For the 14th year, Stillwater Medical has been named one of the Best Places to Work by Modern Healthcare, a trusted news organization that identifies and recognizes outstanding employers in the healthcare industry nationwide. Stillwater Medical is one of few organizations in the nation – and the first in Oklahoma – to receive the award for 14 consecutive years.
At the heart of Stillwater Medical’s success is a simple but powerful belief: when you care for your people, they care for the community.
“We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition for the 14th year,” said Denise Webber, CEO of Stillwater Medical. “It’s more than an award—it’s a reflection of the environment our employees create every day. Our people are the reason Stillwater Medical is trusted by so many. They show up with heart, skill and purpose, remaining focused on providing a superior patient experience.”
Webber emphasized that being named a Best Place to Work doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, listening and a commitment to continuous improvement. From employee wellness programs to leadership development, Stillwater Medical is invested in every layer of its workforce.
Brad Horst, vice president of human resources, says the organization takes employee feedback seriously—and uses it to grow stronger each year.
“We ask, we listen and we act,” said Horst. “Whether it’s making schedules more flexible, improving communication across departments, or creating opportunities for advancement, we want our employees to feel heard and supported.”
Horst also pointed to the importance of Stillwater Medical employees finding purpose in their work, valuing the overall benefits plan, as well as an overwhelming agreement about enjoying their coworkers as key factors in employee engagement.
“We know healthcare is demanding,” he said. “But when employees are highly engaged, they are not only more likely to stay but also to have a positive impact on our patients. That’s how our people strategy aligns with our mission.”
For employees like Dee Grimmet, a registered nurse in the Intensive Care Unit, the culture at Stillwater Medical is something you feel the moment you walk in the door.
“I’ve worked at places where you’re just a number,” said Grimmet. “But here, you’re seen. You’re supported. You’re encouraged to grow—not just as a professional, but as a person.”
Grimmet, who joined Stillwater Medical 23 years ago, says it was the team culture and leadership accessibility that made the biggest impression.
Stillwater Medical’s impact goes beyond the hospital walls. The organization plays a vital role in the community—supporting local schools, sponsoring events and giving back through employee-led volunteer efforts. This is all a part of its role as a not-for-profit, public trust health system committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to north-central Oklahoma.
While the recognition is exciting, leadership at Stillwater Medical see it as motivation—not simply validation.
“Our leadership team is constantly asking, ‘How can we do better?'” said Horst. “The goal is to make this a place where people want to have a career, to grow, and to serve the community. That’s what drives us all.”
