As Vanderbilt Health System leader, Pinson has championed a culture of service and has overseen a period of explosive clinical growth.

Vanderbilt men’s hoops great Shan Foster, who now works at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, will be inducted into the 2025 Allstate Sugar Bowl’s New Orleans Sports Hall of Fame.

Pinson, who is stepping away from his role as Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Office for VUMC on June 30, was a pioneer in the field of liver transplantation, founding the Vanderbilt Liver Transplant Program and establishing multiple transplant residency and nurse practitioner programs.

As an appraiser, Ried will receive specialized training and will be responsible for assessing hospitals worldwide to determine if they meet Magnet requirements.

The OPTN is a unique public-private partnership that links all professionals involved in the U.S. donation and transplantation system.

“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.”

“I am incredibly fortunate to work under such an exemplary director,” wrote one nominator. “Ahmed’s leadership style is both inspiring and effective. He possesses a remarkable amount of professionalism and can create a motivating work environment while providing constructive feedback.”