September 18, 2025
HHS is proud to celebrate two of our own, Deann Sovak and Tish Garrett, who were recently recognized for their outstanding work mentoring aspiring dietitians. The Consortium of Eastern Ohio Master of Public Health Program honored them for their efforts as community preceptors, highlighting their passion for the profession and their commitment to giving back.
Both Deann, a Clinical Nutrition Manager at Youngstown St. Elizabeth Medical Center, and Tish, a Regional Clinical RD Champion, were recognized for their work with Youngstown State University. These awards are a testament to the dedication of our entire clinical team.
A Commitment to Giving Back
For Deann, receiving the "Outstanding Community Preceptor Award" is a huge honor. She sees mentoring as a valuable, two-way street where both the preceptor and the student learn and grow together. "It is a privilege to share our knowledge, skills, and experiences," she said.
Deann believes mentoring helps her team grow by encouraging them to reflect on and refine their current practices. It's a way for them to support future dietitians and strengthen their network in the community.
Deann pictured with her Outstanding Community Preceptor Award.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Tish, who received the "Regional Precepting Award," said she was deeply honored to be nominated. Looking back on her own career, she said it was humbling to be recognized as an outstanding preceptor after starting as a student herself. "Life really does come full circle!" she said.
Tish's dedication shows in her recent work with a student's senior capstone project on quality improvement. The project was so valuable that it was presented to a workgroup for future initiatives.
For Tish, this recognition proves the vital role dietitians play in shaping upcoming professionals. She is grateful for the opportunity to "teach, support, and inspire the next dietetic generation, just as my mentors once did for me." She was proud to represent HHS and BSMH.
The Bigger Picture
The hard work of both Deann and Tish shows the kind of passion our registered dietitians have. Their commitment to mentoring highlights the countless hours our RDs spend guiding students across the country.
This recognition celebrates Deann and Tish's personal achievements and demonstrates what HHS stands for: professional growth, community service, and continuous learning. They embody our "people-first" approach and prove the positive impact our team members have both in and out of the workplace. Deann and Tish are true friends to those they guide, and this recognition is a testament to the great things our RDs do.