December Ambassador described by some as ‘mayor’ of Connersville

Dec. 4, 2023 -- One evening this past summer, Reid Health Assistant Police Chief Dennis Perkins was helping staff Reid's booth at the Fayette County Free Fair, and it was quickly obvious why some have described him as the "mayor" of Connersville.

"I saw him speak with people from all walks of life that night and his spirit, demeanor, and interactions were consistently wonderful," a co-worker said. "He engaged with every person with his wonderful smile, a handshake (or a hug), and a listening ear.

"It's clear Dennis -- throughout the years -- has earned the community's respect. He cares deeply about those he serves and represents Reid well in meeting our mission to lead our communities to well-being, one person at a time."

Reid's Ambassador for December served for 20 years with the Connersville Police Department before eventually finding his way to the Reid Health staff. His colleagues say he is "the epitome of Reid's values and principles."

"Dennis Perkins is why the Ambassador award was created," a co-worker said. "He not only brings a smile and positivity to everyone he works with but also everyone who walks into our building. He's here in our patients' most vulnerable time of need. He's often called to the Emergency Room to give comfort and pray with families, which goes above and beyond the role of any police officer I've ever known.

"There is only one Dennis Perkins, and we've got him. I feel very lucky and privileged to work with him every day."

"My purpose is to be here for everyone and not to put myself ahead of anyone. I do this not only because it's the right thing to do, but it's what I love to do! I've learned what I do isn't about me. I'm at the bottom of the list. It goes No. 1 the Lord, No. 2 my family, No. 3 all others, and No. 4 me." -- Reid Health Assistant Police Chief Dennis Perkins

A Connersville native, Perkins still lives in the city with his wife, Kristin. He has three children, Ashley Watkins, Randy Watkins, and Jayda Perkins. When he's not working, Perkins leads adult Sunday school classes and serves as the associate pastor at the Higher Praise Worship Center, coaches track and field, works with clay, and enjoys drawing.

He also serves on the boards of Striving for Change, a local organization focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion issues in Connersville, and The Pathway to Damascus, a men's recovery house opening in January to help those returning to society after time spent in rehab or incarceration.

"My purpose is to be here for everyone and not to put myself ahead of anyone," Perkins said. "I do this not only because it's the right thing to do, but it's what I love to do! I've learned what I do isn't about me. I'm at the bottom of the list. It goes No. 1 the Lord, No. 2 my family, No. 3 all others, and No. 4 me."

"Dennis is a comforting presence in the face of tragic circumstances," a co-worker said. "When an infant passed away at the Connersville facility, the parents requested he perform the services because he was so kind and supportive during that time for them.

"Whenever I encounter Dennis, his positive attitude is so refreshing. He goes out of his way to encourage others, share a kind word, and lead the way in how to be an overall good human being!"