Saint Mary’s Announces First DAISY Award Honorees of the Year

Saint Mary’s is proud to announce its first DAISY Award recipients of the year, recognizing exceptional nurses whose compassion, dedication and professionalism make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families and colleagues. 

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of a national recognition program that honors the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. This quarter, Saint Mary’s recognizes three nurses for their outstanding contributions: Brenda Randles, Jeri McCormick and Star Austin. 

Brenda Randles, RN, was recognized with the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award for her 34 years of service. In her nomination, she was described as “a natural mentor and leader whose steady presence brings reassurance to both staff and patients.” Known for her compassion and faith-driven approach to care, Brenda often takes time to pray with patients and families before surgery, offering comfort during vulnerable moments. “Her impact is not only measured in years of service, but in the countless lives she has touched through her kindness, leadership and unwavering dedication,” the nomination shared. 

Jeri McCormick, RN, was recognized with the DAISY Nurse Leader Award for her role in advancing electronic health record capabilities and supporting staff across the organization. In her nomination, Jeri was described as someone who “models professionalism, collaboration and respect in every interaction,” while also advocating for workflows that support both patient care and nursing staff. 

Star Austin, RN, was recognized with the DAISY Honoree Award after being nominated by a patient’s family member for the extraordinary compassion she provided during a difficult hospital stay. “From the moment we met her, it was clear that nursing is not just a job to her, it’s a calling,” the nomination read. “She treated my mother as if she were her own family, and her presence made an incredibly difficult time easier. We will never forget the impact she made.” 

In addition to the honorees, Saint Mary’s would like to recognize the following nominees for the DAISY Award: 

Tina Smith, Amanda Ricketts and Claire Brock of Saint Mary’s Women’s and Children’s Unit, Madison Rust of the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit and Madelyn Carter and Ryan Cabutad of the Medical Surgical Unit. 

Saint Mary’s is proud to celebrate these nurses whose dedication and compassion reflect the mission of making communities healthier®.