East Georgia Regional Medical Center (EGRMC) proudly announces its annual award recipients for Clinical Manager of the Year, Non-Clinical Manager of the Year, and Employee of the Year. These individuals have demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment, and service, and continue to exemplify EGRMC’s mission to provide quality, compassionate care to every patient, every time, always.
Jennifer Roberson Named Clinical Manager of the Year
East Georgia Regional Medical Center is honored to recognize Jennifer Roberson, Director of Rehab Services and Wound Care, as the Clinical Manager of the Year. Since taking on her leadership role in February 2023, Jennifer has led a remarkable transformation within her department, dramatically improving productivity, engagement, and patient care outcomes.
Through strategic reviews of department processes and billing accuracy, staff education, and monthly rounding, Jennifer has led her team to consistently exceed expectations. Employee engagement scores in Rehab have risen to 4.66/5, while her additional leadership of the Wound Care team has seen engagement grow to 4.33/5.
She also played a pivotal role in Project EMpower and led Oracle training efforts for fellow directors, all while maintaining a positive, solution-focused leadership style.
“Jennifer is truly an amazing director. She demonstrates action based leadership every day and practices what she preaches,” said Jacob Turner, a team member. “She makes sure all her staff feel supported and heard.”
Jennifer is actively involved in multiple initiatives across the organization, including leading the Inpatient Pressure Injury Prevention Committee and serving on the Georgia Hospital Association Leadership Committee. She also volunteers with Concerns of Police Survivors. Her leadership has left a lasting mark on EGRMC and the patients it serves.
Clay Kirkland Named Non-Clinical Manager of the Year
East Georgia Regional Medical Center is proud to recognize Clay Kirkland, Materials Manager, as the Non-Clinical Manager of the Year. Clay oversees the hospital’s Materials Management Department and has led key operational improvements, including the successful implementation of the Oracle system and the setup of new PAR inventory areas across nine departments.
Clay is known for his integrity, hands-on approach, and deep commitment to his team. Whether staffing is short or running smoothly, Clay can often be found working shoulder-to-shoulder with his team to keep operations moving. He is a transparent communicator, a problem solver at heart, and a respected leader throughout the hospital.
“Clay is everything a great leader should be,” said Chief Financial Officer John White. “He inspires trust, listens with empathy, and always does what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable.”
He is an active member of several hospital committees, including the Emergency Management and Hazardous Materials Committees, and leads the monthly Supply Expense Committee. His steady leadership and willingness to face challenges head-on continue to support hospital-wide success.
Emily Gillen Named Employee of the Year
East Georgia Regional Medical Center proudly recognizes Emily Gillen, Clinical Informaticist, as the Employee of the Year. A team member for over eight years, Emily is known for her exceptional work ethic, calm problem-solving, and collaborative approach to healthcare technology and informatics.
Emily has played a vital role in training new providers on charting systems, managing system upgrades, and designing reports that support quality, safety, and compliance across the hospital. Her professionalism and adaptability have not only earned the respect of her colleagues, but have also positively impacted physician satisfaction and workflow.
“Emily has a positive attitude despite the challenges that can come with IT issues,” said Chief Nursing Officer Marie Burdett. “She does a remarkable job managing provider frustrations, closing the communication loop, and improving relationships.”
Emily also represents EGRMC in regional training efforts, extending her influence beyond the hospital by sharing her knowledge and supporting peers across the healthcare system.
Recognizing Excellence Across the Board
“These three individuals represent the very best of our hospital,” said EGRMC CEO Stephen Pennington. “Their leadership, character, and dedication to our patients and teams inspire all of us to raise the bar every single day. They embody what it means to serve with compassion, excellence, and integrity. At East Georgia Regional Medical Center, we remain committed to our mission: Every patient. Every time. Always.”
