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.
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.
“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.
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
Greenville, N.C. – Nineteen ECU Health nurses have been named part of the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina by the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina Board of Directors. The recipients are recognized for their outstanding professional ability and contributions to improving health care services in their communities.
“ECU Health nurses have devoted their careers to caring for others and serving our community with exceptional dedication,” said Trish Baise, chief nursing executive, ECU Health. “I am so proud of the amazing nurses recognized by the Great 100. Thank you to this year’s honorees and to every member of the ECU Health nursing team. Your commitment to delivering excellent, compassionate care each day exemplifies our mission and makes a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Since 1989, The North Carolina Great 100, Inc. has recognized and honored nurses around the state for their commitment to excellence and to promote a positive image of the nursing profession. Each year, the Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina Board of Directors asks patients, health care workers, friends and family members to nominate an outstanding nurse practicing in North Carolina. Thousands of nominations are reviewed, and 100 nurses are selected and honored at a statewide gala.
The ECU Health nurses chosen as Great 100 Nurses of North Carolina in 2024 are:
Kayla E. Anderson, BSN, RN, CEN
Kayla E. Anderson, BSN, RN, CEN, is an education coordinator at the Center for Learning and Performance at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, a campus of ECU Health Medical Center. She has dedicated seven years to ECU Health. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Winston-Salem State University and is pursuing a master’s degree in nursing education at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Board certified in emergency nursing, Kayla also holds provider certifications in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), along with instructor certifications in Basic Life Support, Advanced Stroke Life Support and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention. She is an active member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
Kimberly Askew, RN
Kimberly Askew, RN, is staff nurse III at ECU Health Roanoke-Chowan Hospital. She began her journey at the hospital 19 years ago as a certified nursing assistant. It was her dream to be a Labor and Delivery nurse like her mother, who has served as a great inspiration for her. In her 15 years of nursing, she has served as a charge nurse, preceptor, childbirth educator, unit educator and an Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) instructor. During her years in Labor and Delivery, she helped the hospital achieve its 4 Star Breastfeeding Friendly designation. Since transitioning to peri-operative services, Kimberly has found enjoyment in creating a safe and comfortable environment for those who choose or require surgical services.
Dennis Campbell II, DHA, RN, FACHE
Dennis Campbell II, DHA, RN, FACHE, joined ECU Health Beaufort Hospital in December 2020 as vice president of Patient Care Services. He was named president in September 2023 after serving as interim president since February of that year. Dennis also serves as the interim president at ECU Health North Hospital, a position he has held since August 2024. Dennis began his health care journey as an intensive care registered nurse in 2004. Over the course of a progressive career, he has matriculated to the C-suite while gaining valuable experience in a variety of senior leadership and executive roles in nursing, quality, operations and compliance in North Carolina and Georgia. Dennis is a highly visible and collaborative leader skilled at navigating complex health systems to solve problems and execute strategic plans to deliver desired outcomes. He is a relationship builder who understands the value of relationships in developing strategies to promote health and wellness in the communities served. Dennis holds an associate and bachelor’s degree in nursing, a master’s degree in management and a doctorate degree in health care administration.
Gina Coldwell, BSN, RN-BC
Gina Coldwell, BSN, RN-BC, is a staff nurse II on the Neuroscience Intermediate Unit at ECU Health Medical Center. She has worked on this unit for the past five years. Gina earned her associate degree in nursing from Edgecombe Community College and her bachelor’s degree in nursing from East Carolina University. She is currently enrolled in the Family Nurse Practitioner master’s program at Carson-Newman University. She is medical-surgical board certified. Gina is a proud mother of four adult children and grandmother of five grandchildren.
Katie Elliott, BSN, RN, CRRN
Katie Elliott, BSN, RN, CRRN, is a staff nurse IV in the Radiation Oncology Clinic at ECU Health Medical Center and has been with the hospital for 15 years. Katie received her associate degree in nursing from Beaufort County Community College and her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Fayetteville State University.”. Katie is a certified rehabilitation registered nurse, serves as a co-chair on the ECU Outpatient Oncology Unit Based Council and is an active member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. In addition, Katie serves on ECU Health’s Coordinating Council and Environmental Council.
Alex Gilbert, BSN, RN, CCRN
Alex Gilbert, BSN, RN, CCRN, is a staff nurse III in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU). Alex has worked at ECU Health Medical Center for seven years and has spent time between the SICU and ECU Health EastCare as a flight nurse. Alex earned his bachelor’s degree in nursing from East Carolina University and obtained his critical care RN specialty certification. Alex is active in the community as an EMT-B and volunteering with community organizations in eastern North Carolina.
Rebecca Hagee, BSN, RN
Rebecca Hagee, BSN, RN, is a staff nurse III in the Surgical Oncology Clinic at ECU Health Cancer Center. Rebecca has worked for ECU Health Medical Center for six years. She earned her associate degree in nursing at Pitt Community College, and her bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.
Brittany Harriett, BSN, RN
Brittany Harriett, BSN, RN, is the assistant nurse manager on the Medical Unit at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital. She was the recipient of the 2022 Juanita Jackson award and a nominee for the 2024 Susan Gerard Excellence in Leadership award. She has worked with ECU Health for nine years. Brittany also works part time at the East Carolina University College of Nursing as a nurse consultant. Brittany earned her associate degree in nursing from Beaufort County Community College and her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Capella University. Outside of health care, Brittany is the mom of two active boys. They share a love for baseball, family time and their church.
Tracy Hobbs, BSN, RN-BC
Tracy Hobbs, BSN, RN-BC, is an assistant manager for the 3 East Hospitalist Unit at ECU Health Medical Center. She has worked at ECU Health Medical Center for the duration of her 27-year career. Tracy earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Barton College. She is specialty certified in medical-surgical nursing. She is active in endeavors to create positive change for the future of nursing at ECU Health Medical Center.
Kathryn Jarvis, DNP, RN, NPD-BC
Kathryn Jarvis, DNP, RN, NPD-BC, is the senior director for Children’s Services at Maynard Children’s Hospital. She has been a nurse at ECU Health Medical Center for 12 years with experience in pediatrics, nursing education and nursing leadership. Kathryn earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from East Carolina University and her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree with a concentration in nurse executive leadership from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She has also obtained specialty certification in nursing professional development. In addition to her role as senior director of Maynard Children’s Hospital, Kathryn is a part-time faculty member for East Carolina University’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Kathryn thoroughly enjoys her roles, as she has a passion for both nursing leadership and education.
Jennifer Lewis, BSN, RN
Jennifer Lewis, BSN, RN, is the outreach coordinator for ECU Health Medical Center Cancer Care. Jennifer has practiced nursing for 27 of the 32 years she has worked for ECU Health. Prior to transitioning to her current role in 2021, Jennifer worked at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital, a campus of ECU Health Medical Center in various inpatient and outpatient settings. Jennifer earned her associate degree in nursing from Beaufort County Community College and her bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Jennifer believes in the value of cultivating strong partnerships with churches, businesses, schools and civic organizations to promote awareness regarding the prevention and early detection of cancer.
Jessica Noble, MSN-NE, RNC-EFM
Jessica Noble, MSN-NE, RNC-EFM, is a registered nurse with over 20 years of experience in maternal health. She currently serves as the perinatal nurse champion and navigator for ECU Health, advocating for equitable perinatal care in eastern North Carolina. Jessica holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from East Carolina University and a master’s in nursing education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Jessica leads the “I Gave Birth” bracelet program and contributes to the Perinatal Quality Collaborative of North Carolina initiatives. An active member of the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, she has presented at conferences, co-authored a North Carolina Medical Journal article and serves on the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Maternal Health Task Force.
Amber Oakes, BSN, RN
Amber Oakes, BSN, RN, is a staff nurse IV in the Gynecologic Oncology Clinic at ECU Health Medical Center. Amber has worked at ECU Health for 14 years. Amber earned her associate degree in nursing from Pitt Community College and later obtained her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Western Carolina University.
Lou Ann Proctor, BSN, RN, CCRN
Lou Ann Proctor, BSN, RN, CCRN, is a staff nurse IV in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at ECU Health Medical Center and has been a nurse for 35 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the East Carolina University College of Nursing. She has been a member of American Association of Critical Care Nurses – Critical Care Registered Nurse for 18 years, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) instructor, charge nurse and a preceptor.
Deborah Rice, BSN, RN
Deborah Rice, BSN, RN, is a staff nurse III in the Palliative Care Unit at ECU Health Medical Center. She has worked for ECU Health for more than four years. Deborah earned her bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University. Deborah works as a charge nurse, clinical coach and quality lead for her unit. Deborah also works as an adjunct clinical instructor for Pitt Community College and is a member of North Carolina Nurse Association.
Elizabeth Seawell, MSN, RN-BC, NPD-BC
Elizabeth Seawell, MSN, NPD-BC, RN-BC, is the manager of the ECU Health Medical Center Trauma Program. Elizabeth has worked at ECU Health Medical Center for 16 years with experiences as a surgical/trauma staff nurse and professional development specialist. Elizabeth obtained both her bachelor’s degree in nursing and master’s degree in nursing education from East Carolina University. Elizabeth has specialty certifications in medical-surgical nursing and nursing professional development. Elizabeth is actively involved in the development and growth of the eastern North Carolina Nursing Honor Guard, Trauma Survivors Network, Professional Practice Council and other local community activities.
Myra Barnes Thompson, MSN, RN, CNML
Myra Thompson, MSN, RN, CNML, is the nurse manager of the Medical Intensive Care Unit and the Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy Program at ECU Health Medical Center. Myra has worked at ECU Health Medical Center for 17 years. Myra earned her bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University and her master’s degree from Western Governors University. Myra obtained her specialty certification as a certified nurse manager and leader from the American Organization for Nursing Leadership.
Virginia C. Tripp, BSN, RN, NPD-BC
Virginia “Ginny” Tripp, BSN, RN, NPD-BC, practices as a professional development specialist in the Center for Learning and Performance at ECU Health Medical Center. Ginny has been a registered nurse for 30 years and has served at ECU Health Medical Center for the past 15 years. She earned her associate degree in nursing at Craven Community College and her bachelor’s degree in nursing at East Carolina University. Ginny has obtained specialty certifications in the fields of case management and in nursing professional development. Ginny’s passion is to elevate the profession of nursing and encourage and support others in achieving their highest potential. Her highest purpose is to please God and fulfill her God-given calling in nursing by being a blessing in others’ lives each day. She is an active member of the ECU Health Medical Center Nursing Professional Development Council.
Kelly Trout, RN, OCN
Kelly Trout, RN, OCN, is a staff nurse III in the Medical Oncology Unit at ECU Health Medical Center. She has been a nurse on Medical Oncology for 15 years and has obtained specialty certification as an oncology certified nurse. She serves as a charge nurse and clinical coach on her unit. She is also the head of the Medical Oncology Retention Council and has started programs on her unit, such as the HOPE Christmas workshop for immunocompromised oncology patients. She is an active member of the Oncology Nursing Society.
Greenville, N.C. – The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association has awarded all nine ECU Health hospitals Get With the Guidelines® achievement awards for their work in treating stroke, diabetes, cardiac arrest, heart attack and heart failure. These awards recognize the health system’s commitment to following up-to-date, research-based guidelines for the treatment of heart disease, diabetes and stroke, ultimately leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer readmissions to the hospital.
“ECU Health is honored to receive national recognition from the American Heart Association for our unwavering commitment to providing top-tier care to eastern North Carolina,” said Teresa Anderson, PhD, RN, NE-BC, senior vice president of quality at ECU Health. “These achievements reflect the dedication and expertise of our teams who work tirelessly every day to deliver the best possible care to our patients across the health system. By adhering to the latest research-based guidelines, we are not only improving patient outcomes but also advancing our mission to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve.”
ECU Health recognitions include:
ECU Health Beaufort Hospital – A Campus of ECU Health Medical Center
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease Rural STEMI Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
ECU Health Bertie Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease Rural STEMI Bronze
ECU Health Chowan Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease Rural STEMI Silver
ECU Health Duplin Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease Rural STEMI Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Referring Center Bronze
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
ECU Health Medical Center
- Get With the Guidelines – Resuscitation Gold Neonate/Infant
- Get With the Guidelines – Resuscitation Gold Pediatric
- Get With the Guidelines – Resuscitation Bronze Newly Born
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus, Target: Stroke Advanced Therapy and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Receiving Center Gold with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease NSTEMI Gold with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
ECU Health North Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus with Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Rural Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
ECU Health Roanoke-Chowan Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Coronary Artery Disease Rural STEMI Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
Outer Banks Health Hospital
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Silver
- Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Rural Bronze
“Providing high-quality care close to home is essential, especially in regions like eastern North Carolina, where rates of stroke, diabetes and heart disease are significantly higher,” said Dr. Niti Armistead, chief quality officer at ECU Health. “Having access to specialized treatment and adhering to evidence-based guidelines locally ensures that patients receive the best possible care without the added stress of traveling long distances, which can make a critical difference in recovery and overall health outcomes. Get With the Guidelines programs align with our mission of improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina by putting proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis. Patients across our region can take heart knowing that all our hospitals are available to provide them with exceptional care.”
According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, cardiovascular disease and stroke are the leading and fifth leading causes of death in the United States, respectively. On average, someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, with nearly 795,000 new or recurrent strokes occurring annually. Stroke claims approximately 140,000 lives each year, accounting for one out of every twenty deaths. The stroke death rate is even higher in eastern North Carolina, underscoring the critical need for preventive measures and rapid treatment. The state also faces a higher prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Research indicates that patients experience better recovery outcomes when health care providers consistently adhere to treatment guidelines and programs like Get With the Guidelines.
“These awards show ECU Health’s commitment to caring for those in their community who need cardiovascular care,” said Donald Lloyd-Jones, chair of the American Heart Association Quality Oversight Committee and chair of the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern Medicine. “By following the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols, ECU Health can help realize our shared vision of improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.”
Windsor, N.C. – Wallace Nelson, RPh, has been awarded the Bowl of Hygeia Award given by the North Carolina Association of Pharmacists (NCAP). Established in 1958, the Bowl of Hygeia Award is sponsored by the American Pharmacists Association Foundation and the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations. The award recognizes one pharmacist from each state annually for their exceptional record of community leadership. NCAP Executive Director Penny Shelton praised Wallace, noting that he has “walked the talk his entire career finding ways to serve and give back at extraordinarily high levels.”
Nelson has been employed by ECU Health Bertie Hospital and ECU Health Chowan Hospital for over 40 years, with 37 years in management. His professional career started in retail pharmacy before joining ECU Health where he continues to serve both hospital locations.
“I am very humbled to have been selected to receive the Bowl of Hygeia from NCAP and NASPA. I view giving back to our community and state as opportunities to serve others and strive to make things better for all, something that I treasure being a part of,” Nelson said.
ECU Health Pharmacy manager, Shelli Simmons, PharmD, stated, “ECU Health Bertie and Chowan Hospitals are thankful for Wallace’s dedication to our healthcare system. He is very deserving of this prestigious award, and it recognizes his commitment not only to our patients, but also our communities. I am very honored to work alongside with Wallace.”
A Perquimans County native and graduate of the College of the Albemarle and The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. On a local level, Nelson served on the Perquimans County Board of Education for four terms and then the voters of Perquimans County elected him to serve as a County Commissioner, a position he holds today. He is also actively involved in the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners where he will be installed as President Elect in August 2024 and President in 2025. Past appointments by a number of North Carolina Governors include the College of Albemarle Board of Trustees, North Carolina Marine Industrial Authority, several Governor’s Councils, Institutes and Legislative Study Commissions. Fifteen years ago, the pharmacists of North Carolina elected him to serve on the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, a position he holds today.
Previously, Nelson received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Governor Beverly Perdue, which is North Carolina’s highest honor for those who have made significant contributions to their state and local communities. During his service on the Board of Education he received the Raleigh Dingman Award, the highest honor given to a school board member, presented annually by the North Carolina School Boards Association.
Greenville, NC — Andy Zukowski, ECU Health chief financial officer, was recently honored by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of 36 Rural Hospital CFOs to Know. Zukowski has served as CFO since 2022 and oversees the financial operations at both ECU Health and the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University.
Andy Zukowski, ECU Health chief financial officer
“It’s an honor to be nationally recognized for the work we do here at ECU Health,” said Zukowski. “Our goal at ECU Health is to build the national model for high-quality rural academic health care and being good stewards with our resources is a key component of that. I am proud to work alongside mission-driven individuals who commit their time, expertise and energy to serving the people of rural eastern North Carolina.”
Rural hospitals are an essential component of today’s health care environment, dedicated to serving populations that often encounter obstacles to convenient, quality and affordable care. These institutions play a critical role in ensuring healthcare access for underserved communities. The CFOs highlighted on the list are instrumental in ensuring the financial health of their organizations. Applying their expertise in financial planning, these executives help bring cost effective, innovative, up-to-date and accessible healthcare to their communities.
“Andy’s passion for serving others and mission-focused mindset align with ECU Health’s mission to improve the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina,” said Dr. Michael Waldrum, CEO of ECU Health and Dean of the Brody School of Medicine. “As the largest health care provider, employer and medical educator in the region, ECU Health has a unique role to play in the communities we serve – and Andy recognizes that this depends on the organization’s sustainability. ECU Health is proud to help lead the way in creating jobs and encouraging economic growth to help improve the rural communities we serve, many of which experience socioeconomic distress and health disparities.”
Becker’s is delighted to feature these accomplished leaders, who are critical to the successes of their respective organizations. The Becker’s Hospital Review editorial team accepted nominations for this list and curated it to highlight the fantastic accomplishments of rural hospital CFOs.
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health Medical Center Electrophysiology Lab is the first hospital lab in North Carolina to earn accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in Cardiac Electrophysiology in the areas of Testing and Ablation, Device Implantation and Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion. IAC accreditation is a “seal of approval” that patients can rely on as an indicator of consistent quality care and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Accreditation by the IAC means that ECU Health Medical Center Electrophysiology Lab has undergone an intensive application and review process and is found to be in compliance with published standards, thus demonstrating a commitment to quality patient care. Comprised of a detailed self-evaluation followed by a thorough review by a panel of medical experts, the IAC accreditation process enables both the operational and technical components of the facility to be assessed, including representative case studies and their corresponding final reports.
“ECU Health is dedicated to setting a national standard for rural health care and high-quality cardiovascular care,” said Jay Briley, president, ECU Health Medical Center. “Achieving IAC accreditation for the ECU Health Medical Center Electrophysiology Lab not only underscores our commitment to excellence but also highlights the unique advantage of offering advanced care in a rural setting. This milestone reaffirms our mission to enhance the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina by providing the latest technology and medical services close to home.”
Each year, more than one million cardiac device and ablation procedures are performed for the treatment of heart rhythm disorders worldwide. Cardiac electrophysiology procedures are performed by facilities that specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders to relieve symptoms or regulate heart rate and rhythm. Cardiac electrophysiology is comprised of specialized diagnostic testing and therapeutic procedures performed by highly skilled health care professionals. The training and experience of the cardiac electrophysiology specialist performing the procedure, the type of equipment used and the quality assessment metrics each facility is required to measure, all contribute to a positive patient outcome.
“As a cardiologist and electrophysiologist, I know first-hand the importance of having high-quality cardiovascular services close to home for those who live in eastern North Carolina,” said Dr. John Catanzaro, professor and chief, Division of Cardiology, the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, director of East Carolina Heart Institute, ECU Health Medical Center. “This new accreditation underscores our dedication to delivering exceptional patient care through adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety. Patients across eastern North Carolina can take heart knowing the ECU Health Medical Center Electrophysiology Lab has the highest-quality expertise and personnel available to care for them.”
Greenville, N.C. – The 2024 ECU Health Board Quality Leadership Award winners were recognized by the ECU Health Board of Directors June 25, 2024. These winning teams are a representation of excellent work across the system that drives the quality goal of zero harm, creates exceptional experiences and improves patient outcomes. Numerous nominations were reviewed by the committee, and the winning team are as follows:
ECU Health Medical Center – Cutting CAUTIs in the Neurosciences ICU: A Collaborative Approach. The project leaders were: Natasha Drake, BSN, RN, CCRN – NSICU Nurse Manager, Vikram Bhinder, MD – NSICU Medical Director and Aimee Dunn, BSN, RN, CCRN, SCRN – NSICU Staff Nurse IV. The team members were: Sarah James, BSN, RN, CCRN – NSICU Assistant Nurse Manager, Morgan McGraw, BSN, RN – NSICU CAUTI Representative and Erin Pearson, BSN, RN – ECU Health Medical Center Office of Quality.
ECU Health Chowan Hospital – Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infection (CAUTI) Prevention in the Inpatient Setting. The project leaders were: Courtnay Hale, BSN, RN – Manager of ICU/MedSurge, Dana Byrum, DNP – Vice President, Patient Care Services and Matthew Rapp, MD – Hospitalist Director and Beverly Venters, MSN – Quality Director. The team members were: Brittany Proctor, BSN, RN, Pam Ward, ICP, Katie Hall, QNSIII.
ECU Health Ambulatory – ECU Health Bertie – Family Medicine, Windsor – Improving Diabetes Management in the Ambulatory Setting. The project leaders were: Kristin Woodard, MSN, RN – Education Nurse Specialist, Phillip Harris, MD and Kelsey Gurganus, MSN, RN – Manager of Family Medicine, Windsor. The team members were: Erica Ford, PA, Teddie Gore, NP, Jesse Ann Hamilton, NP and all staff of Family Medicine, Windsor.
To receive this honor, team members submitted projects that demonstrated at least two of the following requirements:
- Quantifiable improvement in an organizational quality priority with sustained excellence over time
- Demonstration of empathy and compassion in patient care
- Implementation of innovative solutions to patient care problems
- Community outreach that addresses the social determinants of health in a meaningful way
“We are proud of our teams who dedicate themselves to improving patient care in eastern North Carolina,” said Robert Greczyn, chair, ECU Health Board of Directors. “The Board Quality Leadership Awards symbolize the excellence and compassion our team members demonstrate every single day as they care for our patients across our region. On behalf of the Board, we are grateful to all ECU Health team members for their tireless efforts in delivering excellence in rural care and helping us meet our mission to improve the health and well-being of the region.”
Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health Medical Center has once again earned Magnet® recognition, which is awarded every four years and represents the highest national honor for professional nursing practice, marking its third consecutive successful accreditation for exemplary nursing practice. The American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® distinguishes health care organizations that meet rigorous standards for nursing excellence.
“Earning Magnet recognition is a tremendous honor and reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality of care to eastern North Carolina,” said Trish Baise, chief nursing executive, ECU Health. “Our repeated achievement of Magnet recognition is an incredible source of pride for our nurses and drives our entire nursing program to strive harder each day to meet the health care needs of the people we serve This prestigious designation is a testament to the dedication, professionalism and compassion of our outstanding nursing team in collaboration with our interprofessional partners across the health system.”
Research demonstrates that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to health care organizations and their communities, such as:
- Higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information.
- Lower risk of 30-day mortality and lower failure to rescue rates.
- Higher job satisfaction among nurses.
- Lower nurse reports of intentions to leave their positions.
Magnet recognition is the gold standard for nursing excellence. To achieve initial Magnet recognition, organizations must pass a rigorous and lengthy process that demands widespread participation from leadership and staff. This process includes an electronic application, written patient care documentation, an on-site visit and a review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.
Health care organizations must reapply for Magnet recognition every four years based on adherence to Magnet concepts and demonstrated improvements in patient care and quality. An organization reapplying for Magnet recognition must provide documented evidence to demonstrate how staff members sustained and improved Magnet concepts, performance and quality over the four-year period since the organization received its most recent recognition.
“ECU Health nurses carry forth a legacy of excellence, which was first recognized by the Magnet® Recognition Program in 2013,” said Brian Floyd, chief operating officer, ECU Health. “Since then, our nurses have continually raised the bar for patient care and inspire every member of our team to strive for excellence every day. This year’s Magnet recognition affirms our commitment to meeting our mission of improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina. We could not be more proud of the excellent nursing teams in collaboration with our interprofessional partners that made this recognition possible for the third time.”