Employee Spotlight Archive — Page 2 of 14

Woman in athletic clothing stands beneath a barbell in a powerlifting competition venue, gripping the bar as she warms up. Other competitors, equipment, and a National Senior Games Association sign are visible in the background.
September 5, 2025

Leslie Grissim’s dedication to fitness led to the national Senior Games — and a medal

As the facility dog coordinator at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Grissim is always on the go.

By Jessica Pasley
Crowd of guests mingle and sit at tables outside The Pinnacle beneath a large Stand Up to Cancer sign reading “ONE NIGHT. ONE GOAL. BEAT CANCER.”
August 12, 2025

Stand Up to Cancer pre-taping event features food, fun and festivities

The show highlighting advancements in cancer care was taped at The Pinnacle in downtown Nashville. Approximately 1,000 VUMC employees and their guests attended a pre-taping party and show.

By Erin O. Smith
A woman in a blue Vanderbilt University Medical Center polo sits beside a man wearing scrubs and a stethoscope in a medical office.
July 10, 2025

A snack almost turns deadly; VUMC nurse saves choking co-worker with Heimlich maneuver

“I said ‘Thank you for saving my life,’” she said. “I have awesome co-workers.”

By Wayne Wood
Portrait of a smiling woman holding a Nikon camera and wearing a stethoscope over a colorful Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt shirt.
June 12, 2025

From professional photographer to pediatric nurse, Mel Firebaugh is focused on bringing joy

“Being a photographer taught me to treasure the good memories and hold tight through the tough times. This is useful in nursing because there are a lot of tough times.”

By Jessica Pasley
A smiling man wearing glasses and a visitor badge stands beside a smiling woman in a hospital lobby, with a staircase behind them.
May 19, 2025

Saved by an angel — in Aldi

Steve Glaeser fell in an Aldi supermarket; a Vanderbilt Health critical care nurse saved his life.

By John Howser
Volunteer Nicholas Joy stands smiling outside Vanderbilt University Medical Center, wearing a blue volunteer vest and identification badge.
May 13, 2025

VUMC volunteer Nicholas Joy wins Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award

The Charles Strobel Legacy of Service Award recognizes individuals or groups who have made a lasting impact on the community through their volunteerism.

By Wayne Wood