San Juan Regional Health

From left: Leah Neergaard, Diana Cross, Suzanne Smith, Bryan Ender and Jessica Scott

San Juan Regional Medical Center congratulates our 2025 Suzanne Smith Nursing Excellence Award honorees. The awards recognize nurses in four separate categories: Early Career, Excellence in Nursing, Emerging Nurse Leader, and Nurse Leader. They are named in honor of former Chief Nursing Officer Suzanne Smith in recognition of her many contributions over her 38-year nursing career at San Juan Regional Medical Center.

                This year’s honorees are:

Early Career- Leah Neergaard

Leah is a graduate nurse on the Childbirth Unit who exemplifies outstanding leadership and delivery of patient care. She truly goes above and beyond to ensure that expectant mothers receive the care they need. She works hard to follow each family’s individual birth plan and offers support and education on the medical necessity of any needed changes. Leah is a positive role model and team player, providing support to her colleagues and seeking opportunities for growth and personal improvement.

“We have watched her grow from a nursing school student, to working as a nurse technician, to finishing school with her BSN and orienting on labor and delivery in record time,” said Savanah Jefferson, Childbirth Center Patient Care Clinical Coordinator. “Leah is kind, considerate and compassionate. She always strives to brighten people’s day and put a smile on their face.”

Excellence in Nursing- Jessica Scott

Jessica is a Vascular Access Specialist and member of the Professional Resource Team who possesses extensive experience, compassion and a strong commitment to patient care. She enhances the care she provides for both pediatric and adult patients by utilizing tailored, evidence-based care with clear communication, alleviating anxiety and helping patients feel informed and at ease. Jessica also mentors new staff and nursing students, guiding them through the skills they need to successfully perform patient procedures.

“Jessica exemplifies the ideal nurse at SJRMC,” said Vascular Access Coordinator Maranda Marquez. “She has an exceptional ability to foster team cohesiveness. Her enthusiasm is contagious, enhancing team morale and patient care.” 

Emerging Nurse Leader- Bryan Ender

Bryan is an ICU nurse with strong dedication to patient care, leadership and continuous improvement. He was one of the very first Unit Champions in the hospital; using his initiative, adaptability and ability to lead by example to help shape the success of this role. Bryan’s impact extends beyond the quality care he provides daily to his patients. He has spearheaded multiple initiatives that have significantly improved staff efficiency and satisfaction, as well as ensuring safer and more standardized patient care.

“Bryan embodies what it means to be an emerging leader in nursing- he is proactive, innovative and deeply committed to making a lasting impact,” said Bryan’s coworker Adrian Cordova. “He is, without a doubt, one of the most exceptional nurses I have ever had the privilege of working with.”

Nurse Leader- Diana Cross

Diana is the manager of the Surgical and Observation Units. Her proactive approach as a leader not only enhances the quality of care provided to our patients but also nurtures a healthy and dynamic working environment that empowers the nursing staff. She actively supports and mentors her staff, ensuring that each team member feels valued and equipped to deliver outstanding care. Diana also helps recruit new nurses, actively engaging with students during their clinical rotations, warmly welcoming them to the unit and encouraging them as they embark on their nursing journey.

“Diana consistently demonstrates a high level of dedication to her profession. Her unwavering commitment to excellence makes her an asset to our organization,” said Director of Inpatient Acute Care Services Vickie Bessey.

Congratulations to our 2025 recipients of the Suzanne Smith Nursing Excellence Awards. Each of you has made a lasting impact on your peers, patients, their families and our exceptional community. Thank you for creating life better here for our community in their time of need.