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
Aliese Harrison
Rhonda Hickey
Sharon Sheppard
Phyllis Smith
Lisa Wilson
Robin Wilson
2022 Volunteer Winners
Ronnie Alley
Susan Bowers
Jo Anne Clark
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.