Samaritan Medical Center announced on Apr. 9 the recipients of its DAISY and BEE Awards for February 2026, recognizing exceptional staff contributions in nursing and support roles.
The awards highlight the importance of acknowledging healthcare professionals who provide outstanding care to patients. The DAISY Award honors extraordinary nurses, while the BEE Award recognizes other team members who demonstrate excellence at both the hospital and outpatient clinics.
Nichole Covell, a Registered Nurse and Lactation Educator at Samaritan’s Car-Freshner Center for Women and Children, received the February DAISY Award after being nominated by a patient. The patient said Covell’s professionalism and compassionate care made her feel truly heard, providing comfort during her experience. As part of her recognition, Covell received a certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and “A Healer’s Touch” sculpture hand-carved by artists from Zimbabwe’s Shona Tribe. A larger version of this sculpture is displayed in Samaritan’s Healing Gardens to honor all current and future award winners.
Jacqueline Maynes, Nursing Assistant at Samaritan’s Progressive Care Unit, was honored with the February BEE Award following a nomination from a patient who praised Maynes’ personality and comforting presence. Maynes received a certificate, an award pin, and a gift bag as tokens of appreciation.
The awards are presented throughout the year with nominations accepted from patients, families, or colleagues at any time through samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Samaritan Medical Center is described as a not-for-profit community medical center with 290 beds that offers comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services to both civilian and military communities in Watertown. The institution emphasizes quality care based on compassion and safety principles.
The DAISY Foundation was established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes to recognize nurses internationally for their profound impact on patients’ lives. It supports more than 3,900 healthcare facilities worldwide through various programs honoring direct care nurses as well as nurse leaders and students.
