May 5, 2026 – Manning, SC – McLeod Health Clarendon is pleased to announce the 2026 Nurse of the Year and Tech of the Year Award Recipients: Kayla Sims, McLeod Health Clarendon Registered Nurse of the Year and Samnatha Deas, Tech of the Year.

All McLeod Health Clarendon staff nurses were asked to nominate a fellow nurse who provides quality, compassionate care while personifying true faithfulness to their profession. The award recipients were then honored during a special ceremony.

“We are proud to recognize these two women for their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to nursing excellence,” said Scott Adams McLeod Health Clarendon CEO. “As we observe Nurses Week, we pause to honor all nurses who play a vital role in providing exceptional care each and every day. Their dedication to delivering high-quality care and service makes a meaningful and lasting impact on the patients and communities who entrust us with their healthcare needs, as well as advancing our mission of improving the overall health and well-being of those we serve.”

Kayla Sims, RN was named Nurse of the Year for being a patient advocate and team player. One nomination said, “Kayla consistently goes above and beyond for every patient who walks through the Emergency Department doors, treating each individual with kindness, respect, and genuine care. Her ability to connect with patients and care for them as if they were family sets her apart.”

Samantha Deas, Emergency Department Technician was named Tech of the Year for her dedication and service. Her nomination said, “Sam’s dedication is evident in the way she goes above and beyond to provide care, not only meeting expectations but doing so with kindness and attentiveness. Patients regularly experience her positive attitude and her genuine effort to brighten their day.”

Annually, National Nurses Week is held during the week in which the birthday of Florence Nightingale, May 12, founder of nursing as a modern profession, is celebrated.

The American Nurses Association, through its state and constituent member associations, advances the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting economic and general welfare, promoting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and lobbying Congress and the regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.