Nurse of the Year

NORMAN— Norman Regional Health System honored eight nurses for their commitment to patients and the community in 2021.

Each year, a group of Norman Regional physicians along with the Norman Regional Health Foundation provide an award for the exceptional care that was provided over the past year by Norman Regional’s nursing staff.

Joel Pickard, RN, of the Emergency Department, was named Nurse of the Year. Pickard was praised for always helping his co-workers, his dedication to his patients and his passion for quality care.

His colleagues noted that Pickard, “has a special passion for not only doing his job well but making sure the emergency department is functioning on an excellent level.  He has gone above and beyond in expanding his skills to help care for patients - specifically mastering ultrasound IV placement, which greatly improves patient care.”

Two nurses were named as the runner-up for Nurse of the Year. They are Debbie Brown, RN, of Labor, Delivery and Recovery and Cassandra Gibson, RN, of Progressive Care.

Brown was praised for being an experienced nurse. “Debbie is a nurse who loves caring for both her patients and the people around her,” her nominator wrote.

Gibson was another nurse recognized for her willingness to help in all situations. “I feel she is a perfect example of a Norman Regional healer and exemplifies all the characteristics of a super nurse,” said her nominator.  

Other nominees were: Meghan Bedwell, RN, Maegan Dover, RN, Susan Erne, LPN, Mark Veal, RN, and Pam Wilbur, RN.

The finalists received a cash prize funded by physicians. To read about the physician awards for 2021, please click here.