Indianapolis, Indiana – Ann M. Stevens, the total rewards director at Parkview Health, has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Ogletree Deakins Human Resources Professional of the Year Award. This recognition was presented to Stevens during an awards luncheon in Indianapolis, held in conjunction with the 61st Annual Indiana HR Conference. The award spotlights outstanding individuals who have made substantial contributions to their workplace through the effective implementation of best practices, strategic alignment, and community involvement, and Stevens is a shining example of these qualities.
Stevens’ journey to this high honor is a testament to her leadership and dedication. Since joining Parkview Health in 2000, Stevens has become an indispensable member of the team. “Ann has proven herself to be an integral part of the team at Parkview Health since joining the organization in 2000,” said Vanessa Green Sinders, the president and CEO of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. “The scope of her career experience is extensive, and her value to Parkview is evident by the fact that she’s advanced through the ranks there during a time of great challenges – and opportunities – for human resources executives everywhere.”
Parkview Health, which serves more than 1.3 million people across 20 counties in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio, is the region’s largest employer with 16,000 employees at 14 hospitals and more than 200 outpatient centers and physician offices. As the total rewards director, Stevens plays a critical role in overseeing the design and administration of Parkview’s compensation and benefits programs. This includes salary administration, job evaluation, health and welfare benefits, retirement plans, and both short- and long-term incentive programs.
In her role, Stevens has helped to position Parkview Health as a leader not only in healthcare but in creating a supportive and engaged workplace culture. Her leadership style is marked by her collaborative approach and focus on continuous improvement, both of which have contributed to the organization’s success. Stevens is deeply committed to ensuring that employees are supported not only in their professional growth but also in their overall well-being.
“Ann is extremely smart, conscientious, and thoughtful about her work,” says Hallie Custer, vice president of human resources at Parkview Health. “She is cognizant of removing barriers to make things easier, thinks of how we can put our coworkers first, and encourages her team to provide hands-on assistance to each other. This allows us to create a culture at Parkview where our coworkers feel appreciated and supported.”
Stevens’ commitment to improving employee satisfaction is reflected in her creation of several innovative benefit initiatives. One of the most unique and beloved programs she launched is the internal pet therapy program, which trains employees and their dogs to become therapeutic teams for use within the Parkview Health system. This program, offered at no charge to employees, has been highly praised for its positive impact on both the employees involved and the broader Parkview community.
“Our coworkers are well-served by Ann and the work she does to not only make sure Parkview’s benefits are implemented well and run smoothly, but to always be looking for that next opportunity to improve well-being and job satisfaction,” Custer adds. “She always has the human front of mind in her daily work in human resources.”
This forward-thinking attitude is something Stevens is known for, consistently seeking new ways to enhance the work environment for Parkview employees while also aligning human resources strategies with the overall goals of the organization. As a result, Parkview Health has cultivated a workplace culture that is not only efficient and productive but also supportive and fulfilling for all employees. Stevens’ efforts have contributed significantly to making Parkview Health a national leader in areas such as patient experience, safety, quality, and workplace culture.
The Ogletree Deakins HR Professional of the Year Award is a testament to Stevens’ ability to adapt to the changing landscape of human resources while maintaining a focus on the people she serves. The recognition is particularly meaningful because it highlights not just her professional achievements but also her ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on her community and within her organization. The award is presented annually to an HR leader who has demonstrated excellence in their field through their leadership, creativity, and strategic impact.
“Ann’s leadership in human resources is a model for others to follow,” says Sinders. “Her approach to human resources is comprehensive, thoughtful, and community-oriented, which has helped Parkview Health continue to thrive in a competitive industry.”
As Stevens continues to lead efforts to enhance the employee experience at Parkview Health, her work remains rooted in a philosophy that puts people first. She understands the vital role that human resources plays in creating a positive and productive environment, and her focus on removing barriers and fostering collaboration has made her a respected leader in her field.
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For Parkview Health, Stevens’ contributions are invaluable, and this award serves as a well-deserved acknowledgment of her outstanding work in human resources. As she looks toward the future, Stevens will undoubtedly continue to shape the culture of her organization and set new standards for excellence in the field of human resources.
In addition to her impressive work at Parkview Health, Stevens is a recognized figure in her community, demonstrating how human resources can serve not just as a function within a company, but as a critical tool for societal improvement. Her influence goes beyond her immediate work environment, as she continues to inspire and lead those around her.
Stevens’ recognition as HR Professional of the Year is a celebration not only of her career achievements but also of her deep commitment to improving the lives of the employees she serves. Through her leadership, Parkview Health continues to be an organization that prioritizes the well-being of its team members, setting the stage for future success in healthcare and human resources alike.
