Healthy Work Environment Awards

Presented during the Sigma Spotlight: Concurrent Sessions Award Presentations with Q&A

Celebrating Excellence in Healthy Work Environments

The Healthy Work Environment Awards proudly recognize and honor clinical and academic organizations that are setting the gold standard for workplace well-being. These distinguished recipients demonstrate an unwavering commitment to cultivating supportive, empowering environments where professionals thrive—and where excellence in healthcare outcomes follows.

Through innovation, leadership, and a deep investment in their people, these award winners are transforming the future of healthcare. Their work is proving that when caregivers are supported, entire communities benefit.

Clinical Healthy Work Environment Award Recipient

Kathy Ann Sienko, O.B.E., DProf. Msc, BSC, Hons, RN, FInstLM
Naomi Tuifo, BSN, RN, Cert Social Services

Organization Name and Affiliation:
King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre Nursing Affairs
Code Lavender Team

Code Lavender at KFSHRC is a shining example of innovation in action. This culturally tailored, evidence-based initiative creates a thriving, supportive workplace where caregivers feel valued and empowered. By prioritizing psychosocial well-being, strengthening resilience, and championing staff retention, Code Lavender elevates both the employee experience and the quality of patient care.

Backed by strong leadership and thoughtfully adapted to reflect organizational culture, the program has become a cornerstone of long-term workforce well-being. Fully aligned with Magnet principles and strategic goals, Code Lavender doesn’t just support staff — it inspires excellence across the organization.

Academic Healthy Work Environment Award Recipient

Jennifer M. Ahlquist DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, FNP-BC
Andrea N. Kwasky DNP, PMHNP-BC, PMHCNS-BC

Organization Name and Affiliation:
University of Detroit Mercy, College of Health Professions
Wellness and Well-Being Committee

This inspiring presentation shines a spotlight on scalable strategies that create healthier workplaces—within academia and far beyond. Led by the Founder and Chair of the University of Detroit Mercy College of Health Professions Wellness Committee, the session brings the World Health Organization Healthy Workplace Framework to life through the committee’s remarkable journey.

What began as a focused commitment to suicide prevention has evolved into a powerful movement fostering well-being across the entire campus community. Today, the committee champions an academic environment where personal wellness, professional excellence, and a deeply compassionate culture of care thrive—preparing and empowering the next generation of health professionals to lead with both skill and heart.

Visit the Healthy Work Environment Awards page to learn more.

Award Presentation

Healthy Work Environments Award

Attendees