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Mental Health Association of Greater Knoxville |
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Winners of the eighth annual Diamond Awards were announced last evening at the Hyatt Regency.
The Diamond Award program, co-sponsored by Covenant Behavioral Health and the Mental Health Association of Greater Knoxville, recognizes "unsung heroes" in the local mental health profession. Awards were presented to professionals in two categories -- licensed, direct treatment staff (physicians, psychologists, therapists, nurses, etc.) and non-licensed, direct treatment or support staff.
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Marianne O'Brien, Ph.D., M.P.H., R.N., was named the winner in the licensed category. Dr. O'Brien began her healthcare career in 1968, and began working for Peninsula Healthcare in 1989. Her many roles with Peninsula Healthcare, especially in the development of new clinical programs, helped prepare her for her current role as clinical director for Covenant Behavioral Health, the network of mental healthcare organizations for Covenant Health. Dr. O'Brien is praised by her staff for her communication skills and her ability to focus on the big picture while pulling the small details together. |
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In the non-licensed category, Judy Rice was chosen as the 1997 Diamond Award winner. Former director of the Blount County Juvenile Court, Rice now serves as the director for the Blount County Schools Family Resource Center. Rice is known throughout the community for her vast knowledge and commitment to the students and families she serves. She has been instrumental in developing many programs in Blount County, such as the establishment of a family referral service, an automated telephone information line to access community services, and numerous support groups for individuals challenged with alcohol and drug abuse. |
A neutral panel of judges from outside the Knoxville area selected Diamond Award winners based on their accomplishments in the mental healthcare profession. Each winner received a specially commissioned plaque and a $1,000 cash prize.
Seven finalists in the licensed category and three finalists in the non-licensed category were recognized at the awards banquet. Sam Venable, author and Knoxville News-Sentinel columnist, was the keynote speaker.