Technological Innovation:

Julie Kennedy Oehlert, DNP, RN & Vicki Haddock, Chief Experience Officer, ECU Health

ECU Health’s team implemented a groundbreaking AI-powered Workplace Violence Prediction & Prevention Platform (WPVMPP), identifying risk zones and repeat offenders to proactively allocate security and staffing resources. This ethical, data-integrated initiative led to safer environments, reduced incidents, and justified 22 new FTEs—redefining how health systems address workplace aggression.

Talent Management:

Sara AlAfandi, VP of Human Resources, Eastern Health Cluster (Saudi Arabia)

Sara led EHC’s Staff Utilization and Mobility Program, redeploying over 1,000 staff and saving $25M through strategic talent planning. The initiative supports Vision 2030 by advancing Saudization and building a future-ready, agile healthcare workforce.

Talent Acquisition:

Mark Becker, National Director of TA Strategies & Employer Brand, Trinity Health

Mark led Trinity Health’s rollout of ERIN, a referral platform that automated tracking and gamified engagement—resulting in over 500 nursing hires in 90 days and advancing the goal to fill 50% of jobs through referrals.

Learning & Development:

Marissa Fuqua Miller, Sr. Specialist, Equity & Opportunity, Oregon Health & Science University

Marissa co-led OHSU’s Building Bridges to Healthcare Careers program, which trained and supported nearly 150 internal frontline workers into clinical roles, advancing internal mobility and workforce diversity.

HR Innovator:

Kristina Coon, VP Total Rewards, Novant Health

Kristina redesigned Novant’s total rewards strategy with a focus on equity, career growth, and holistic well-being, aligning talent experience with system strategy to improve attraction and retention.