Nurse of the Year
Presented by Preferred Medical
Nurses are instrumental in providing exceptional patient care. The North Metro Healthcare Awards presented by the Conway Regional Chamber of Commerce will honor Channing Hall, director of nursing for Independent Living Services, as Nurse of the Year. The Nurse of the Year award recognizes and honors a North Metro-area nurse who has consistently shown dedication and commitment to providing exceptional patient care, pursuing excellence in nursing and performing above expectations in the face of adversity. Hall serves as an example of this dedication, commitment and care in the nursing field. “It is truly an honor to be honored,” Hall said “I simply want to live life in a way that is pleasing to God. I know that my life’s work through my profession is to serve and make a difference in the lives of others. So receiving this award shows that the work I have done thus far has not gone unnoticed, and I still have a lot left to do.” Hall has worked for ILS since 2010. Quickly showing her heartfelt commitment to her work, she was named ILS’ Employee of the Year in 2011 and was later promoted to the director-of-nursing position. Hall worked in the evenings while pursuing a master’s degree with a specialty in psychiatric mental-health nursing. Upon completion of the degree, she will be qualified to practice as a nurse practitioner. Hall’s devotion to her work is evident in the words from her nomination. “At ILS, we do not have a nursing staff, so much of the medical care is provided by Channing,” her nomination letter reads. “She connects with patients and provides a level of care that is unmatched. Her spirit of professional service is also seen in her personal life. Due to a family tragedy, Channing is raising her amazing 7-year-old nephew. She has been a wonderful caregiver and role model to this young man and works hard to put his needs above her own.” Hall’s work at ILS includes educating and advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental needs. They can, with assistance, make informed decisions regarding their health, safety and overall well-being, and Hall takes pride in providing that assistance, care and support. “Being able to aid in helping this population gain and maintain a degree of independence is how I best serve the agency and find fulfillment in my work,” she said. Hall said the nursing profession offers many rewards, and she enjoys serving as a
difference-maker in people’s most critical times. “Every day, I encounter individuals, some in their most vulnerable states, and have the opportunity to make a difference in what outcomes arise from their circumstances. That’s a big deal,” Hall said. “In working with the [developmentally disability/intellectual disability] population, it makes me look at and approach life in a different way. Helping others achieve ‘small victories’ that we most often take for granted is the absolute most rewarding part of my job.” Outside of her service at ILS, Hall supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.