Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System (FMOLHS) announced the first recipients of its new System Leadership Awards. These awards honor individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the health system and the community it serves, exemplifying excellence in leadership and a commitment to its mission. These awards were presented during its first in-person Leadership Assembly, where leaders embraced the instrumental leadership theme by wearing their favorite band t-shirts.
“We are incredibly proud of the outstanding leaders recognized this year,” said E.J. Kuiper, president and CEO of FMOLHS. “Their unwavering dedication, innovation and compassion have not only made a profound impact on their teams and communities but have also set a remarkable standard for what it means to live our mission. Their contributions exemplify the values we hold dear, and they inspire us all to continue striving for excellence in our service to others.”
Emerging Leader Award
Jason Duncan, director of ERP & IS Business Information Services at FMOLHS, is this year’s recipient of the Emerging Leader Award. This award honors a new leader who has made a noticeable impact through the completion of at least one major project or initiative.
Jason Duncan was recognized for his instrumental role in converting Crystal reports in EPIC and for embracing emerging healthcare IT innovation to better serve the needs of patients and team members.
Impact Leader Award
Bently Senegal, director of Mission Integration & Formation at Our Lady of Lourdes Health, received the Impact Leader Award, recognizing leaders who have made significant and measurable contributions to their communities through the successful implementation of key initiatives.
Bently Senegal was recognized for his work on expanding access to healthcare through the St. Bernadette Clinic, Northside High Clinic, and congregational health initiatives in Acadiana, which had a profound impact on reaching a greater number of uninsured, underinsured, homeless and high school youth.
Sustainer Leader Award
LeaAnn Teague, senior director of performance improvement at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Health, was honored with the Sustainer Leader Award. This award recognizes a leader who has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to the ministry by embodying mentorship, stewardship, and the Mission and Values of FMOLHS.
LeaAnn has demonstrated exceptional service by leading the implementation of the Johns Hopkins Activity and Mobility Promotion (AMP) Program at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, which now serves as a research study site for the AMP.
St. Clare Mission Legacy Award
Phyllis Simmons, BSN, RN, senior director of regulatory at Our Lady of the Lake Health, was honored with the St. Clare Mission Legacy Award. As the highest honor, this award is given to a leader who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ and exceptional leadership throughout their career.
With over 50 years of service, Phyllis has built a legacy distinguished by excellence and vision. Starting her career in 1969 as a medical/surgical nurse, she has been instrumental in the growth and development of numerous departments and clinical locations, including LSU Health, St. Elizabeth Hospital, and Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Her work has spanned areas such as HIV research, infection prevention, occupational medicine, and wound care. Notably, she led the first community collaborative HIV research endeavor with Tulane Medical Center.