Established in 2008, the Credo Award recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate exceptional credo behaviors — that is: 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.
The Winter 2026 Credo Award winners are:
- Melanie Byers, principal learning & development specialist, Specialized Training, HR Learning & Development
- S. Barron Frazier, MD, medical director, Pediatric Emergency Department, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
- Matt Pack, CPhT, pharmacy tech manager, Vanderbilt Integrated Pharmacy
“The Credo Award recognizes Vanderbilt Health employees who stand out in all the best ways. They bring our values to life through their everyday behavior and set an example we can all follow,” said Jane Freedman, MD, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Health System Officer for Vanderbilt Health. “I’m honored to acknowledge Melanie, Barron and Matt as team members who’ve distinguished themselves as exemplary for those they work alongside and in the larger community we serve.”
Each winner is honored with an award video, a profile article in VUMC Voice following the award announcement, and recognition during the biannual Leadership Forum.‑annual Leadership Forum.
View the Winter 2026 Credo Award videos.
The Credo Award, an integral part of employee recognition at Vanderbilt Health, has historically been announced as part of the Leadership Forum programming. Beginning February 2026, the Credo Award recognition will once again be announced quarterly and expanded to a wider audience through the Vanderbilt Health Hub. A total of 12 winners will be recognized each year.
If you are a Vanderbilt Health employee, you can nominate a colleague for a Credo Award, C. Wright Pinson Leader Award, or Team Award. Visit the Awards and Nominations SharePoint site 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. 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.