VA Manchester director receives NHHA honors for distinguished service

“This year’s recipient is recognized nationally as an exceptional servant leader and driver of high reliability that embodies authenticity and leads by example by setting the standard of excellence,” said Executive Vice President Susan Reeves, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and the new chair of the NHHA Board presenting Forrest the award.

The James A. Hamilton Founder’s Award is the highest recognition presented. The recipient is an individual of integrity and consistent commitment readily evident to associates and whose extraordinary achievement or exceptional contribution is in the interest of human health and well-being, that has extended into the local community, state, or nation.

There was no doubt in the mind of Chief Nurse Executive Jennifer F. Winslow that Forrest was the perfect nominee for the award. She works alongside him every day as the associate director for patient care services. Winslow views first-hand his outstanding service to health care and New Hampshire Veterans.

“He is a transformational leader who inspires all those around him to take the extra step, go the extra mile, and connect with each other and our Veterans because relationships matter. He is passionate and dedicated to ensuring VA Manchester Healthcare System provides unparalleled health care to our Veterans,” shared Winslow.

Reeves highlighted Forrest’s achievements before announcing his name. She noted his immediate actions after the passage of the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act legislation to ensure New Hampshire Veterans received health care benefits for today, tomorrow, and for their future needs. Additionally, his support of the “Hire Right, Hire Fast” initiative leading to the highest employee growth rate over a 5-year average. He extended retention education loan repayment to vital positions resulting in a reduced nurse turnover rate.

“Our [NHHA] recipient is strongly committed to suicide prevention efforts and has been a        VA New England Network leader in the development of new and novel suicide prevention approaches,” said Reeves. “VA Manchester has the highest compliance rate for skills trainings for evaluation and management of suicide.”

Forrest has led the healthcare system in developing eight new suicide prevention coalitions through a new community engagement partnership program.

During the annual meeting, four individuals were recognized with a 2024 NHHA Award of Excellence in a room filled with health care professionals as well as family, friends and colleagues of the recipients.

“It was our honor and privilege to recognize the ongoing efforts and leadership of these extraordinary individuals, as they strive to make improvements in health care access, quality and services to support their patients, staff and communities,” stated NHHA President Steve Ahnen.

“I am deeply grateful and appreciative to NHHA for receipt of this award and for the nomination,” shared Forrest. “It is an honor for me to be a part of the New Hampshire community of health care professionals, and most importantly to serve my fellow Veteran patients who are counting on VA Manchester to provide them with excellence in health care.

Forrest added, “I walk the hallways every day of the medical center talking with and listening to our Veteran patients, their family members, and caregivers. Every step forward taken to care for our Veterans is because of the dedicated and professional staff at VA Manchester. It’s rewarding and heartfelt to know our footprint has impacted so many lives in such a positive way as a partner in their health care journey.” 

Lori Flynn, Public Affairs Officer

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