Franciscan Health Chief Nursing Officer For Central Indiana Receives Inaugural District DAISY Leadership Award

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Dawn Scott, chief nursing officer for Franciscan Health in Central Indiana, was recently honored as one of the inaugural recipients of the District DAISY Leadership Awards by the Indiana Organization for Nursing Leadership (IONL) during its 2025 Spring Conference. 

The event honored outstanding nurse leaders throughout the state who exemplify extraordinary commitment to compassionate, visionary, and impactful leadership in nursing. Scott was recognized for the Central District.

"We are very proud of Dawn for receiving this honor," said Lori Price, president and CEO for Franciscan Health Central Indiana. "To be recognized among the large group of nominees throughout the state is a true testament to the dedication that she has for her work and our patients at Franciscan. We are fortunate to have Dawn leading our amazing team of nurses here in Central Indiana."

In partnership with the DAISY Foundation, IONL launched a new district-level recognition to honor nurse leaders who consistently inspire and support others, promote a healthy work environment, and advance the profession through exemplary leadership. This award extends DAISY's mission of celebrating nurses who make a meaningful difference by bringing it to the local leadership level across Indiana.

Each recipient was honored during a special ceremony at the Spring Conference, surrounded by peers, mentors, and family members. The award presentations highlighted stories of courage, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the nursing profession and their commitment to the IONL Pillars: Leadership, Education, Advocacy, Diversity, Ethics, and Relationships.

"This recognition is a powerful way to celebrate nurse leaders across Indiana who are not only excellent clinicians, educators, and administrators, but also lead with heart," said Cathy Wichman, CEO of IONL. "Our hope is that this award will continue to shine a light on the many ways nurse leaders positively shape healthcare across our communities."

The IONL District DAISY Leadership Awards will be an annual honor alongside the IONL State DAISY Leadership Award. For more information regarding the awards, including how to nominate a deserving nurse leader or to learn more about IONL’s mission and programs, please visit the official IONL website.