October 25, 2024
CONCORD, NH – At its Annual Meeting recently held October 20 – 22, 2024, the New Hampshire Hospital Association (NHHA) honored four individuals from across the state who have made significant contributions to their hospital or the health care field.
“It was our honor and privilege to recognize the ongoing efforts and leadership of these extraordinary individuals, as they strive to make improvements in health care access, quality and services to support their patients, staff and communities,” stated Steve Ahnen, president of the New Hampshire Hospital Association.
Below is a list of the recipients for the 2024 NHHA Awards of Excellence:
John T. Broderick, Jr., was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Before entering public service, Broderick was a civil trial lawyer in private practice for over 20 years. He was a member of the New Hampshire Supreme Court from 1995 to 2010, serving the last seven years as its Chief Justice. He created the first ever business court, and expanded family court, mental health court and drug court dockets across the state. After stepping down as Chief Justice, he became Dean of the Law School at UNH, improving the law school’s US News & World Report ranking an unprecedented 49 slots! He was also the founder of the Warren B. Rudman Center for Justice, Leadership and Public Policy at the law school. In 2017, John became the Senior Director of External Affairs at Dartmouth Health, where he continues to work. Today, Broderick works to change the conversation around mental illness in New Hampshire, the region and across the country, describing it as the most meaningful work he has done throughout his career.
Kevin M. Forrest, the VA Manchester Healthcare System Director, was recognized with The James A. Hamilton Founder’s Award, NHHA’s highest honor. The Founder’s Award is presented only as appropriate for outstanding service to health care on behalf of the people of New Hampshire. The recipient shall be a person whose integrity and constant commitment are evident to those around them, and whose extraordinary achievement or exceptional contribution in the interest of human health and well-being has extended into the local community, state or nation. Forrest was recognized as a transformational leader who radiates authenticity, integrity, and transparency, which is evident every day. His efforts ensuring New Hampshire Veterans receive health care benefits for today, tomorrow, and for their future needs are clearly evident in all activities he undertakes.
Dr. Patrick Hattan, Associate Medical Director of New Hampshire Hospital and Medical Staff Organization President, was the recipient of the Medical Staff Award for outstanding service to his hospital and community, an honor bestowed upon a medical staff member whose professional performance has strengthened the cooperation between the hospital and the medical staff and who brings credit to the institution and the community. According to his colleagues, Dr. Hattan has fostered a spirit of collaboration and teamwork. He consistently bridges gaps and creates an environment where open communication and mutual respect are the norm. Dr. Hattan’s expertise in severe and persistent mental illness and psychodynamic techniques lends itself to a truly unique style of patient interactions and assessment and gives him an unparalleled ability to connect with and listen to patients.
Charles Plimpton of Dartmouth Health’s Board of Trustees was recognized with the Outstanding Trustee of the Year Award. This award is presented to a trustee of a New Hampshire Hospital Association member institution whose achievement in the field of hospital trusteeship stands out above all others, and who serves as an example to encourage others in the pursuit of excellence in hospital governance. Plimpton is described as steadfast and highly driven. He keeps his eye on the organization’s long-term goals and assesses every Board decision against this target. He understands leadership’s long-term financial plan, which he then uses as a guide to ensure the Board’s short-term decisions are aligned and on track with future needs.
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About New Hampshire Hospital Association
Hospitals have been collaborating through the New Hampshire Hospital Association since 1934. The Association’s mission is to lead through advocacy, education, and information in support of its member hospitals and health systems as they strive to improve the health of the patients and communities they serve.
Photo Credit: Amanda Bizarro Photography, LLC
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