charge Nurse for six years before transitioning to Oncology for just more than a year. She later returned to Behavioral Health, first as a backup Charge Nurse and eventually back into her current role.

Receiving the NEA is among Matthews’ proudest professional accomplishments.

“It’s such an amazing honor to be chosen because Reid is filled with amazing nurses who go above and beyond for their patients every day,” she said. “There are so many who I look up to and have aspired to be half the nurse they are. I feel very blessed.” 

The recognition also reflects Matthews’ commitment to excellence and the impact she hopes to make.

“Winning this award strengthens my commitment to excellence and patient care, but I also love the recognition it brings to Psychiatric Services,” she said.

“We have an amazing group of people who work on our unit, and they consistently go above and beyond for patients on a daily basis.”

Matthews is a native of Connersville, Indiana, where she continues to live with her husband, Michael. They have a daughter, Amber Baker (a nurse on the Hospice, Oncology, Medical-Surgical Unit); son, Michael Matthews Jr.; and grandchildren, Maddie, Kylie, Olivia, and Ben. Matthews also credits her parents, Verdis and Linda Hobbs, for their support throughout her nursing journey.

Demie Narag, RN, Medical-Surgical and Pediatrics Unit

Demie Narag brings a quiet steadiness to nursing, where patients and families rely on her during uncertain times.

“I’ve always wanted a career where I could help people during their most vulnerable moments,” Narag said.

“To me, there’s no higher calling than providing comfort and healing to someone in need.”

Narag has become a trusted and familiar presence over the past eight years at Reid. In her current role, she’s known for her willingness to support additional units whenever necessary.

“I enjoy stepping in where I’m needed most,” she said.

Narag’s connection to Reid began as a contract nurse through the PassportUSA Program (PPUSA), where she worked for three years before transitioning into a permanent role. What began as an assignment quickly became a lasting commitment.

“I enjoyed the environment and the community here so much I decided to stay on permanently,” she said.

“It’s the incredible team I work with that keeps me here. We lean on and support each other to provide the best care possible.”

Originally from Pagadian City, Philippines, Narag earned her nursing degree from Medina College.

“It’s where I first learned nursing is as much about the heart as it is about the science,” she said.

While clinical expertise is essential, Narag finds the most meaning in simple, human moments helping ease fear, offering comfort, and being fully present for patients and families.

“My purpose comes from the small, quiet moments, like seeing a patient smile or helping a family feel at ease,” she said. “My why is simply the belief that every person deserves to be treated with dignity and kindness.”

Narag now calls Richmond home. Her connection to the community is felt in her work, where caring for neighbors makes each patient interaction more meaningful.

“Being part of this community is something I value deeply,” she said.

Recognition, including the NEA, is something she accepts with humility.

“To me, the award isn’t just a personal win, it’s a reflection of the high standards we all strive for at Reid. It motivates me to keep learning and showing up for my patients every single day,” Narag said.

For Narag, the most meaningful rewards are not titles or awards, but outcomes and connections that stay with her long after care ends.

“While awards are an honor, my proudest moments are when a patient goes home feeling stronger or when a family thanks me for just being there, trusting the care I provided,” she said.

“Those personal connections mean the world to me and truly warm my heart.”

As part of the Richmond community, Narag’s nursing is focused on her neighbors and compassion.

“Caring for my neighbors is a true honor and makes my work feel like a calling,” she said.

“This connection shapes the mark I leave by ensuring every patient feels seen and valued. I want my legacy to be one of kindness and genuine presence, so our community knows they’re in safe, caring hands.”

Outside of work, Narag has a strong support system that helps her stay grounded.

“My strength comes from my wonderful family and friends,” she said.

“They’re my biggest cheerleaders and provide the balance I need to stay focused and compassionate in my work.”

Crystal Reynolds, RN, ACES East Float Pool

Crystal Reynolds is just as fascinated by what the human body can do as she is committed to helping people understand it.

“I love people, and the human body fascinates me,” Reynolds said.

“I’ve always loved helping people but also have loved the science behind how our bodies work.”

Reynolds strives to help patients and their families understand their medical conditions through recovery.

“Our health can become very complicated, and I thoroughly enjoy teaching people about their health in a way they can understand,” she said.

“My favorite is also seeing the recovery process for patients who are at their worst, and we as caregivers get them through some of the toughest times of their life.”

Reynolds earned her nursing degree from Sinclair Community College.

She joined Reid in August 2024 after hearing about the health system from her sister, who previously worked there. Now part of the float pool, the former travel nurse values the proximity to her home in Brookville, Ohio, and the flexibility it provides for her background in cardiac ICU care and work-life balance.

Reynold is intentional about bringing patience, kindness, and attentiveness to every shift, especially on difficult days, reminding herself patients are often experiencing some of the hardest moments of their lives.

An experience during the COVID-19 pandemic when she cared for critically ill patients brought her perspective on patient care into focus. One case remains especially meaningful.

The patient had been in the ICU for 30 days on a ventilator and wasn’t expected to survive.

“Three months after they left (the hospital), the patient walked in with his wife and it was so profound to see the difference we all had made to get him to that point,” Reynolds said.

It’s moments like that where Reynolds finds her perspective in providing care within the community.

“It means showing up for people as more than a diagnosis. It’s the blend of clinical skill and human presence and treating people like a neighbor or friend versus a total stranger.”

Outside of work, Reynolds’ life is centered on family. She’s married with two young children, including a 4-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter, and credits her mother and three younger sisters as her closest support system.

Amanda “Mandy” Suggs, RN, Reid Outpatient Surgery & Endoscopy (ROSE)

Amanda “Mandy” Suggs knew she wanted to become a nurse after a life-changing family emergency.

Her dad had a pulmonary embolism the day after her junior year prom.

“Thanks to the quick response and quality of care, he’s alive and doing well,” Suggs said.

“From watching the 911 responders, the Emergency Services team, and the care team on the unit, I knew I wanted to work in healthcare so I could also make a difference in the lives of others.”

With her plans clear, Suggs attended IU East and earned her nursing degree in 1998.

She joined Reid Outpatient Surgery & Endoscopy (ROSE) in 2009, influenced in part by Magdy Rofail, MD, and the supportive culture she found within the team.

“I care about the work, the boss and management cares about me, and my co-workers are amazing,” Suggs said.

She has served in her current role with the Surgery Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) team for 17 years. At ROSE, she began in PACU and Gastrointestinal Sedation/Recovery. Additionally, she worked across several areas, including medical-surgical, pediatrics, oncology, orthopedics, and internal medicine.

“I find my purpose in nursing by continuing to connect with patients and their families,” Suggs said.

“My dedication to patient care is what continues to drive me.”

Recognition such as GEM awards and a DAISY Award nomination have been meaningful, but receiving the Nursing Excellence Award is one of the proudest achievements of her career, Suggs said.

Receiving the NEA is a tremendous honor that validates her calling to the nursing profession.

“I hope I’m a role model to my peers and inspire them to go above and beyond when caring for patients and their families,” she said.

Suggs often cares for patients she knows outside the hospital, building a connection beyond the clinical setting.

“I often know patients and their families on a personal level, which helps to build trust,” she said. “Knowing I might see my patients at the store, community events, or church leads to an increased sense of responsibility and desire to provide comprehensive care.”

Suggs was born in Akron, Ohio, and currently lives in Eaton, Ohio. She’s supported in nursing by her husband, Scott; their children, Wilson and Daisy; and her parents, Sarah and Delmer Ile.