Healthy Connections is proud to announce that Shona Palmer, LPN, has been named the recipient of the 2026 DAISY Award. This recognition highlights healthcare excellence and compassionate patient care across Healthy Connections clinics in Arkansas.
Palmer serves patients at the Mena Clinic and has been a valued member of the Healthy Connections team since 2022.
The DAISY Award is an internationally respected honor presented to nurses who demonstrate extraordinary compassion and excellence in clinical care. Established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, the award is a global symbol of gratitude to nurses who go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients and communities.
A Dependable Nurse at Healthy Connections
Palmer earned multiple nominations recognizing her consistency, clinical knowledge, and unwavering support for both patients and her team.
In a nomination submitted by Kelli Lacefield, Palmer was described as a reliable and knowledgeable resource who consistently steps in to assist with patient scheduling challenges, documentation questions, and clinical concerns. From the perspective of a newer team member, her willingness to help and ability to explain processes clearly has made a lasting impact.
Her ability to support both patients and providers contributes directly to smoother workflows, improved communication, and a higher level of patient care within the clinic.
Compassion and Teamwork in Action
A second nomination, submitted by Brittiany Schuller, highlighted Palmer’s ability to support not only her assigned providers, but the entire clinical team.
“Shona exemplifies compassion and teamwork in everything she does,” Schuller wrote. “She consistently steps in to help anyone who needs assistance, always checking in to see how she can support the team. She plays a vital role in managing our inventory needs and helps keep our unit running smoothly, often behind the scenes.”
Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Palmer was recognized as a dependable coworker and a positive presence within the clinic—someone whose willingness to help and genuine kindness make a difference every day.
Recognizing Healthcare Excellence at Healthy Connections
Across every nomination, a consistent theme emerged: Shona Palmer represents the highest level of healthcare employee recognition in Arkansas and exemplifies the values that define Healthy Connections.
- Community – Supporting both patients and coworkers
- Compassion – Delivering care with patience and understanding
- Excellence – Maintaining consistency in every interaction
Her ability to combine these qualities in both routine and complex situations makes her a clear choice as the 2026 DAISY Award winner at Healthy Connections.
Leadership Recognition
Jessica Hood, Director of Nursing, emphasized the importance of recognizing nurses who consistently support both patient care and team success.
“The DAISY Award is about recognizing the moments—both big and small—where nurses make a meaningful difference,” Hood said. “Shona’s impact is seen not only in how she cares for patients, but in how she supports her team every single day. That consistency, compassion, and willingness to step in wherever needed is exactly what this award represents.”
Healthy Connections, Inc., CEO Tony Calandro added, “Shona reflects the very best of what we strive for at Healthy Connections. Her commitment to patient care, her support of her teammates, and her professionalism in every situation make her a deserving recipient of the DAISY Award. She embodies our mission of Community, Compassion, and Excellence.”
2026 DAISY Award Nominees at Healthy Connections
In addition to honoring Shona Palmer, Healthy Connections recognizes the many outstanding nurses nominated for the 2026 DAISY Award:
Jessica Tyler
Michele Reynolds
Zachary Geiling
Brittany Mayberry
Brittiany Schuller
Tory Janes
Dani Watson
Abbie Smith
Joanna Welch
Danielle Lewis
Sharon Maechler
Each nominee was recognized for their dedication, clinical excellence, and commitment to compassionate care across the communities served by Healthy Connections.
About the DAISY Award
More information about the DAISY Foundation and the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses can be found at https://www.daisyfoundation.org.
About Healthy Connections
Healthy Connections is a Federally-Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing medical, dental, and behavioral health services across Western and Central Arkansas. Through quality care and expanded access, Healthy Connections works to improve patient outcomes and deliver compassionate, patient-centered services regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
Join Our Team
Healthcare professionals interested in joining the Healthy Connections team can learn more and apply at https://healthy-connections.org/careers.
