Published on January 22, 2025
Paul McClellan: Fall 2024 Vicki M. Stogsdill Nursing Award Winner

At Owensboro Health, we take pride in honoring those who make a real difference in healthcare. This semester, Paul McClellan has been named the recipient of the Vicki M. Stogsdill Nursing Award. His story is one of resilience, compassion and purpose.
Paul’s journey into nursing began with a personal challenge—his diagnosis of Type 1 Diabetes. “At the time, I didn’t realize it wasn’t a death sentence but more of a lifestyle change,” Paul shared. That realization didn’t come easily. Early experiences with healthcare professionals left him feeling unseen and unsupported. Those moments shaped his future. “After that impressionable experience, I decided to pursue a career in nursing. My goal has always been to treat each patient with kindness, compassion and empathy—exactly how I wish my care had been back then.”
Paul has found his calling in the Critical Care Unit, a place where his skills and empathy have the greatest impact. “Being there for patients during their most critical moments is deeply fulfilling. It’s a role I’m honored to have,” he said.
Winning the Vicki M. Stogsdill Nursing Award is a milestone in Paul’s career. It’s a recognition of his dedication to learning, growing and making a difference. “This award means the world to me. It will help me continue to advance my education and deepen my commitment to nursing. Being the December 2024 recipient is truly humbling.”
Paul’s story reminds us why the Stogsdill Award exists: to celebrate those who lead with their hearts and make healthcare better for everyone.
At Owensboro Health, we’re proud to support nurses like Paul, who bring care and compassion to every patient they meet. Join us in congratulating him on this well-deserved honor. And if you’re inspired to join our mission of care and community, explore opportunities to make your mark at Owensboro Health. Together we can build a healthier future.
Learn more about the Vicki M. Stogsdill Nursing Award and the application process.
Find more information about the BSN program.
About Owensboro Health
Owensboro Health is a nonprofit health system with a mission to heal the sick and to improve the health of the communities it serves in Kentucky and Indiana. The system includes Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, nationally recognized for design, architecture and engineering; Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital; Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center; the Owensboro Health Medical Group comprised of over 350 providers at more than 30 locations; three outpatient Healthplex facilities, a certified medical fitness facility, the Healthpark; a weight management program, and the Mitchell Memorial Cancer Center.
On average each year, we have more than 19,000 inpatient admissions, deliver 2,000 babies and provide the region’s only Level III NICU. Owensboro Health physicians perform nearly 33,000 surgical procedures, including nearly 150 open-heart surgeries. Our physicians and staff have 90,000 Emergency Department visits and more than 1.25 million outpatient visits annually. Visit our home page for more information.