Annual Award for Professionalism
Presented by the UTMB Medical Staff Professionalism Committee, this award honors individuals who exemplify collegiality, competence, integrity, and a commitment to continuous improvement and clinical excellence. Aligned with UTMB’s mission, vision, and values, the award is typically given to one physician and one allied health professional each year – however, this year two allied health professionals were recognized for their outstanding contributions.
Reagan Davis, MPAS, PA-C, Department of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery
“Reagan Davis is recognized for his integrity, teamwork, and clinical excellence. He is a trusted colleague who fosters collaboration, delivers compassionate patient care, and mentors fellow providers with generosity. Committed to continuous learning and improvement, he has strengthened the role of advanced practice providers within his department.”
Laura Ellender, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, CBC Family Medicine
Laura Ellender is recognized for her integrity, leadership, and dedication to advancing patient care. As Director of Advanced Practice Providers, she fosters teamwork, advocates for APPs, and models collaboration across disciplines. A skilled clinician and mentor, she upholds the highest standards of family medicine while pursuing her DNP and driving improvements in care delivery and APP practice.”
Shine a Spotlight on National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week
What is National APP Week?
National APP Week is a designated time to honor the vital role of Advanced Practice Providers, which includes Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Certified Nurse Midwives and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, in delivering exemplary, patient-centered care. It is meant to recognize their expanding contributions across healthcare settings. The week in 2025 is scheduled for September 22 to 26.
Why It Matters in Texas
With one of the nation's largest healthcare workforces, Texas relies heavily on APPs to extend care access and uphold quality, especially in rural and underserved communities. National APP Week presents a timely opportunity to showcase their impact and elevate their voices.
How to Celebrate APP Week in Texas
Share stories from the field: Encourage APPs across hospitals, clinics, and community practices to share moments that define their work, whether it's a triumph in telehealth, a teamwork success story, or a gesture of compassion that made all the difference.
Leverage organizational backing: Partner with professional associations, like Texas Nurse Practitioners, to tap into existing promotional toolkits, social campaigns, and proclamations that align with state-level advocacy efforts.
Host events & recognition ceremonies: Consider organizing in-person or hybrid gatherings, lunch-and-learns, awards breakfasts, panel discussions, or even co-host with local sports teams to unite and uplift APPs in communal celebration.
Engage online: Use hashtags like #NationalAPPWeek and share content on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Spotlight your APP colleagues for their clinical excellence, mentorship, and innovation.
Bringing It All Together
As we head into APP Week this September, let's elevate the voices of those who drive patient care forward, often behind the scenes and with profound impact. Their dedication not only drives clinical excellence, but upholds the values of teamwork, continuous improvement, and integrity at the heart of healthcare.
APP Corner is a monthly feature showcasing UTMB's Advanced Practice Providers.