Every Veteran, Every Day: Building Inclusivity at Tomah VA
Celebrate innovation in Veteran care with the Robert L. Jesse Award! Each year, this honor recognizes exceptional VA employees and teams driving transformative healthcare solutions.
Each year, the Robert L. Jesse Award for Excellence in Innovation, known as the Bob Jesse Award, celebrates the remarkable achievements of a VA employee and a team or department that exemplifies innovative practices within the Department of Veterans Affairs. This award is more than a recognition; it honors those individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to advancing healthcare innovation that not only meets but exceeds expectations, restores hope, and fortifies trust. At iEx2024, the objective was to shine a spotlight on employees and collaborators whose dedication and ingenuity have led to transformative solutions, ultimately enriching the care provided to Veterans. Their efforts embody the very essence of innovation, inspiring us all to continue striving for excellence in Veteran care.
The Jesse Family Foundation and a VA News release noted that the inaugural award was presented in 2019, to Dr. Robert L. Jesse, M.D., Ph.D., a visionary leader in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). He was known for inspiring others to reach their potential and ensuring they received recognition for their contributions. As the VA Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Health starting July 4, 2010, Dr. Jesse advocated for the VHA SimLEARN, which is a national program utilizing simulation training to advance clinical skills of VHA staff. . As the son of a Veteran, he fostered innovation and helped create a supportive culture for new ideas to flourish.
The winners and finalists were chosen by a committee made up of leaders from various VHA branches. The committee evaluated participants based on multiple criteria, including vision, community service, interpersonal skills, and outcomes focused on Veterans.
This year, the Tomah VA Medical Center is proud to highlight the recognition of one of its dedicated team members, Sierra Phillips, who was nominated in the team category for the National Implementation team of PRIDE In All Who Served. Sierra serves as the LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator at Tomah VAMC, where she has made significant strides in advocating for the rights and needs of LGBTQ+ Veterans.
Recently, Sierra received this esteemed award in acknowledgment of her exceptional collaboration and commitment to the PRIDE initiative. Throughout her 13-year tenure at the Tomah VA Medical Center, she has tirelessly worked to ensure that LGBTQ+ Veterans and other underserved populations receive the care and support they deserve.
Sierra’s passion for her role is evident in her belief that “Every Veteran has earned the right to receive the best quality healthcare we can offer and deserves access to the world-class programs the VA has available.” She emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in healthcare, stating, “We are committed to the message that all Veterans are welcome,” highlighting the VA’s dedication to serving the diverse Veteran community.
In her role, Sierra focuses on creating a safe and welcoming environment where all Veterans feel valued and respected. She wants every Veteran to understand that “the Tomah VA is committed to providing services in a safe and welcoming environment for Every Veteran, Every Day.” Her work not only reflects her dedication to individual Veterans but also serves to foster a culture of acceptance and understanding within the VA system, ensuring that no one is left behind.