Emelita Bennett

Emelita Bennett
RN, Apheresis Unit, Zale Lipshy University Hospital

Among colleagues, Ms. Bennett is known for her great teamwork and positive attitude. According to a recent PACT card, “She is a preceptor with exceptional knowledge and patience, and she is always ready to help without being asked.” Ms. Bennett earned a Gold PACT pin in 2016 and 2017. Through her involvement in multiple committees, she implemented the labeling of apheresis kits after installation to meet hospital standards and recommendations, and she saved the department approximately $700 per month by transitioning staff from Tego caps to standard blue caps for outpatient procedures. In 2017, Ms. Bennett was accepted to the Neuroscience Nursing Research Fellowship where she developed a study to explore cultural competency in the Apheresis Unit.

Franklin Lopez

Franklin Lopez, Logistics Supervisor, Logistics and Value Analysis

Considered a “go-to” employee by many, Mr. Lopez is admired by staff for his knowledge, friendly demeanor, and leadership. As one colleague explained: “When Franklin is working, employees know whatever they need will be taken care of. I have never once heard him say, ‘That’s not my department.’ He always finds a way to fix the issue.” Recently, the operating room had an emergency procedure added on and called Mr. Lopez on his day off for assistance. He immediately coordinated the logistics for the transfer and came in to ensure everything was in place for the patient. Mr. Lopez is currently attending the University of North Texas at Dallas where he is working toward a bachelor’s degree in logistics and supply chain management.

Mary Tanner

Mary Tanner, Physical Therapist, Outpatient PM&R, Zale Lipshy University Hospital

Mrs. Tanner’s years of experience and problem-solving abilities make her a strong leader and effective team player. Working with other physical therapists, she coordinates the outpatient rehabilitation program for lung transplant patients. She helped develop the program and remains actively involved in its implementation and assessment, always looking for areas of improvement. Board certified in orthopedic physical therapy, Mrs. Tanner is involved with teaching at UTSW’s School of Health Professions and serves as a clinical coordinator, communicating with other physical therapy schools and coordinating student clinical rotations in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Outpatient Therapy Services. The School of Health Professions Physical Therapy Program named her Educator of the Year in 2017 for her outstanding work. She has previously received two Gold PACT pins and two Meritorious Service Awards.

Jazmine Wells

Jazmine Wells, Clinical Staff Assistant II, Hematology/Oncology Infusion, Simmons Cancer Center

Ms. Wells began her career at UT Southwestern in 2016. As a frontline Clinic Staff Assistant (CSA), she sets the tone for the patient experience. According to a colleague, “If Jazmine is not at the front desk, patients ask where she is. She leaves a lasting impression with each patient she comes in contact with.” Ms. Wells also serves as Chairperson for the Simmons Cancer Center Unit Based Council — the first CSA ever nominated for the position. Ms. Wells received a Gold PACT pin and Meritorious Service Award for the 2017 year. She loves working at UTSW and plans to earn a second degree in order to become an oncology nurse.

Beverly Kemp

Beverly Kemp

Clinic Staff Supervisor, Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research

Ms. Kemp has spent over 14 of her 16 years at UTSW in the Pak Clinic, where she is responsible for scheduling, performing bone density scans, supervising three employees, and ensuring front and back office responsibilities run smoothly. Thanks to her longevity, she knows all of the nuances associated with the clinic, which makes her the ideal trainer and supervisor for almost any position. Colleagues say she cheerfully accepts new responsibilities and rises to the challenge when faced with problems. Known for her congenial attitude, Ms. Kemp consistently receives PACT cards from patients saying she made their experience the absolute best. In the words of her nominator: “Bev brings sunshine when she enters the room. … She is our clinic cheerleader and champion, and a favorite for many of our patients.”

Brianna Reed

Brianna Reed

Ambulatory RN, Multi-Specialty Clinic

Working in the Multi-Specialty Clinic for two years, Mrs. Reed is an integral part of the team and the “go-to” nurse for questions. A role model for current and future nurses, she is a preceptor for nursing students, participates in the nursing clinical ladder, and earned her ambulatory care nurse board certification. A recipient of the Patient Safety Advocate Award and numerous PACT cards, she builds therapeutic relationships with patients based on mutual trust and respect and is always looking for ways to improve the patient experience. Her nominator wrote: “She is a dedicated, compassionate, and experienced nurse who not only serves her peers, but goes above and beyond the call of duty for her patients.”