A Parkridge Health System legend is retiring after 36 years of service to HCA and Parkridge! Jerri Underwood, ACNO/ACOO of Parkridge Valley Adult & Senior Campus, will retire at the end of February.
Parkridge staff and its patients have been blessed to have Jerri begin and end her nursing career within our system. Jerri’s professional journey began as a staff member in 1979 after she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Southern College. She found her calling and her passion and progressively advanced to medical/surgical unit manager and nursing supervisor. Jerri felt she could further enhance the area of nursing within Parkridge Health System by taking on more leadership roles. She worked hard to earn her Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from St. Francis College and advanced to executive clinical management roles such as chief nursing officer for East Ridge Hospital, CEO of Parkridge East Hospital and chief nurse executive for Parkridge Health System.
Known for her leadership and commitment to excellence in the nursing profession, Jerri has made significant contributions to the implementation of quality initiatives, strategic planning and development for the Parkridge facilities, and over the years, Jerri has volunteered her time in community health events to better the communities we serve. As a nursing advocate, she has served on numerous advisory boards for nursing programs, both at the local and state levels. This work has not gone unnoticed: Jerri was recognized for Meritorious Service by the Tennessee Hospital Association and as an Executive Nurse of Distinction Award Recipient.
“I am leaving behind so many experiences and people I have helped develop professionally and who have touched my life,” said Jerri Underwood. “I am honored to have been a member of the Parkridge family and to have helped so many patients and staff in my time there. It has been a wonderful career and now I am ready to travel and spend time with family.”
“We are all honored to have worked with Jerri and appreciate the legacy she leaves behind at Parkridge,” says Darrell Moore, President and CEO, Parkridge Health System. “Jerri’s legacy stands as a role model for future nurses within and outside Parkridge Health System.”
For more information about Parkridge Health System, visit ParkridgeHealth.com or call (423) 622-6848.