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Scott and Nikki Niswonger Servant’s Heart Award

The Servant's Heart Award is our most prestigious award created to honor team members, physicians and volunteers who model the philosophy of patient-centered care.

Recognizing the important part they play in our overall success, this award honors those who display the heart of a servant by going above and beyond the normal call of duty in helping others at work and in the community, as nominated by their peers.

The award was named in honor of Scott and Nikki Niswonger. Scott is a Greeneville businessman and philanthropist who is the chief benefactor of the Niswonger Children's Hospital in Johnson City, and a member of the Ballad Health board of directors. The Niswongers have a long history of serving others throughout the region, with a strong focus on education highlighted by the creation of The Niswonger Foundation. 

Ballad Health’s highest honor

2020 Servant’s Heart Award winners

2022 Servant’s Heart Award Winners

Dr. Steven Baumrucker portrait

Dr. Steven Baumrucker

Aliese Harrison portrait

Aliese Harrison

Rhonda Hickey portrait

Rhonda Hickey

Sharon Sheppard portrait

Sharon Sheppard

Phyllis Smith portrait

Phyllis Smith

Lisa Wilson portrait

Lisa Wilson

Robin Wilson portrait

Robin Wilson

2022 Volunteer Winners

Ronnie Alley portrait

Ronnie Alley

Susan Bowers portrait

Susan Bowers

Jo Anne Clark portrait

Jo Anne Clark

F.L. Villiard portrait

F.L. Villiard

2023 Servant’s Heart nominations

The Servant’s Heart nomination process is open to the public, so patients, family members and other members of the community can recognize someone at Ballad Health who has made a difference in their lives.

The nomination period for the 2023 awards lasts through Saturday, Dec. 31. Winners will be announced in 2023.

The award is given out to four categories of Ballad Health team members – physicians, leaders, volunteers and frontline/support team members. The submission form offers a place to describe what this particular caregiver did and why they deserve recognition.

2023 Servant’s Heart award nomination form

The winners will be recognized internally by Ballad Health, as well as being featured on Ballad Health social media and presented with a crystal trophy.