ECU Health recently hosted the Provider Patient Choice Awards at a luncheon honoring more than 200 ECU Health providers.
The Provider Patient Choice Awards recognize ECU Health providers who rank in the top 10% in the nation in the Watson Human Caring[1] question for “Creating a caring environment that helped me heal.”
Attendees, both in-person and virtual, heard from ECU Health leadership as they thanked the winners for their work and discussed how compassionate care impacts patients, families and the health system. ECU Health CEO and Dean of the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University Dr. Michael Waldrum said there is no greater honor than being recognized by the patients and community members a provider serves.
“We teach medical students and nurses about all of the technicalities and the hard work that it takes to take care of other humans,” Dr. Waldrum said. “However, one of the most important elements of excellence in providing health care is connecting with other people and caring. We know the data is very clear, it’s been shown many times that the better connection you have with that patient, the better they do. They’ll take their medications, they’ll follow your advice and their outcomes are better.”
He also noted that with expanding technologies and societal changes, the connection aspect in health care is needed now as much as ever and acknowledged a shift toward even more compassionate care in recent years. He expressed deep gratitude for the care teams making caring environments for patient and their families a priority.
Dr. Jason Foltz, chief medical officer with ECU Health Physicians, shared that the morning of the event, he had multiple visits with patients who did not have medical needs, but just needed someone to talk to about anxieties around medications or upcoming procedures. He said these interactions with patients and families are just as important, if not more important, than the medical care he provides.
“These are our patients and what they need is what you all provide them, which is a listening ear and the fact that you choose to care,” Dr. Foltz said. “At the heart of all this, everything we do—we’re just people serving people. That’s what today is about, to recognize and highlight that amazing spirit you bring and what really makes ECU Health, ECU Health.”
Dr. James Powell, a Patient Choice Award recipient, agreed with Dr. Foltz about the heart of a provider’s work. He said his team makes all the difference by starting each visit with a warm smile and a helping hand for patients.
He said he was excited to share the award with his team and recognize them for going above and beyond and developing positive patient relationships, which he uses for the foundation of each visit.
“We’ve been truly blessed, because we have a wonderful head nurse who has really created a good vibe among the staff as they go through day-to-day work. I’m sure a lot of you feel the same way about your staff,” Dr. Powell said. “When patients are calling, they’re calling because they need something. The something that they get is an answer to that question but a lot of times, it’s also just something that helps to calm them down and to make them feel good about things. I think that we’d really be remiss on a day like today if we didn’t think about the staff with whom we work, who really allow us to do what we do every day.”
ECU Health Chief Experience Officer Dr. Julie Kennedy Oehlert served as Master of Ceremonies for the event and encouraged providers to take their award boxes – filled with a plaque, stickers, star pins and more – and share them with their teams who support them every day.
She said during the event that the awards are truly special because they come from the patients these providers serve.
“The patients really showed us that you create a caring environment,” Dr. Oehlert said. “As much as you love them, they love you right back. We just want to thank you all for everything you do every day and recognize that the patients think you are amazing.”
About ECU Health Patient Choice Awards
Established in 2023, Patient Choice Awards recognize and honor ECU Health team members and providers for their dedication, effort and support to eastern North Carolina and the patients and families ECU Health serves. Winning teams and providers are chosen based upon commentary and feedback collected from patient surveys. Recognition events are held throughout the system in the fall and winter to showcase the people and teams who go above and beyond in support of our mission to improve the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina.
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Teams across ECU Health recognized by patients with Patient Choice Awards
[1] Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring is a foundation of patient care and focuses on the importance of the interpersonal relationship between a caregiver and care receiver. The theory states that this relationship helps not only the person receiving care, but the caregiver as well.
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Dr. Jonathan Hamilton, chief of urology at ECU Health, was recognized with the Patriot Award, an honor presented by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) that underscores Dr. Hamilton’s exceptional support for military personnel and their families.
This award reflects the vital role Dr. Hamilton has played in fostering a supportive environment for team members who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, as well as their loved ones. The award highlights efforts such as granting time off prior to and after deployment, accommodating flexible work arrangements, providing leaves of absence as needed and assistance to military families.
“I am truly honored to receive this award,” said Dr. Hamilton. “As someone deeply patriotic, with both of my grandfathers having served in World War II, I’ve always believed that service takes many forms.
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While my path has been different, I feel it’s my duty to support those who serve our country. Dr. Hugh Mallory Reeves is not only a great friend and colleague, but also a true patriot who has made tremendous sacrifices for this nation. It’s a privilege to support him as he fulfills his duty to our country.”
Dr. Hugh Mallory Reeves, a urologist at ECU Health who also serves as a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves, nominated Dr. Hamilton for the Patriot Award in recognition of direct and meaningful support. Dr. Reeves, one of only a few urologists serving in the Army Reserves, has balanced his dual careers since 2003 with significant support from Dr. Hamilton and ECU Health.
“ECU Health supports veterans and appreciates their service,” said Dr. Reeves. “If it weren’t for an entity like this and people like Dr. Hamilton, we wouldn’t be able to be here with long careers as physicians and military service.”
Retired Navy Cmdr. Ken Oppenheim, a representative from the ESGR, alongside Dr. Reeves, formally presented the award to Dr. Hamilton, providing an opportunity to celebrate his impactful contributions and recognize the ways he has supported service members and their families.
“ECU Health has always been a strong advocate for serving veterans and supporting our military,” said Dr. Jason Foltz, chief medical officer at ECU Health Physicians. “Dr. Hamilton’s commitment to accommodating physicians currently serving in the military is integral to who we are.”
Anthony Bartholomew, vice president of operations for ECU Health Physicians, echoed these sentiments.
“Dr. Hamilton is a remarkable leader who supports all of his team members – military and non-military – in every way possible,” said Bartholomew. “It’s an honor and a privilege to have someone so dedicated to eastern North Carolina and our patients as part of our team.”
Dr. Hamilton’s nomination was reviewed and approved by the ESGR state committee. The North Carolina ESGR is a Department of Defense office led and operated by volunteers who aim to foster supportive work environments for members of the National Guard and Reserve.
Robert J. Greczyn, Jr., chair, ECU Health Board of Directors, recently received the 2024 Trustees Award for Distinction from the East Carolina University Board of Trustees in honor of his extraordinary leadership and service. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who embody excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to advancing ECU’s mission of student success, public service, and regional transformation.
“I am deeply honored to receive the 2024 Trustees Award for Distinction,” said Greczyn. “East Carolina University and ECU Health have been central to my journey of service, and I am grateful to have played a part in advancing the collective mission to improve lives across our region.”
The Trustees Award for Distinction is reserved for leaders who inspire, influence and motivate others toward achieving shared goals. Honorees demonstrate a profound dedication to ECU’s strategic vision through championing partnerships, fostering philanthropy, and promoting public service—all while exemplifying strong character and professionalism.
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Greczyn’s devotion to ECU runs deep. As a former member and chair of the ECU Board of Trustees from 2003 to 2011, Greczyn has continuously worked to elevate the university. Currently, he serves as chair of the ECU Health Board of Directors, where his extensive health care experience has been pivotal in integrating the health system with the Brody School of Medicine.
“Bob’s passion for serving the underserved and addressing complex health care challenges has been a guiding light for ECU Health,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, chief executive officer of ECU Health and dean of the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. “Through his leadership, the organization has stayed true to its mission-driven focus on improving the health and well-being across eastern North Carolina.”
Greczyn has been a prominent leader in North Carolina’s health care landscape for over three decades. Professionally, he served as the president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina from 2000 to 2010.
He also served as president and CEO of Healthsource Health Plans Inc. Greczyn also established a Rural Health Center in Anson County. His expertise running both not-for-profit and for-profit entities is supported by a leadership style that emphasizes enterprise risk, compliance, ethics and governance standards.
“As a member of our board, Bob has always advocated for patients, their families, team members, students, educators and especially those in underserved communities who struggle to gain access high-quality care,” said Dr. Waldrum. “His focus has always been on how we can make the greatest impact for our region. I am grateful to have the privilege to serve alongside so many mission-driven individuals like Bob who dedicate themselves to advancing this beautiful part of our state.”
Greczyn’s influence extends far beyond professional achievements; his commitment to serving underserved communities, championing collaboration, and driving positive change underscores his dedication to the mission of ECU. Greczyn’s recognition through the Trustees Award for Distinction is a testament to his enduring impact on ECU, ECU Health and the communities we serve.
Greenville, N.C. – Trish Baise, ECU Health chief nursing executive, was recently honored as one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2024 Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) to know. Since stepping into the role in 2022, Baise has cultivated a dynamic nursing environment that drives innovations to enhance patient care quality and elevate patient experiences across eastern North Carolina.
“This recognition by Becker’s reflects the collective efforts of the incredible nurses across ECU Health, all of whom are dedicated to creating an environment where nurses and patients alike can thrive,” said Baise. “Together, we are driving innovative approaches in rural health care, committed to excellence in all we do and enhancing patient care across eastern North Carolina. I am honored that ECU Health has been recognized for this commitment.”
Tasked with addressing nurse staffing shortages, managing budgets and fostering growth opportunities for emerging nurses, the nursing leaders recognized by Becker’s play a crucial role in shaping the future of nursing.
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Beyond leading nursing departments, CNOs drive innovative initiatives that uphold high patient care standards. Their roles demand a unique blend of clinical expertise and executive leadership. This list honors CNOs for their commitment to optimizing health care.
Baise has led efforts to establish a supportive environment where both nurses and patients can thrive. Under her leadership, ECU Health has achieved its third Magnet recognition, underscoring a commitment to nursing excellence. The Advancing Nursing Practice and Excellence (APEX) initiative has been foundational to this strategy, focusing on innovation, research and collaborative efforts to advance nursing in rural health care. Through partnerships with East Carolina University and local colleges, ECU Health also invests in the future of nursing, offering residency programs to equip new nurses with essential skills. This vision represents ECU Health’s dedication to defining a new standard for patient care and nursing excellence in eastern North Carolina.
“As the region’s largest health care provider and educator, ECU Health has a unique role in shaping community health, and Trish understands that our mission’s success depends on attracting the best providers, nurses and care teams to our health system,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, CEO of ECU Health and Dean of the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. “Trish’s dedication to service and our mission aligns with ECU Health’s work to build the model for rural academic health care. ECU Health is proud to lead the way in defining the future of nursing in our region.”
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There were plenty of smiles and handshakes at the Teachers of Quality Academy (TQA) 7.0 Recognition Ceremony on Sept. 30, as 37 graduates from the most recent TQA cohort celebrated successful completion of the program alongside ECU Health and Brody School of Medicine leaders.
TQA is a professional development program for health care leaders designed to fundamentally change care delivery through a curriculum focused on building knowledge and skills in Health Systems Science which comprehensively explores how health care is delivered. Participants engage in advanced learning in quality improvement, patient safety and team leadership, develop improvement projects to apply these skills across the health system, teach others in their environment about these concepts and evaluate the outcomes of improvement interventions. Leading by example, TQA participants promote a culture of quality and safety across the enterprise.
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This year’s program graduates came from multiple areas of expertise and locations, including ECU Health Physicians, ECU Health Medical Center, ECU Health North Hospital, ECU Health Chowan Hospital and Contentnea Health. Additionally, the cohort includes participants from ECU Health’s Rural Family Medicine Residency Program, ECU Health’s Administrative Fellowship Program and the MedServ Fellowship Program.
“As an academic health care organization, it’s incredibly gratifying to see educational programming like TQA woven into ECU Health and Brody’s culture of quality improvement,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, ECU Health CEO and dean of Brody. “You can see and feel the pride that people take in improving quality, and that has real tangible impacts on patients who can experience better health and wellness as a result. This cohort and these graduates are an example of our quality improvement culture which TQA has helped build.”
According to Dr. Jennifer Sutter, TQA physician director, the diverse, multidisciplinary class represented the ultimate goal of the program: to further knowledge and instill principles that help health care professionals across eastern North Carolina improve quality on behalf of the patients they serve.
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“It is exciting for us as program leaders recognize and celebrate these dedicated health care professionals for successfully completing TQA,” Sutter said. “Those of us involved in the program have been fortunate to witness incredible growth from our 7.0 cohort. We could not be more proud of what they’ve accomplished and how they will use their knowledge and skills to help further high-quality care in their individual clinical setting through out eastern North Carolina.”
The seventh iteration of the program was comprised of 12 half-day sessions alternating concepts of leadership development and new competencies of Health Systems Science, including patient safety, quality improvement, systems thinking, population health and team-based care. Each learning session also emphasized wellness topics enabling participants to engage in supplemental activities to further enhance the experience of life while at work. The year-long program culminated in each participant completing a comprehensive quality improvement project in their area of focus.
“As part of TQA, I had the honor of partnering with leaders from our community hospitals—North, Chowan, and the Medical Center—all of whom shared a commitment to serving our community,” said ECU Health administrative fellow Madison Stevens, a member of the 7.0 cohort. “The sessions empowered us to explore and refine our leadership philosophies, building a strong foundation rooted in quality improvement, professional growth, and innovation. The program has equipped me with the tools to become an effective and open-minded leader. In our project, my team focused on post-event debriefing in the emergency department, prioritizing the well-being of our team members alongside clinical learning to help teams navigate high-stress situations and improve patient care outcomes. We look forward to sharing our results and broadening our focus on quality improvement to provide exceptional patient care.”
The TQA curriculum is also designed around experiences that span the continuum of care in multiple areas of clinical focus which enables participants to be better prepared to meet real-world challenges. This intentional design, according to ECU Health Chief Quality Officer and Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Niti Armistead, enables TQA graduates to immediately help drive quality improvements in the clinical environment.
“TQA is so important because it creates a community of interdisciplinary professionals committed to improving quality both here at ECU Health and beyond,” Dr. Armistead said. “Quality is a critical component of our quintuple aim and the work being done by TQA program leaders and participants directly ties to our ability to improve the health and well-being of the region. Through TQA, participants learn by doing and acquire collaborative problem resolution skills to drive continuous improvement.”
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health Medical Center has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® Certification for brain tumor care, recognizing the program’s ongoing dedication to delivering safe, high-quality patient care. According to The Joint Commission, the Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that recognizes health care organizations that provide comprehensive care for patients with brain tumors.
“This recognition from The Joint Commission is a testament to the incredible neuro-oncological expertise, technology and research available here at ECU Health Medical Center,” said Jay Briley, president, ECU Health Medical Center. “It is immensely humbling to witness the incredible efforts that take place within the walls of the hospital every single day to further our understanding of brain tumors and brain tumor treatment. We could not be more proud of every team member who helped receive this prestigious certification.”
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ECU Health Medical Center underwent a rigorous onsite review in July. During the visit, the Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with related certification standards including compliances with consensus-based national standards, effective integration of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to manage and optimize care, and organization of approach to performance measurement and performance improvement, including data collection and analysis. Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.
“Brain tumor care certification recognizes health care organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, DNP, MBA, RN, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend ECU Health Medical Center for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”
ECU Health Medical Center boasts a comprehensive neuro-oncological care program, led by a board-certified neuro-oncologist. The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® Certification for brain tumor care highlights the collaboration between interdisciplinary teams in oncology and neurosciences who are committed to advancing the treatment of brain tumors through research, numerous clinical trials, patient care, education and prevention.
“Obtaining this certification highlights our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment to delivering exceptional care for our patients with brain tumors,” said Dr. Jasmin Jo, director, neuro-oncology program, ECU Health. “Our primary objective is to ensure we deliver high-quality care consistently throughout every stage of the patient journey, from initial presentation and diagnosis to treatment, and follow-up care, as well as comprehensive education for both patients and their families. I could not be more proud of the entire brain tumor team for their remarkable dedication and hard work in achieving this certification. We remain steadfast in our pursuit of continuous improvement in the treatment and care of our patients.”
In addition to its clinical and academic expertise, ECU Health Medical Center offers an array of comprehensive brain tumor interventions, supported by state-of-the-art technology like GammaTile and Gamma Knife treatment, as well as innovative clinical trials that improve brain tumor knowledge, treatments and outcomes. This blend of cutting-edge technology and academic collaboration enhances the precision and effectiveness of care, ultimately leading to better outcomes for patients.
“Patients diagnosed with brain tumors deserve access to high-quality physicians, technology and treatment options close to home,” said Dr. Stuart Lee, executive director, ECU Health Neurosciences. “I am proud of the team behind this important certification because they are truly living our values as a mission-driven organization. With comprehensive brain tumor services available in the region, we are proud to do our part to improve the health and well-being of those we proudly serve.”
For more information about ECU Health’s neurological care services, please visit ECUHealth.org/Neuro or The Joint Commission website.
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health Medical Center has been nationally recognized as a national leader in patient experience for the second consecutive year, according PEP Health’s 2025 rankings. PEP Health evaluated more than 35 million online reviews from patients and their families in 2024, offering a real-time look at patient experiences across health care providers nationwide.
ECU Health Medical Center’s recognition was highlighted by top-5 national rankings in several categories including overall patient experience, communication & involvement and emotional support.
“At ECU Health, creating caring experiences for our patients and team members is at the core of our mission,” said Dr. Julie Kennedy Oehlert, chief experience officer at ECU Health. “Our definition of excellence is shaped by feedback from our patients and fostered by the compassion and dedication of our team. Being recognized nationally for our excellence in communication and emotional support is a rewarding acknowledgment of the safe, healing environments we strive to create. We are committed to continually listening and evolving to meet the needs of those we are honored to serve.”
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PEP Health’s 2025 Rankings focus on hospitals with at least 750 staffed beds and at least 250 patient experience comments left online between Sept. 1, 2023, and Sept. 1, 2024. These comments, sourced from patients and their families on social media and review platforms, were analyzed against seven internationally recognized domains of patient-centered care: fast access, effective treatment, emotional support, communication & involvement, attention to physical and environmental needs, continuity of care, and billing and administration.
According to PEP Health, research has shown that enhancing patient experience is not only associated with improved care outcomes, but also strengthens financial performance, safety and health equity. Positive patient experiences directly impact CMS Star Ratings, which are closely tied to reimbursement rates and play a critical role in driving new patients and increasing patient retention. ECU Health’s commitment to delivering exceptional care in eastern North Carolina ensures that the most vulnerable populations in receive the support and attention they need.
“This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our team members who bring compassion and empathy to every patient interaction,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “Caring for patients during some of life’s most challenging moments is more than a job – it’s a calling. I am incredibly proud of the heart and commitment our team demonstrates every day. Earning this national recognition for patient experience reflects their hard work and the trust our patients place in us, and we will continue to prioritize compassionate, patient-centered care in all we do.”
The Great 100 Nurses in North Carolina honors the nursing profession by recognizing nurses around the state for their commitment to excellence. The recipients are distinguished for their outstanding professional ability as well as their contributions to improving health care services in their communities. This year, 19 ECU Health nurses were recognized as honorees, including Dennis Campbell, II, Myra Thomson, Alex Gilbert, Gina Coldwell and Lou Ann Proctor.
Dennis Campbell, II
Although he is now the president of ECU Health Beaufort Hospital and the interim president at ECU Health North Hospital, Dennis Campbell, II began his career in 2004 as a nurse in the medical/surgical intensive care unit. Over time, he spent his early career in the emergency department, the burn center and the telemetry floor, and he was a staff nurse educator and a clinical educator for local nursing schools in his home state of Indiana.
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However, a job opportunity brought him to eastern North Carolina, and he’s since navigated his way into quality leadership, corporate compliance, behavioral health and nursing leadership.
Dennis said finding his path to nursing was a winding road. “I was looking for something I could do that would provide a secure job,” he shared. “I shadowed a nurse in the local community as well as a respiratory therapist. What attracted me to nursing was how polished that nurse was. She was neatly dressed in white scrubs and a hat. The way she presented herself to her patients made me say, ‘I can do that.’” What kept Dennis coming back day after day was the difference he was making every day. “It’s the connection with people at the most vulnerable times of their lives,” he said. “I get to make the ordinary extraordinary, and if there’s something I can do to put a smile on your face, that also fills my cup.” That hasn’t changed since Dennis found his way into leadership roles. “It’s a platform that impacts healthcare and people in a larger way.”
Still, Dennis was surprised that “little old me” was nominated for and selected as a Great 100 Nurse. “It says a lot about what my colleagues think about me, and I’m grateful,” he said. “And it’s good for all Great 100 nurses, because it’s often the case that we are the unsung heroes. It means people are taking notice and want to recognize those who give their heart and soul.” Dennis said the honor is also a legacy for his family. “They don’t get to go to work with me every day and see what I do, and my work is hard to quantify. To have that recognition is impactful to my family.”
Myra Thomson
Myra Thomson, a nurse manager in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) and the Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy program at ECU Health Medical Center, decided to be a nurse because her mother was a nurse. “It was all I knew; I was raised in a medical profession home. It fit me and my personality,” Myra said.
The East Carolina University graduate began her career with ECU Health right after graduation. During her clinical rotation on the medical intermediate unit, she had the opportunity to shadow in the MICU. This confirmed Myra’s conviction to work with the critically ill patient population. “I love that there’s a complexity, with more than one thing to treat,” Myra said. She also enjoys the MICU team. “It’s the place to be,” she said. “I love my team at work and outside of work. They call me if they need something, and I check in on them. They’re my people.”
Myra said it was amazing to find out she was named a Great 100 Nurse. “It’s an honor for me that the people I work with think enough of me to say what they did about me. It shows they’re exactly why I do what I do.” It’s also special that so many ECU Health nurses are recognized this year. “The nurses here work very hard across the system, and they deserve to be recognized. It makes you proud to work at ECU Health,” Myra said.
Alex Gilbert
Alex Gilbert, a staff nurse III in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU), calls himself a “second generation nurse,” because both of his parents were also nurses. “Mom works in the ECU Health Cancer Center,” Alex said. “Dad was a flight nurse with EastCare. That’s how my parents met.”
Alex used to watch his father on the helipad and wait for him to get off work, which sparked his own interest in a health care profession. That spark was reignited when his grandmother got sick during his senior year of high school. “That renewed my interest and showed me I could care for people. I knew I had a calling.”
After graduating from East Carolina University with his BSN, Alex split his time between the SICU and the ECU Health EastCare Transport Team as a flight RN. He also serves as an EMT-B in the community. Alex said he was surprised when he discovered he was a Great 100 Nurse honoree. “I can think of so many others who deserve this award,” he said. “We don’t do the job for recognition; we do what we do to care for people.” Alex did cite his passion for his work as a key factor in his success, as well as the support from his family and his co-workers. “It’s not just a nine to five job; it’s someone’s life. It’s an honor and a pleasure to care for someone. But I can’t take all the credit. My faith, my family and my co-workers all play a part. I’d put my team up against any in the country, and I wouldn’t be getting this award if not for them. I’m just a piece of the puzzle.”
ECU Health’s representation in the Great 100 Nurses is a testament to the care our nurses provide, and the education and support ECU Health provides its nurses, Alex said. “We’re the biggest level one trauma center East of I-95,” he said. “Our patients are the sickest of the sick, and our nurses are on the top of their game.”
Gina Coldwell
A Newport News, Virginia, native, Gina Coldwell knew she had an interest in nursing early-on, but she couldn’t go to school while caring for her four small children. “I was a stay-at-home mom for 15 years,” she said. “But then I got divorced and was working two minimum-wage jobs and I wanted to do something I enjoyed.” That’s when Gina went back to school and received her associate degree in nursing from Edgecombe Community College in 2019. “I started working at ECU Health that following summer,” Gina said. She began on the Neuroscience Intermediate Unit, but she also continued her education to complete her BSN from East Carolina University in 2021, followed by enrolling in a master’s program at Carson Newman University, with plans to graduate in 2025.
Gina said she didn’t know what specialty she wanted after initially graduating from nursing school. For her, the team on 3 North drew her to the neuroscience unit. It was a challenging first year, but Gina said she has grown to love the challenge. “It’s hard to not take the work home with me,” she said. “But it’s so fascinating. You get such a diverse group of people, from someone who fell and broke their back to someone who had a stroke. It’s not an easy fix, but you have the benefit of seeing the fruits of your labor and how your patients improve. It’s so rewarding and fulfilling.”
That passion is one reason Gina was nominated for and recognized as a Great 100 Nurse. “I was shocked when I found out,” Gina said. “I was proud because I still consider myself a baby nurse. And we have amazing nurses at ECU Health. We’re a Level I Trauma hospital, and everything we deal with is big. You must have your heart in it, and you must have good leadership that recognizes that heart.” Gina also works with new graduates and new hires. “I love to teach and train,” she said. “And if I don’t know something, I ask someone who does. We’ll find out the answer together.”
Lou Ann Proctor
Lou Ann Proctor, a staff nurse IV in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), calls herself a legacy Great 100 Nurse. “My mother, Janice Proctor, was in the first group selected to be a Great 100 Nurse in 1989, the year I graduated from nursing school at ECU,” Lou Ann said. “My Aunt Lucy Weaver and Aunt Becky Lewis were also chosen in 1994 and 1993. Sadly, I just lost my mother last year, and she would have loved this.”
It was her mother’s work that inspired Lou Ann to become a nurse in the first place. “My father was a farmer, so when I turned 15, I wanted to get out of the tobacco fields and I went to work with my mother at Edgecombe General Hospital in Tarboro. I got to work beside her and see how amazing she was at her job,” she said.
Lou Ann has continued that legacy by being nominated as a Great 100 Nurse several times before being an honoree this year, although she remains humble about the work she does every day. “I’ve been a bedside nurse for 35 years and have been involved in Nurse Congress, Quality/EBP Council and my unit council, but there are so many nurses I would nominate for this award. That recognition is overdue and well deserved for them.” When she found out she has won the award this year, the moment was bittersweet. “My co-workers nominated me this time and I was both thrilled and heartbroken to be selected,” she said. “It would have meant so much if my mother was still here. But my Aunt Lucy and family plan to attend the Gala with me and that will make it special.”
The recipients will be honored at a statewide gala in September, to be held in Concord.
Greenville, N.C. – The American Psychiatric Association recently awarded East Carolina University (ECU) and ECU Health’s N.C. Statewide Telepsychiatry Program (NC-STeP) the prestigious Psychiatric Services Achievement Bronze Award for its significant contributions to the mental health field. NC-STeP, a virtual care-based program focused on enhancing access to mental health services in underserved parts of the state, was created in 2013 and is effectively reducing patient lengths of stay in emergency departments, increasing efficiency and improving costs by reducing the number of involuntary commitments, eliminating unnecessary admissions and improving patient transition to aftercare to reduce repeated visits.
“We are incredibly proud and honored to receive the Psychiatric Services Achievement Bronze Award from the American Psychiatric Association,” said Dr. Sy Saeed, director of the ECU Center for Telepsychiatry and founding executive director of NC-STeP.
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“This recognition highlights the unique strength of ECU and ECU Health working together to advance academic medicine and research to improve the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina. Through the innovative model developed by NC-STeP, we have leveraged our combined expertise to significantly improve mental health care across North Carolina, demonstrating how our collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful, statewide impact.”
NC-STeP provides telepsychiatry services in hospital emergency departments, as well as in the community-based medical clinics, to individuals in need of a psychiatric assessment. The vision of NC-STeP is to assure that individuals who present to any of its clinical sites, anywhere in the state of North Carolina, experiencing an acute behavioral health crisis will receive timely, evidence-based psychiatric consultation for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
The American Psychiatric Association has recognized innovative programs serving individuals with mental illness or disabilities through the Psychiatric Services Achievement Awards since 1949. This award honors exceptional programs that offer innovative services, emphasize quality improvement, effectively utilize psychiatrists, peer support specialists, and other staff and actively involve consumers and their families.
NC-STeP is now an established model that is known nationally and internationally for its work with underserved communities. Dr. Saeed and members of the NC-STeP team have lectured and presented on this innovative model nationwide and internationally, including being an invited speaker at a White House Convening on telehealth in 2016. Hosted by ECU’s Center for Telepsychiatry, NC-STeP has conducted over 91,000 psychiatric assessments, at its 58 clinical sites across the state and has saved North Carolina more than $59 million by avoiding unneeded hospitalizations alone. Approximately one-third of the patients served had no insurance, with around 46% covered by Medicaid and Medicare.
In 2023, ECU received a $3.2 million grant from the United Health Foundation to provide mental health services for youth. Dr. Saeed, the principal investigator on the grant, established NC-STeP-Peds as part of the grant to provide mental health care services to children and adolescents in rural and underserved parts of the state. Six pediatric primary care clinics across the state have a space within the clinic where patients meet virtually with a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) for therapy sessions. Patients referred for psychiatric care will also meet virtually with the child psychiatrist in the same space.
“NC-STeP is the perfect example of how the partnership between ECU and ECU Health is at the forefront of driving innovation in transformative behavioral health care in eastern North Carolina and beyond,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, CEO of ECU Health and dean of the Brody School of Medicine at ECU. “NC-STeP leverages local academic and clinical expertise to address the most urgent challenges in rural health, especially in behavioral health. Together, we are not just meeting the needs of rural communities; we are pioneering new approaches that will reshape health outcomes across North Carolina. The American Psychiatric Association’s recognition of NC-STeP underscores our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that ensure all North Carolinians have access to the care they need, right here in our state.”
The Great 100 Nurses in North Carolina honors the nursing profession by recognizing nurses around the state for their commitment to excellence. The recipients are distinguished for their outstanding professional ability as well as their contributions to improving health care services in their communities. This year, 19 ECU Health nurses were recognized as honorees, including Kayla Anderson, Brittany Harriett, Tracy Hobbs, Elizabeth Seawell and Deborah Rice. Each week in September we will highlight all 19 honorees.
Kayla Anderson
A Washington, North Carolina native, Kayla Anderson was born in Beaufort County Hospital and now has worked at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital for seven years where she serves as the education coordinator at the Center for Learning and Performance. She received her associate degree in nursing from Beaufort Community College, her BSN from Winston-Salem State University and she is currently pursuing her MSN in nursing education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
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Kayla said she decided to become a nurse after watching both her sister and her husband go through nursing school. “I was initially in administrative and adult education roles, and I felt somewhat unfulfilled,” she said. “The content my sister and husband studied was intriguing, and I was able to understand it, sparking my curiosity to learn more. This curiosity led me to take a job at the Center for Learning and Performance at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, and then I applied to nursing school.” Blending her newfound passion for nursing with adult education “seemed like a calling,” she said. “It became clear that nursing was where I was meant to be.”
Kayla said that to be recognized as a Great 100 Nurse is a tremendous honor. “I am surrounded by many deserving colleagues, and I’m deeply grateful for the support and mentorship I have received throughout my journey,” she said. “This recognition highlights my dedication to learning and teaching within the field of nursing, motivates me to keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in nursing education and patient care and it reflects the nurturing environment at ECU Health.”
Being a key player in that supportive environment is important to Kayla. “I am eager to support my peers and actively promote their achievements so that they, too, may receive recognition, perhaps even as a fellow Great 100 Nurse,” she said. “This recognition is more than a personal accolade; it’s a celebration of the collective commitment and progress of North Carolina nurses!”
Brittany Harriett
While Brittany Harriett was the recipient of the 2022 Juanita Jackson award and a nominee for the 2024 Susan Gerard Excellence in Leadership award, being a Great 100 Nurse is an honor she didn’t expect. “It means I’m doing something right and have made an impact on someone.”
Brittany is the assistant nurse manager on the medical unit at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, and she also works part-time at the ECU College of Nursing. She was always a people person, and she initially considered nursing because her grandmother graduated from Duke University with a nursing degree. It was her father’s heart attack and subsequent triple bypass surgery in 2004, however, that solidified her interest. “While the doctors and surgeons were amazing, seeing the nurses care for and manage my dad’s care before and after surgery was truly amazing,” she shared. “They worked so seamlessly and gracefully; they made saving someone’s life look effortless. I knew in that moment that I wanted to be them.”
Being named a Great 100 Nurse has taken Brittany full circle, she said, from being a 12-year-old kid watching nurses care for her dad to being recognized for the very qualities they showed and that inspired her to become a nurse. “I hope I received this award because of my commitment and care for my patients,” she said. “I am thankful to whomever nominated me.”
Tracy Hobbs
After graduating from Barton College in Wilson with her BSN 27 years ago, Tracy Hobbs began her nursing career at ECU Health Medical Center and never looked back. She’s now the assistant manager for the 3 East Hospitalist Unit.
As a child, she gained inspiration from her mother, who went to nursing school when Tracy was five. “When I was little, I’d always want to play nurse instead of teacher. My mother would bring her CPR manikin home and I’d invite my friends over to teach them CPR,” Tracy recalled. She has always felt that nursing was her true calling.
Tracy has worked in a medical/surgical setting of some form or another her entire career, a choice that is “not for the faint of heart,” she said. “It’s not easy. You see such a variety of ages, diagnoses, socioeconomic statuses and more. It’s definitely a place where you can make a huge difference for people who have a great need, and being able to help people during their darkest moments is a privilege.” While 90% of her career has been at the bedside, she enjoys her role as a leader. “I love my team; they’re my family. I love moving the profession of nursing towards a positive direction on our unit.” During her tenure she has participated in a vast number unit based and hospital wide initiatives. She also enjoys mentoring new staff and seeing professional growth in her team.
When she found out she was named a Great 100 Nurse, Tracy said she felt undeserving. “I know and have worked with so many wonderful nurses who are just as qualified, but it is a true honor to be recognized for the contributions I have made during my career.
Elizabeth Seawell
As the trauma program manager at ECU Health Medical Center, Elizabeth Seawell has played an integral part of ECU Health maintaining its’ Level I Trauma Center status. She’s worked at ECU Health for 16 years with experience as a surgical/trauma nurse, professional development specialist, and educator for surgery, trauma, and cardiac units. Elizabeth strives to ensure everyone continues to grow and develop in their nursing skills. She’s an active participant in the Eastern North Carolina Nursing Honor Guard, the Trauma Survivors Network, the Professional Practice Council and other local community organizations.
Elizabeth is a native of Greenville where she grew up in an agricultural environment. She knew she wanted to be in health care as she saw how important the role of nurses and physicians were to her family. “When trauma hits home with your family, it leaves an indelible mark on your life,” she said. Her brother suffered a severe arm injury and her mother had several major surgeries. She witnessed the care provided to both of them by their nurses and knew that was her calling. Elizabeth attended East Carolina University obtaining both her BSN and MSN, finding her passion in caring for surgery/trauma patients.
“I am profoundly honored and humbled being chosen as a Great 100 nurse. Being recognized highlights my motivation and dedication to the continued growth and advancement of our trauma care. It takes a team effort on a daily basis to achieve the kind of care this wonderful group of nurses provide in their specific areas of practice. And to have 19 of us throughout the ECU Health system receiving this award shows we have the right people in the right places to impact the care of our patients in eastern North Carolina.”
She was also quick to emphasize that this sort of success doesn’t come without help. “I adore our team and appreciate my mentors and colleagues that have helped me throughout my career,” she said. “Caring for trauma patients requires many levels of collaboration and our team and institution does a wonderful job ensuring our patients receive the highest level of care. I am beyond thankful for my profession and this recognition that has been bestowed upon me.”
Deborah Rice
Deborah Rice always wanted to be a nurse, but life events prevented her from going to college when she planned. Then, in 2008, she and her family experienced four deaths, and Deborah was involved in care for all four of them until they passed away. “I was working at a bank as a database analyst at the time, but I knew deep down that I still wanted to be a nurse,” she said. In 2011, Deborah’s job at the bank was dissolved, so she decided that was the time to pursue her lifelong dream.
She first attended Edgecombe Community College to get her associate degree in nursing, followed by her BSN from East Carolina University. She joined ECU Health in 2019, where she began on the surgical oncology unit and then to her current role as a staff nurse III in the palliative care unit. “Taking care of patients at the end of life is my passion,” she said. “It’s such a blessing when I can help a patient and their family during such a difficult time.
Deborah said it was an honor to be chosen as a Great 100 Nurse. “When I received my letter, I was really in shock and disbelief,” she shared. “I’ve only been a nurse for eight years, so I never expected to receive such an honor. But I do what I do because I truly love it. Receiving this recognition is humbling, and it makes me want to do everything I can to ensure all of our patients receive the best care possible.”
The recipients will be honored at a statewide gala in September, to be held in Concord, North Carolina