Jon W. Cook, a patient transporter for Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, is a Summer 2026 Vanderbilt Health Credo Award winner. (Photo by Erin O. Smith)
For 17 years, Jon Cook has worked as a patient transporter in the Emergency Department at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.
A patient transporter moves patients safely between rooms and departments inside a medical facility using wheelchairs, stretchers or beds, according to a general job description.
Watching Cook in action makes one thing very clear — he is so much more than the tasks listed for his position.
His commitment to serving patients, families and his coworkers is the reason he was selected as a Summer 2026 Vanderbilt Health Credo Award winner.
“Jon consistently goes above and beyond to foster a collaborative and productive environment in the Peds ED,” reads his Credo nomination form. “His positive attitude and willingness to assist in any situation create a sense of camaraderie that benefits both staff and patients … he creates moments of joy and connection during what can often be high-stress shifts.
“Jon exemplifies the true spirit of teamwork, dedication and compassion that defines the values of the Peds ED,” the nomination continued.
Cook admitted he’s not one to sit idle when things need to be done.
“I don’t mind helping anyone,” said Cook. “I’m sort of a jack of all trades around here. If I am not transporting patients, I stock rooms, stock linens, changeover rooms and in general work to keep our area efficient.
“My biggest thing is making sure that all of our patients feel seen and taken care of,” Cook added, thoughtfully. “Being in the ED is tough and scary. I enjoy connecting with patients and families. I’ve seen a lot come through those ED doors. I’m thankful that I can be here to help.”
According to the Credo nomination, Cook’s willingness to pitch in and do whatever is necessary to provide the best care for patients and families has been impactful. Knowing his can-do attitude is always “on,” it wasn’t hard to entice him to his Credo Award reveal under false pretenses.
“I was on a 15-minute break in the break room,” Cook recalled. “My boss came in and said she needed my help getting something to the receiving dock.”
As the pair proceeded down the hallway, Cook recognized they were not going in the right direction and tried to redirect his boss.
“I mean, we were going in the opposite direction, away from the receiving dock towards a trauma bay. But I continued walking with her, and that’s when they surprised me. I was definitely shocked,” laughed Cook.
Not only did the nomination highlight Cook’s logistical savvy, his skill of identifying opportunities for improvement in the Pediatric ED was also championed.
“His innovative mindset has led to meaningful advancements including updates to the Mobile Heartbeat phones (an encrypted clinical enterprise smartphone application), transport dispatch systems and linen/pillow stocking procedures. His work ethic, knowledge and compassion make him an irreplaceable asset to our team.
“His ability to recognize and implement changes that enhance operations reflects his dedication to excellence and his desire to continually improve patient care.”
Watch Jon Cook’s Credo Award video.
If you are a VUMC employee, you can nominate a colleague for a Credo Award, C. Wright Pinson Leader Award, or Vanderbilt Health Team Award. Visit the Leadership Forum website to fill out a nomination form. Employees demonstrate credo behaviors when: They make those they serve the highest priority; respect privacy and confidentiality; communicate effectively; conduct themselves professionally; have a sense of ownership; and are committed to their colleagues. Elevate award nominations are accepted year-round. If a nomination is received after the cutoff for an award selection period, the nomination will be considered for the next period. VUMC VOICE will post stories on each of the award winners in the weeks following their announcement.
