Maria Parham Health Names 2026 Mercy Award Winner

Emilee Johnson recognized for demonstrating compassion and providing outstanding service to patients, hospital and local community

Maria Parham health recently announced that Emilee Johnson has been recognized as the facility's 2026 Mercy Award winner. The Mercy Award recognizes one employee from each of Lifepoint Health's facilities who profoundly touches the lives of others and best represents the spirit and values on which the company was founded. 

Established in 2001, the Mercy Award is an annual recognition program that honors the life and contributions of Scott Mercy, Lifepoint's founding chairman and chief executive officer. The award is considered the highest honor a Lifepoint employee can receive.

"At Maria Parham Health, our caring and compassionate team members are at the heart of advancing our mission of making communities healthier - and Emilee Johnson is a shining example of this day in and day out," said Bert Beard, Market CEO of Maria Parham Health. "We are so proud to recognize the many contributions Emilee has made to caring for patients, supporting our hospital, and serving our community. Emilee's leadership, compassion, and servant's heart set an example for all of us."

Emilee Johnson, Vice President of Operations, has dedicated more than 23 years to Maria Parham Health, beginning as an Occupational Therapist and growing into a key executive leader across the health system. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving both patient care and the employee experience. 

Johnson has played a critical role in advancing safety and operational excellence, including leading the development of the organization's Emergency Management Plan and serving as Chair of the Workplace Violence Committee. Her work has strengthened the safety of the care environment and contributed to initiatives such as the Emergency Department "Safe Spaces" design enhancements.

Beyond her work inside the hospital, Johnson has made a lasting impact in the community. She founded and continues to lead the Maria Parham Litter Sweep, promoting environmental stewardship for more than a decade. She also launched the "Stomp the Stigma" 5K and fun run, raising awareness and more than $5,000 to support local mental health and addiction resources.

Johnson is deeply engaged in community partnerships, serving on multiple local boards including the YMCA, Triangle North Healthcare Foundation, and the Greater Franklin Chamber of Commerce. Her work helps strengthen collaboration between the hospital and the community it serves.

Colleagues describe Johnson as a compassionate leader who builds meaningful relationships, inspires others, and consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty. She is known for fostering an environment where team members feel valued, supported, and motivated to deliver the best for patients and one another.

"Emilee doesn't just talk about our mission of making communities healthier - she lives it every single day." said one coworker. "Her leadership, kindness, and dedication to our patients, staff, and community truly embody everything the Mercy Award represents."

Each facility winner, including Emilee Johnson, will be considered for Lifepoint Health's 2026 companywide Mercy Award. The companywide winner will be announced this summer and honored during a ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee.