Lexington, KY – Compassion, strength, and dedication are just a few of the many positive qualities represented at Appalachian Regional Healthcare’s second annual Nursing Awards Luncheon, May 6 at the Ramada Inn in Paintsville, Kentucky. 

The annual luncheon is part of ARH’s recognition of Nurses’ Week, which honors the important role nurses play in improving healthcare. The awards recognize nurses who show exceptional dedication and go the extra mile in patient care and leadership.

“Nursing is more than a profession. It is a calling that is rooted in compassion and service,” said Paula Vaughan, ARH Division Chief Nursing Officer. “Every day, our nurses are there for our patients during some of the most difficult times in their lives. They provide care, comfort, and so much more, and this event gives us a chance to celebrate our nurses and the tremendous impact they have on our communities.”

The awards celebrate nurses in a range of categories, representing their various roles across different hospitals throughout the communities. Presenters shared touching stories that highlighted the personal connections nurses build with patients and their families 

“Our nurses care for our families, friends, and neighbors. They are true reflections of the spirit of Appalachia. Hardworking, compassionate, and deeply committed to helping others,” comments Beth Forman, ARH Division Chief Nursing Officer.

The role and value of nurses are immeasurable. They are the foundation of healthcare, providing clinical care, comfort, and hope. Whether at hospital bedsides, in clinics, or in patients’ homes, nurses form deep connections with patients and families during their most vulnerable moments. 

The 2026 Nursing Excellence Awards winners are:

Larry Jeffers, Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center, Ambulatory Care

Allison Conley, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Behavioral Health

Leslie Taylor, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Care Coordination (CM/UR)

Dolores Luke, Morgan County ARH Hospital, Clinical Quality & Safety 

Amanda Carmical, Harlan ARH Hospital, Critical Care

Marlene Maynard, Paintsville ARH Hospital, Emergency

Chloe Johnson, McDowell ARH Hospital, Emerging Nurse Leader

Susie Prater, Hazard ARH Home Health Agency, Home Health

Katie Hammonds, Paintsville ARH Hospital, Infusion/Oncology

Christopher Leake, Middlesboro ARH Hospital, Interventional Radiology/Cath Lab

Carolyn Popp, Mary Breckinridge ARH Hospital, Licensed Practical Nurse

Eden Adams, Whitesburg ARH Hospital, Med-Surg

Thelma Pace, Harlan ARH Hospital, Nurse Director

Natasha Lafferty, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Nurse Educator

Crystal McGaffee, Paintsville ARH Hospital, Nurse Executive

Kathy Frasure, McDowell ARH Hospital, Nurse Legend 

Carla Whitaker, Hazard Regional Medical Center, OB/L&D/NBN

Rebecca Wilder, Barbourville ARH Hospital, Operative/Surgical Services

Crystal Coots, Mary Breckinridge ARH Hospital, Patient Care Support – Ambulatory

Melanie Jackson, Barbourville ARH Hospital, Patient Care Support – Hospital

Kelli Bledsoe, Harlan ARH Hospital, Preceptor/Mentor 

Kylie Nelson, Beckley Regional Medical Center, Rising Star

Highlands Regional Medical Center ICU, Team Excellence