Eugene Brown Named Norman Regional’s 2023 Healer of the Year

Eugene Brown, a dedicated and longtime healer, has been named Norman Regional Health System’s 2023 Healer of the Year.

Norman Regional’s Healer of the Year ceremony took place in the Norman Regional Education Center on Tuesday, July 25. The ceremony began with Norman Regional President and CEO, Richie Splitt, reiterating to those in attendance what it means to be a healer and why Norman Regional refers to all of their employees as healers.

“Titling our employees as healers separates us from other health systems. It calls on each of us to care for our patients and makes our patient-first approach meaningful and distinct,” said Splitt. “We are more than employees, we are called to serve the person inside each and every patient along with their loved ones and their families and I want to thank each of you for the difference that you make each and every day,”

Norman Regional Chaplain, Nick Napoli, echoed a similar message as he took the podium to deliver words of encouragement.

“A healer is not just an employee, it’s not someone who shows up for a paycheck, we are called to something a little different,” said Napoli. “What makes you a healer is not your skillset, it’s not your experience, it’s not how you do something well versus someone else. It’s that something inside you that keeps getting you up every morning to come towards the things that most people move away from.”

All Healer of the Month winners from FY23 from left to right and Norman Regional President and CEO, Richie Splitt on far right: Willa Pendley-Griffin, Jack Jewell, Rachel Nabors, Drew Hill, Cynthia Streun, Eugene Brown, Melissa Scarberry, Ted Sanderson, Jamie Iweriebor and Louis Porter (not pictured: Amber Parris and Amber Browning)

Norman Regional leadership then recognized all 12 healers who earned the Healer of the Month honor over the past year. They were able to share their stories and what they enjoy about working at Norman Regional. Included among the 12 recognized was Eugene Brown, who at the conclusion of the ceremony was named Norman Regional’s Healer of the Year for 2023.

Eugene Brown pictured with his wife and fellow healer, Debbie Brown, RN

Brown, an integral member of the Engineering team, was previously recognized as the Healer of the Month in April 2023, securing his nomination for the annual award alongside 11 other employees.

Brown has been devoted to his role at Norman Regional for over two decades, having started in the Distribution/Transportation department before transferring to Engineering. Before joining Norman Regional, Brown honed his skills at Parker Electric as an Apprentice Electrician.

Originally from Cavite City in the Philippines, Brown moved to Hawaii before settling in Oklahoma in 1995. After moving to Oklahoma, he attended Moore Norman Technology Center, graduating in electric trades.

Brown's responsibilities at Norman Regional are vital. He not only oversees key Engineering functions but also works hand-in-hand with other departments to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the health system. Brown also serves on the blood drive committee and has made it a priority to apply his skills beyond his role within Engineering.

Outside of work, Brown enjoys spending time with his family, especially attending the sporting events of his 10 grandchildren. A quiet man by nature, his favorite pastime is savoring the tranquility of a cabin in the woods with his wife and dog.

Eugene Brown receiving his Healer of the Year award from Norman Regional Chief Operating Officer, John Manfredo

After accepting his title as Healer of the Year, Brown was eager to extend his gratitude and thanks to his fellow healers, but kept it simple and to the point.

“I just want to say thank you again and that we need to be positive all the time,” said Brown.

What he cherishes most about working at NRHS, Brown shares, are the relationships he has developed. “The people here have become more than just colleagues, they're my friends,” he said.

Once again, congratulations to Eugene Brown on being named the Healer of the Year for 2023. Your dedication and service are greatly appreciated by the entire Norman Regional Health System community.