Southern Tennessee Regional Health System (STRHS) Pulaski is proud to recognize five outstanding team members as recipients of the 2025 Core Value Awards. These awards honor individuals who consistently demonstrate STRHS’s Core Values: Champion Patient Care, Do the Right Thing, Embrace Individuality, Act with Kindness, and Make a Difference Together.

Each recipient exemplifies what it means to serve with compassion, integrity, and teamwork, making a lasting impact on patients, coworkers, and the organization as a whole.

Champion Patient Care Award – Dallas Durham, Outpatient Surgery Scheduler
Dallas Durham demonstrates an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. As an Outpatient Surgery Scheduler, she speaks with every surgery and outpatient patient, ensuring they fully understand what to expect—no matter how many times it takes. Dallas is known for her compassion, clear communication, and genuine gratitude, often thanking patients for “choosing us for their care.” She even sets reminders to ensure patients and families receive daily updates. Her dedication and professionalism make her an exceptional representative of STRHS and a true champion for patients.

Do the Right Thing Award – Tim Wroda, Lead Security Officer
Tim Wroda exemplifies integrity in action. As Lead Security Officer, he is quick to assist patients, hold his team accountable, and support nursing staff across the hospital. Tim takes pride in doing things the right way—not because he has to, but because it is the right way to serve others. Known for his ethical judgment and willingness to help without hesitation, Tim sets a steady example for those around him and is a trusted voice when difficult decisions arise.

Embrace Individuality Award – Emily Zornes, LPN, Medical Detox
Emily Zornes brings positivity, inclusion, and compassion to every interaction. As an LPN in Medical Detox, she ensures patients and coworkers feel seen, valued, and supported. Her uplifting presence makes orientation meaningful for new team members, and her collaborative spirit reaches far beyond her unit. Often referred to as “our cheerleader,” Emily unites teams, encourages others, and fosters a welcoming environment where patients feel safe, respected, and cared for. Her leadership by example weaves teamwork and individuality into the culture of STRHS.

Act with Kindness Award – Lexi McGill, RN, Emergency Department
Lexi McGill embodies kindness in its purest form. As a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department, she leads with empathy, patience, and compassion, even in the most challenging situations. Lexi consistently advocates for her patients, preserving dignity and ensuring every voice is heard. Whether calming a distressed patient, comforting the elderly, or caring for those in the most difficult circumstances, her calm presence and heartfelt care transform moments of crisis into moments of trust and connection.

Make a Difference Together Award – Meredith McMinn, Director of People Services
Meredith McMinn’s teamwork, dedication, and steady leadership have made a profound impact across the entire organization. As Director of People Services, she carries one of the hospital’s most challenging roles and approaches each day with strength, clarity, and determination. Meredith is a reliable problem-solver during times of change, ensuring teams have the information and support they need to succeed. Her consistency, resilience, and collaborative leadership embody what it truly means to think “we” before “me.”

Southern Tennessee Regional Health System congratulates Dallas Durham, Tim Wroda, Emily Zornes, Lexi McGill, and Meredith McMinn on this well-deserved recognition. Their commitment to STRHS’s Core Values continues to inspire excellence and reinforces our mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care to the communities we serve.