Fall/Winter 2025 5 Meet our 2025 Nursing Excellence Award winner, Pam Welch! Congratulations to Yankton Medical Clinic’s 2025 Nursing Excellence Award winner, Pam Welch. Welch has been a valued member of Yankton Medical Clinic for 21 years. Throughout that time, she has exemplified what it means to be a dedicated, compassionate and skilled nurse. Welch’s commitment to her patients is unwavering, and she consistently demonstrates a depth of knowledge that makes her a trusted resource for both colleagues and patients alike. Welch’s willingness to support and guide fellow nurses speaks volumes about her leadership and team spirit. Joining in to celebrate Welch on this well-deserved recognition were Tara Mitchell, Director of Nursing; Dr. Michael Pietila, Pulmonology; Linda Reese, PA-C, Pulmonology; and Becky McManus, CEO. Humanism in medicine award given Yankton Medical Clinic’s Byron Nielsen, MD, Nephrologist, has been selected as the 2025 Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award from the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota. This award is presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, which has taken a leadership role in developing the concept of humanism in medicine—promoting integrity, excellence, compassion, altruism, respect, empathy and service in medical students and practicing physicians. Dr. Nielsen was selected with input from medical students and practicing physicians, and this honor is a testament to his character and ideals that mirror those of the Arnold P. Gold Foundation. Linda Reese, MPAS, PA-C, of Yankton Medical Clinic (YMC), has been honored as the 2025 South Dakota Quitline Referral Champion for referring the most patients to the South Dakota Quitline in 2024. This prestigious award recognizes providers for their exceptional commitment to helping patients quit tobacco and improve their health, making a positive impact on both individuals and communities. Reese was acknowledged for her proactive approach in assisting patients to take the first step toward a tobacco-free life. Her efforts are instrumental in reducing tobacco use in the region. As a member of YMC’s pulmonary team, Reese is recognized as one of the top resources in the area for smoking cessation and for her ability to see patients in a timely manner. Patients are encouraged to seek her expertise for personalized support in their journey to quit. Kaitlyn Ashley, with the South Dakota Tobacco Cessation & Quitline, presents Linda Reese, PA-C, pulmonology, Yankton Medical Clinic, with her 2025 Champion award. Need help quitting? To schedule an appointment with Linda Reese, call 605-665-1152. 2025 SOUTH DAKOTA QUITLINE REFERRAL CHAMPION Reese wins award Byron Nielsen, MD
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