Rutland Regional Medical Center Honors Nurses with DAISY Award

RUTLAND, VT – On Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Rutland Regional Medical Center celebrated and honored four extraordinary nurses with the DAISY Award.

The awards ceremony, which took place in the hospital’s CVPS/Leahy Community Health Education Center, was attended by nursing staff, providers, and leaders. Family members of the awardees were also in attendance.

The DAISY Individual Award recognizes nurses for the extraordinary and compassionate care that they provide to patients in their practice environment. RRMC recognized two nurses with the DAISY Individual Award.

Ginger Vaughn, RN, SCU – Ginger was nominated by a patient who recognized Ginger as a true example of nursing excellence. “Ginger advocated for me in ways I didn’t even know I needed. They made sure my voice was heard, and they maintained my dignity and independence with every step. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed in a hospital setting, but Ginger never let me feel like 'just another patient.'” 

Tonah Clairmont, RN, Birthing Center – Tonah’s nomination highlighted her incredible, encouraging, and positive attitude while helping during the patient’s labor. “I felt so empowered with Tonah by my side. My birth was truly such a wonderful, positive experience.” 

The DAISY Nurse Leader Award was created to recognize those nurse leaders who promote an environment in which compassionate, quality care is delivered through not only their own work, but through the support and development of their team. RRMC recognized one DAISY Nurse Leader Award recipient:

Courtney Collins, BSN, RN, CEN, Emergency Department – Courtney was nominated as a leader who inspires trust, cultivates growth, and models excellence. “Professional development is a cornerstone of Courtney's leadership. She has excelled in implementing educational opportunities that meet the needs of team members at all levels, encouraging ongoing learning and growth, and broadening and improving clinical and professional skills.”

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educator was created to honor those exceptionally skilled and compassionate nursing educators who impart knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for nurses to provide compassionate and complex care. RRMC recognized one DAISY award winner as an Extraordinary Nurse Educator:

Heather McRae, MSN-Ed, RN, PCCN, MedSurg-BC, NPD-BC, Education & Clinical Excellence – As an educator Heather consistently assists students with their continuing education, and supports nurses to foster improvement and growth. “Heather’s feedback during regular progress meetings is always supportive and encouraging. She is always professional and patient with everyone and sensitive to individual learning needs.” 

To nominate a Rutland Regional Medical Center nurse for the DAISY Award visit: https://www.rrmc.org/patient-visitors/compliments-and-concerns/daisy-award/nomination-form/ 

This international nursing recognition program is celebrated twice each year at RRMC – once in May and once in November. 

“The DAISY Award celebrations reflect our deep gratitude and admiration for the dedication, empathy, and excellence that our nurses demonstrate,” stated Chief Nursing Officer Kelly Watson. “This is a special day for our nurses and our organization.”