Linda Webb Receives 2023 Patsy Shoemaker Award

In early December at hospital Christmas party, Linda Webb, CNO, received the 2023 Patsy Shoemaker Award.

The award has been given annually since 19XX. Named after long time associate, Patsy Shoemaker, the award is given to an associate who exemplifies superior qualities in their work and care they provide to PMH.

The nomination process begins in early November with staff members writing the nominations. After which, all associates are invited to vote blindly for who they think should be the recipient.

Linda has been with Pulaski Memorial since October of 1980, first starting as a patient care tech, before becoming a nurse, and working her up to becoming the Chief Nursing Officer.

Linda Powers, a nurse on the Medical/Surgical Ward nominated Linda. Part of her nomination read, “Yet, even with all of these accolades, you still don’t get the whole picture until you look at the true person. It’s her character, kindness, empathy, understanding, and zest for learning that makes her the kind of supervisor, director, employee, and friend that everyone hopes to have in their lives.”

Linda has always been dedicated to delivering high-quality services with a focus on ensuring patient safety. Her outstanding work in this regard was acknowledged when she received the Community Star Award from the National Office of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) in 2021. This prestigious award recognized her numerous contributions at both the local and state levels, where she has been instrumental in advocating for and leading initiatives aimed at enhancing patient safety.

More recently, Linda led the hospital’s efforts in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and serving on the county’s Drug-Free Council. Linda frequently acts as the intermediary between the hospital, our county, and state-level elected officials, offering invaluable insights and information on critical community issues.

When asked why she chose nursing, Linda often responds, ” I wanted to have a career that would make a difference and challenge me. Nursing is a respected and rewarding profession. Early on in my career, I had the privilege to care for my community, my neighbors, friends, and family. As a nurse, you are there for the happy times as well as some of the most difficult times in people’s lives. Patients and families look to you for comfort, compassion, and competence. As I have grown in my career, I had the opportunity to be a leader at Pulaski Memorial Hospital, where I can effect change and implement best practices and quality care throughout the hospital.”