FMOL Health Honors Outstanding Leaders with 2025 Leadership Awards

October 22, 2025

Baton Rouge, LA. – FMOL Health proudly announces the recipients of its 2025Leadership Awards, recognizing leaders whose vision, compassion, and innovation have made a lasting impact on the organization and the communities they serve.

Now in its second year, the FMOL Health Leadership Awards celebrate individuals who exemplify the organization’s Mission and Values through their leadership and commitment to advancing quality, equity, and excellence in healthcare. The awards were presented during the fall FMOL Health Leadership Assembly, where leaders from across the health system came together to celebrate this year’s theme, Leading Boldly.

“Leadership at FMOL Health is grounded in service,” said E. J. Kuiper, President and CEO of FMOL Health. “These honorees lead with faith, integrity, and compassion, reminding us that bold leadership begins by putting others first and advancing our Mission in every decision we make.”

Emerging Leader Award

Callie Varney, director of operations, St. Dominic Health Physician Group

The Emerging Leader Award honors a developing leader who has made a measurable impact through the successful completion of a key initiative or project that advances the organization’s Mission. Varney was recognized for leading process improvements that enhanced operational efficiency and strengthened coordination across St. Dominic Health Physician Group. Her efforts streamlined workflows, improved access to care, and elevated the overall patient experience. Known for her authenticity, accountability, and empathy, Varney exemplifies the next generation of Mission-driven leaders within FMOL Health.

Impact Leader Award

Kimaka Jones, director of nursing, St. Francis Health

The Impact Leader Award recognizes a leader who has made a significant difference in the lives of others through initiatives that expand access to care, improve health outcomes, or strengthen community partnerships. Jones was honored for her leadership in advancing community outreach programs and workforce development initiatives that address health disparities in the Monroe region. Through her efforts, St. Francis Health expanded access to preventive care and strengthened partnerships that promote wellness beyond hospital walls. Her servant leadership continues to foster hope, healing, and measurable impact in the communities FMOL Health serves.

Sustainer Award

Shantelle Graves, senior director of respiratory care, Our Lady of the Lake Health

The Sustainer Award honors an established leader whose consistent commitment to mentorship, stewardship, and Mission-centered leadership has strengthened the FMOL Health ministry over time. Graves was recognized for her many years of dedication to clinical excellence and workforce development within respiratory care. She has championed continuous education, quality improvement, and team collaboration, enhancing both patient outcomes and staff engagement. Known for her humility and collaborative spirit, Graves continually invests in others, ensuring that future generations of leaders are equipped to carry the Mission forward.

The FMOL Health Leadership Awards were established in 2024 to recognize outstanding leaders who embody the organization’s Mission, Vision, and Values in action. Through these annual awards, FMOL Health celebrates the transformative power of leadership rooted in faith and service.

To learn more about the FMOL Health Leadership Awards and the organization’s commitment to excellence in healthcare, visit fmolhs.org.