LAURINBURG – Atrium Health presented its top honor on Oct. 22 to a well-deserving associate of Scotland Memorial Hospital.

Niki Hammonds, assistant director of surgical services, was nominated for the Pinnacle Award by another associate who wanted to make sure Hammonds was recognized for her amazing actions.

The award ceremony was held at the Charlotte City Club and was attended by Hammonds and her husband Chad Hammonds; Greg Wood, president and CEO of Scotland Health Care System; Gray Mills, vice president of strategic services; and Kim Mintz, director of surgical services. Hundreds of applications were submitted across the Atrium system, and Niki was one of twelve to receive this award.

The presentation of the Pinnacle Award is the highest award an Atrium teammate can receive. The Pinnacle recognizes, rewards and honors teammates who demonstrate extraordinary attention to our core values of Caring, Commitment, Integrity and Teamwork and reinforces the importance of these behaviors to others.

A standing ovation was offered as Joe Forquer, director of teammate experience – Recognition and Events for Atrium Health Human Resources, surprised and announced Niki as one of this year’s Pinnacle Award recipients at a Leadership Team meeting on the Scotland campus at the end of September.

“Niki is characterized as the perfect example of what the Pinnacle Awards stands for and her commitment and love for Danielle will forever be etched in the minds of her family, friends and her fellow staff members,” Mintz said. “Her actions have shown that Scotland Health Care System is not just a place to work; but a family who loves and cares for each other.”

The story of Danielle Burns made local and national headlines in May when Danielle was able to see her daughter and step-son graduate high school. Niki’s actions along with the help of the Robeson County School District Superintendent, Shanita Wooten, Scotland Regional Hospice, photographer, Quin DeBerry, Scotland Health Care System’s Human Resources team and many others were the direct result of her long-time friend and colleagues dying wish coming true. Niki wanted to give a heartfelt thank you to all who came together to make this happen.

“I dedicate this award to Danielle and her family because without her, this would not be possible.” Hammonds said. “It is an honor to receive this award and Danielle will forever hold a special place in my heart and in the hearts of many.”

Tracie M. Stubbs is the marketing coordinator for Scotland Health Care System.

Courtesy photo Niki Hammonds, assistant director of surgical services at Scotland Memorial Hospital, was presented with the Pinnacle Award by hospital officials recently.
https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/web1_Scot.jpgCourtesy photo Niki Hammonds, assistant director of surgical services at Scotland Memorial Hospital, was presented with the Pinnacle Award by hospital officials recently.

Tracie M. Stubbs

Scotland Health Care System