Reid’s 2025 Nursing Excellence Award winners recognized for high level of care

May 8, 2025 -- Reid Health is honoring 10 of its nurses for the 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards and the Character in Nursing Award as part of National Nurses Week recognition.

The group has more than 105 years of nursing experience total and represents a variety of departments across the health system, with each person chosen for the high level of care they provide to our communities, patients, and their families.

"These outstanding nurses exemplify compassion, commitment, and a true calling to care," said Misti Foust-Cofield, Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer. "They reflect Reid's core values — excellence, empathy, integrity, and accountability — and inspire us all through their dedication to our patients and communities."

Briena Bedel, RN, Reid Health - Connersville Emergency Services
Faith, love, and a desire to help others drive Briena Bedel to be the best nurse she can be as she cares for residents in her Connersville hometown.

Her sense of purpose is built on a foundation of faith and love. Faith provides strength if she's having a hard day, but it also brings her great joy, she said.

"I'm reminded my purpose is bigger than just me and I have the ability to impact others in a really powerful way," Bedel said. "I also have a genuine love for caring for our patients."

She provides comfort by building relationships with her patients.

"I find joy in getting to know the patient so I can understand their needs and ensure they're met," Bedel said.

Her interest in nursing started when she was a teenager.

"I had the privilege of witnessing my Aunt Ty-Lissa's passion and pride in nursing," Bedel said. "She lost her battle with cancer at 34, leaving a void in the hearts of all who knew her."

Bedel gained experience working as a Student Nurse Technician and a Clerk at the former Fayette Regional Health System, roles that taught her the flow of the emergency department and to become more confident with hands-on skills and patient care.

Not long after, Bedel knew in her heart an emergency nurse was exactly what she wanted to do, she said. She earned her nursing degree from Ivy Tech Community College and has been a registered nurse for nearly three years.

"Every single shift, I strive to make a difference and carry on my aunt's legacy to be the absolute best nurse I can be for my patients," she said.

Bedel joined Reid's Emergency Department in 2019 after Reid acquired many of the assets of the former Fayette Regional hospital, where she had been part of the ER team. She appreciates the opportunity and the benefit Reid brought to the community with quality healthcare close to home.

Bedel said she loves working at Reid because of the strong sense of teamwork.

"Every staff member I interact with is kind and goes the extra mile for our patients and for each other," Bedel said.

For those thinking about a career in nursing, Bedel offers encouragement to continue learning in an evolving field.

"If you're passionate about bettering the lives of others and want a career with opportunities for personal and professional growth, nursing is a great choice," Bedel said.

"As a nurse, you often care for patients during some of their most challenging or traumatic moments," she said. "The compassion you show is something they'll never forget."

Her most meaningful accomplishment isn't one specific event but reflects in the lasting impact she has on those she cares for. Her goal is to provide patients with comfort in difficult moments and to be a reassuring presence when they're scared, Bedel said. Knowing patients will leave with that feeling, makes her proud to know she can make a difference.

Bedel credits her husband, Matt, for being her greatest support. The couple has four children, ages 2-20, Hunter, Graham, Spencer, and Alayna.

"I'm blessed with a family who shows me grace and cheers me on, always," she said.

Amber Blevins, RN, Cardiac Cath Lab
Amber Blevins is led by her heart to care for others.

"There's nothing more gratifying than using my skills, compassion, and experience to help heal patients, ease their anxiety, and be a positive, supportive presence during some of their most vulnerable moments," Blevins said.

As a nurse, the Hagerstown native is grounded in empathy and dedication. Blevins treats every patient as if they were a member of her own family. She's inspired daily by the camaraderie and collaboration of her team and their shared commitment to creating the best outcomes for patients.

Blevins joined Reid as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) on the Acute Rehab Unit in 2000.

After earning her associate degree in nursing a year later from Ivy Tech, she transitioned to Endoscopy where she spent six years refining her clinical expertise. In 2007, she completed her bachelor's degree in nursing from Indiana University East.

At the time, she was leading the team to plan and launch Reid's new Patient Care Center (Infusion Therapy Center) during the opening of the new hospital.

Blevin's leadership career began as the Unit Director of the Patient Care Center, a role she held for nine years before advancing to Director of the Wound Healing Center.

In 2016, she returned to her first love in direct patient care and joined the Cardiac Cath Lab and Electrophysiology Lab as the Team Lead.

"Nursing is hard, there's no other way to say it. But it's also deeply rewarding," Blevins said.

For Blevins, nursing goes beyond physical care to form meaningful connections, offering comfort and earning the trust of patients and families who are placing their faith in the care team.

"That trust is an incredible responsibility — and privilege — and I don't take it lightly," Blevins said.

Among her proudest accomplishments while serving the residents across Reid's service region for the past 25 years is earning her master's degree with the University of Phoenix in 2024. She encourages continuous learning, especially for anyone interested in a nursing career.

"If you're considering nursing as a career, never stop learning. Always remain humble and let your heart lead you," Blevins said. "Be willing to share your knowledge and wisdom with nurses who are just starting out. You owe all of this to your patients."

"It isn't just my job, it's family," Blevins said.

Ashley Brown, RN, Clinical Education Specialist, Nursing Excellence Resilience & Development, Character in Nursing Award

Ashley Brown, RN, Clinical Education Specialist with Nursing Excellence Resilience & Development (NERD), is the recipient of the Character in Nursing Award.

The distinction posthumously honors Reid RN Lance Pence (who died on April 9, 2024) in recognition of his profound impact on character-driven leadership in healthcare. His exemplary actions and unwavering commitment to compassionate care continue to inspire others to uphold the highest standards of nursing excellence, leaving a legacy of kindness, integrity, and humanity.

For Brown, the recognition is a heartfelt tribute to a mentor and friend.

"The Character of Nursing award is, without a doubt, the most meaningful accomplishment of my nursing career," Brown said.

"His wife, Tara, was my preceptor when I joined Reid. I quickly formed a friendship with her and admired how great of a nurse she is. Through Tara, I met Lance. I had such deep respect for Lance, both as a nurse and as a person. His skill, compassion, and cool, collected demeanor made him a role model for so many of us."

Nursing is a second career for Brown. When she felt unfulfilled in her previous profession, she sought a path that was more meaningful and impactful.

Her life changed when her father suffered a serious heart attack during an Easter Sunday service.

"That day was a whirlwind of raw emotion and fear for my family," Brown said. "We didn't fully understand everything that was happening, which was really overwhelming."

What stood out to her was the exceptional care her father received from the nurses during a time of chaos. They were skilled, compassionate, and reassuring during one of the most stressful times of her life.

"I was in awe of how they were able to carry others during their darkest moments with grace and commitment," Brown said. "That experience never left me."

It was then she felt drawn to nursing so she could serve others in the way the nurses had done for her family.

In 2017, she completed her nursing degree at Marian University. Two years later, she returned to her Richmond hometown to be closer to her parents, both of whom had received care at Reid.

She was impressed by the nursing staff, in particular the Progress Care Unit (PCU), where she would eventually begin her career. She wanted to work at Reid because of its community presence, and she wanted to join a team that valued patient care and collaboration.

"I could tell by watching the nurses' interactions and how well they were working together I would find what I was looking for at Reid," Brown said.

Pence left a lasting impact. As a CCU charge nurse, he was known for his calm in crisis, his professionalism, and his humanity. He influenced Brown's career as well as her family, she said.

"A defining moment for me was when I found out my dad needed open heart surgery," she said. "Tara told Lance and he immediately said, 'Tell me when, so I can be his receiver.' He ended up being a charge nurse that day, but he and Tara both made sure my mom and I were OK the entire day of his surgery.

"Lance later was one of my dad's nurses on one of his more difficult nights. His patience and compassion with him meant everything to me and my mom. He did that for all his patients and for many of us here. He was just truly an all-around good person."

Since joining Reid, Brown has grown in practice as a bedside nurse, as a Clinical Practice Leader on PCU, and in her current role with the NERD team. She finds purpose in people, continued education, and development, mentoring new nurses while staying connected to patient care.

"My position with the NERD team has allowed me to marry my passions, giving me the unique opportunity to continue to connect with patients while helping onboard our new nurses. I love being able to help facilitate a new nurse's orientation process and watching them grow in comfort and confidence on the units."

Despite the challenges, Brown's motivation remains clear.

"What keeps me coming back every day is the people. I've met some really amazing people while working at Reid," Brown said.

"Knowing I work with people who have my back and support me keeps me coming back every day. Even on the bad days, my co-workers can help me find the positives and keep me laughing."

Above all, Brown sees her work as a chance to impact lives, often during their most vulnerable moments.

"We often meet our patients during some of the worst times in their lives. If I can make even one day feel just a little less overwhelming, it fills my heart. It truly touches me when a patient or family remembers me, because often I don't realize the impact I had on them."

Brown is beyond honored to receive the recognition.

"To be recognized for an award that bears Lance's name is something I'll never take lightly. I don't feel like I can ever put myself into the same category as Lance, whose character and sense of professionalism set such a high bar for myself and I think a lot of others."

Brown is supported in nursing by her fiancé, Steve, and to-be twin daughters in October when they're married, Madeline and Taylor, and three dogs, Lucky, Walter and Kora. The family currently lives in Centerville.

Lakeyah Carpenter, RN, Reid Neurology Associates
Compassion and personal connection are central to the care Lakeyah Carpenter provides as a registered nurse.

She strives to be a bright spot in her patients' day, finding it rewarding to help them feel seen, heard, and valued.

"Being a supportive person to talk to, have someone who listens, and someone who is empathetic. They might not have a person in their life like that, so it matters," Carpenter said.

Carpenter joined Reid Neurology Associates three years ago. A Richmond native, she was looking to expand her nursing knowledge and had heard nothing but good things from those who work here. Her co-workers and the work environment are what keep her here.

"I come to work and feel supported. I'm a part of a family when I'm away from my family at home. We all work well in making sure patients are taken care of and giving our patients a great experience when they come to our office."

An Ivy Tech Richmond graduate, Carpenter considered nursing as a profession after a significant moment in her own life.

"My OB nurse when I had my first child was so kind and supportive and truly impacted my whole experience. Her kindness, thoughtfulness, and positive energy made my whole experience special," Carpenter said.

Nursing has brought Carpenter professional fulfillment and personal flexibility.

"If you're interested in nursing, just start," Carpenter said. "Nursing can give you so many options for flexibility as far as schedule to fit the needs of your household. You have so much opportunity growth within this field."

It's an honor to be recognized alongside other impactful nurses making a difference every day, Carpenter said. She's proud to care for those in her community and grateful to be part of an organization that focuses on patient care and enhancing the patient experience.

For Carpenter, some of the most meaningful moments in nursing are seeing former patients or their family members. Often, they share how much they appreciated the care provided to them or their loved one, she said.

Carpenter is married to her high school sweetheart, John. They have three children: Mason, a senior in high school, and Kennedy and Kolden, 13-year-old twins.

Jake Isaacs, RN, Progressive Care Unit
Jake Isaacs always felt he was meant to serve others. After a life-changing decision he's enjoying nursing as an encore career and the opportunity to be of greater service to the community where he was born and raised.

"Your brain is like a muscle. You need to work it out to maintain and improve it. Many jobs are just following motions," Isaacs said.

"Nursing gives you the opportunity to help people and improve your mind. I find purpose not only in being of service to others but also in improving myself every day."

Isaacs was working a different job when he said he had an epiphany that he wanted to help people.

"I decided to find a way to do exactly that, and that job turned out to be nursing."

He joined Reid in 2019 as a Student Nurse Technician on 5 East before joining the Progressive Care Unit (PCU) on 4 East where he's worked the past four years. In 2021, he graduated from Ivy Tech with an associate degree in nursing.

Isaacs is living his purpose to be of service to others by working as an RN for Reid's PCU.

"It means I'm able to give back and help our community become better every day," Isaacs said. "Through mentally and physically maintaining and improving the health of the community, we can make this a better area for current and future generations."

The Connersville native said the community has given him many opportunities and Reid provides an opportunity to give back. In return, he receives a satisfactory feeling knowing he's genuinely made a difference in people's lives, he said.

He's also finding fulfillment serving as a preceptor, a mentor to provide support and instruction for student nurses and recent nursing graduates as they learn and train clinical skills.

"My proudest accomplishment has been that of a preceptor and seeing everyone I have been able to train and guide to be excellent nurses themselves," Isaacs said. "In this, I'm able to affect greater good than I would be able to do on my own," he said.

As one of this year's recipients, Isaacs views the recognition as a reflection of his passion for nursing and his belief that true excellence comes from going above and beyond, something only possible when you truly believe in and love what you do.

"There are many trials and tribulations in life; nursing is no different. Finding what truly drives you is what's important," Isaacs said. "If you would like a career in nursing, then get ready for a bumpy ride, but the feeling at the end of the day is second to none."

Isaacs is supported in his encore journey with his wife, supportive parents, and a rambunctious 15-month-old son.

Jazmin Livingston, RN, Reid Outpatient Surgery & Endoscopy (ROSE), Perioperative Clinic
Jazmin Livingston's passion for caring for others began early, but it was her father's illness that set her on the path to nursing.

"I knew from a young age I wanted to be a nurse and truly believe this is what I was destined to do," Livingston said. "There's something special and fulfilling about being able to help and care for others."

That early experience marked the beginning of her interest in healthcare and instilled in her a deep sense of purpose and compassion, qualities that would later define her career.

Born in Dallas, Texas, and raised in Indiana, Livingston now calls New Castle home, where she is raising her two children, Bryceton and Arianna. Her family is her motivation, and her passion for nursing is fueled by their support and the lessons she's carried through life.

In 2014, Livingston was working toward her LPN certification, when her mother became ill and passed away.

"This was one of the hardest things to cope with," Livingston said.

"I had almost lost hope I would pass that semester because mentally I wasn't there, but I went on and thankfully did pass. She was always one of my biggest supporters, and I knew she would want me to find the strength to finish my degree, and that's what I did."

Despite her grief, she persevered, driven by her mother's belief in her and the knowledge she was pursuing the path they both believed in. Earning her LPN became one of her proudest accomplishments.

She went on to earn her associate degree in nursing from Ivy Tech in 2017 and later her bachelor's degree from Western Governors University.

The warmth she felt during her interview and the alignment of values made Reid the right fit. Now in her seventh year, Livingston has found her stride at ROSE, after starting on 5 East, where she cared for oncology, hospice, and other patients.

"The teamwork and support in my department are amazing," she said.

"I'm blessed to work with, in my opinion, some of the best nurses and surgeons. I'm also fortunate to have one of the best managers I've ever had. Working for a department that values family, communicates well, and supports its employees is top tier. I couldn't imagine working anywhere else. This is the kind of environment nurses thrive in and why they stay."

She meets patients and their families with empathy during some of their most vulnerable moments. Whether she's easing pre-surgery nerves through education or simply offering a listening ear, she finds purpose in every encounter. Providing care during challenging times is deeply meaningful to her, and it's fulfilling to know she can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Livingston is honored to be recognized as an award recipient.

"I strive to give the best care I can and to go above and beyond for my patients," she said. "I feel like being a recipient of this award signifies I'm succeeding at being the nurse I strive to be and my co-workers believe this too."

To those considering a career in nursing, Livingston said it's a profession to be passionate about.

"It's not always easy, but it's one of the most fulfilling and rewarding careers you can choose. There are also so many different opportunities and areas one can work in until you find what works for you," Livingston said.

Her parents' influence continues in the care she provides for her patients.

Brianna Swartwout, RN, Acute Rehab Unit
Brianna Swartwout plays a vital role in her patients' progress toward independence. A Charge Nurse in the Acute Rehabilitation Unit (ARU), she witnesses life-changing moments as patients overcome obstacles and prepare for a new normal.

"The most rewarding part of being a nurse is being able to help my patients improve and resume a new normal quality of life," Swartwout said.

"I love being able to build relationships with my patients and provide them with encouragement and support throughout their stay."

Born on a military base in Würzburg, Germany, she was raised with a sense of service that paved its way into her adult life. Swartwout has always felt called to help others, especially after watching her older sister become a nurse and seeing the impact she had.

While working in a nursing home during high school, Swartwout was inspired to work with the adult population, developing a deep passion for caregiving and discovering her true calling to become a nurse.

Swartwout earned her nursing degree from IU East.

She joined Reid because she wanted to play a part in the difference the health system makes for the community. When she first joined Reid, she started out as a tray passer with the Food & Nutrition Services team. She's also worked as a Student Nurse Technician, a Nurse Care Assistant, and a Registered Nurse.

Now in her current position as Charge Nurse on ARU for more than two years, it's reaffirmed her passion for working with her unit and patients.

"I love being able to help our patients get better and reach their goals. It's very rewarding helping patients regain their independence," she said.

"The team I'm blessed to work with also makes the hard days easier and we get to see the progress our patients make. Being able to witness the product of everyone's teamwork and dedication is very rewarding."

She considers receiving this nursing award one of her proudest accomplishments.

"This award makes me feel like I've truly 'made it' as a nurse," she said. "I'm so grateful to my co-workers who've shaped me into the nurse I am today. To be recognized alongside so many accomplished nurses is an incredible honor."

Swartwout is honored to make a difference in the community and finds joy in the meaningful interactions she shares with patients. Nursing is a rewarding and challenging career.

"There's no other job where you can be there for someone in their most vulnerable state and have the opportunity to be the brightness of their day," she said.

Swartwout lives in Richmond with her husband, Mason.

Victoria Vance, RN, Charge Nurse, Critical Care Unit
Victoria Vance showed an interest in the medical field at a young age. She shares a memorable moment her mother, Brenda, recalls when she was in first grade. Vance told a teacher's aide she had a pacemaker and described the procedure, even though she'd never had one.

While Vance's interest was evident early on, it wasn't until she was 17 that her career path was clear. She was inspired by the nurses who cared for her grandmother after she had undergone spinal surgery. Watching them provide skilled and compassionate care, she was motivated to pursue nursing, a decision that solidified her lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

In 2017, she joined Reid as a Student Nurse Technician in the Critical Care Unit (CCU). A year later, she earned her nursing degree from IU East and continued with the unit.

Although she had no previous hospital experience, Vance felt an immediate connection with Reid from her first interview. The atmosphere felt like home, she said, recalling how she walked onto the CCU and was greeted by smiling, friendly faces.

"I knew in just the first few moments of being in the building, then on the unit, I wouldn't be going anywhere else," Vance said. "I've always felt welcomed, and I'm not sure I could find this culture anywhere else."

Now a Charge Nurse for the unit, she'll mark eight years at Reid this September. She considers the unit to be the best group of people to work with.

"They're the smartest, most selfless, compassionate people," she said. "These people I work alongside deserve all the recognition in the world, so receiving this award will give the community a glimpse of these heroes I get to call my co-workers. The unit has gone through some very challenging times together and it has done nothing but bring us closer."

Vance credits much of her growth and motivation to Lance Pence, whose belief in the team and commitment to excellence continue to inspire her.

"He always saw the best in the unit and wanted nothing but for us to succeed. He's a key driver to continue to strive for excellence," Vance said.

For Vance, the most rewarding part of nursing is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference during a patient's most difficult moments.

"Our patients come to us when they need us the most, usually on the worst day of their life," Vance said.

"To be there for them emotionally, physically, and mentally is what keeps me coming back each shift. Seeing a patient recover and move to a less acute floor or go home gives you a real sense of accomplishment."

Vance takes pride in serving the community and values the trust patients place in her and her team. Being recognized for nursing excellence, she says, is the proudest accomplishment of her career so far.

"To bring light to the amazing work our critical care team does day in and day out means the world to me. I hope to continue being an example of what nursing excellence looks like," she said.

Vance lives in Centerville, Indiana. She is supported in nursing by her family, including her significant other, Holden; their 5-year-old daughter, Willow; her parents, Brenda and Bruce Vance; and her brother, Cody Vance.

Ashlie Watson, LPN-RHPA, Reid Spine Surgeons
Ashlie Watson has always had a caretaker's heart, so it was only natural nursing became her calling. She balances her dedication to her career with the love and support of her family and a tight-knit circle of friends and team members.

Watson's exploration in nursing started in high school when she attended a healthcare camp at Reid. The experience left a lasting impression.

"I loved the vibe and atmosphere of Reid, and my values align with the care standards," she said.

She went on to earn her nursing degree from Ivy Tech and eventually found her way back to Reid, this time as part of the Reid Health Spine group where she's been a team member since July 2022.

Before joining Reid, Watson worked at Union County Medical Center in Liberty. Her role at Reid Spine Surgeons is especially meaningful to her.

"It's rewarding to see the patient come in from their first visit in debilitating pain to 12 weeks post operation with significant improvements in their quality of life," she said.

Before returning to the workforce, Watson spent four years as a full-time mom. That time at home brought her a deeper appreciation for her profession.

"After staying home with my boys, I came back to work in nursing with a renewed purpose, to treat my patients the way I'd want my own loved ones to be treated," Watson said. "Being an advocate for patients is so important."

Watson is also grateful for the culture at Reid.

"I feel like Reid promotes work-life balance and sees us as individuals, not just a number," she said. "And working close to home allows me to be present for my family while doing what I love."

When she learned she was one of this year's honorees, Watson was genuinely surprised.

"It makes me feel seen and appreciated for all the hard work I put in day in and day out," she said. "It really does mean a lot."

Maggie Westjohn, RN, Clinical Analyst, Clinical Informatics
Maggie Westjohn is improving lives by streamlining charting systems to ease the burden on nurses and enhance patient care.

A Clinical Informatics Nurse for the past nine months, she's working behind the scenes to make meaningful improvements.

Before stepping into informatics, the Richmond resident gained hands-on experience in geriatric psychiatry, adult psychiatry, and the float pool. These roles deepened her understanding of the challenges nurses face daily.

"It feels good knowing the changes I help make directly impact how nurses do their jobs," she said. "When the system works better, they can focus more on what really matters — the patients."

Westjohn was drawn to this career by several factors, including a lifelong calling to serve others. With her combined interests in healthcare and science, she never really considered a profession outside of the medical field, it was just a matter of which path. Nursing stood out, feeling like home, she said.

"The combination of hands-on care and the deep, direct connection with people in their most vulnerable moments resonated with me deeply," Westjohn said.

She thrives on the unpredictability of nursing and sees every shift as a chance to grow as she pushes herself beyond her comfort zone.

"Nursing is continuously changing and developing, which stimulates my inquisitive nature and challenges me to continue learning and improving. It's a career that not only allows me to support others but also challenges me to become the best version of myself," Westjohn said.

A graduate of IU East, Westjohn chose to start her career close to home at Reid.

"Family means everything to me, and Reid's values — excellence, empathy, integrity, and accountability — perfectly aligned with my own," she said. "I wanted to grow in a place where I felt supported, both professionally and personally."

Building meaningful relationships at work keeps her motivated.

"That sense of community is super important to me," she said. "Whether it's helping someone learn something new or contributing to the team's success, it's all part of what keeps me motivated and happy in what I do."

One of her proudest accomplishments has been improving documentation systems to make them faster and more intuitive.

"Each change made impacts hundreds of people," Westjohn said.

"Knowing I played a part in making someone's shift just a little easier is something I'm really proud of. It reminds me that even behind the scenes work can have a huge impact on patient care."

Westjohn's approach to informatics is deeply human. Though she's no longer a bedside nurse, she stays connected by rounding floors and engaging with staff and patients.

"It's the little things — a kind word, a listening ear, or a few minutes of extra attention — that can truly brighten someone's day," she said.

Grateful for the recognition she's received, Westjohn is quick to acknowledge others.

"I know I wouldn't be the nurse I am without the incredible mentors and co-workers at Reid," she said.

New nurses at Reid receive strong, ongoing support extending well beyond orientation, helping them grow both personally and professionally, Westjohn said. The organization also fosters a positive and motivating environment by recognizing staff contributions through programs like GEMs, Shining Stars, and the DAISY Award, which celebrate those who go above and beyond in their roles.

"The same reasons that brought me here are what keep me here," she said. "Reid has genuinely compassionate people who create a positive, supportive environment."

Working at Reid also allows her to give back to the community that raised her.

"There's a deeper sense of connection when you're caring for those who've been part of your everyday life," she said. "Now, I help staff work more efficiently, giving them more time with patients. In that way, I'm still giving back."

Westjohn is supported in nursing by her four siblings, parents, and friends.