McKenzie Health Honors Tessa Strand and Janelly Mingucha with May 2026 DAISY and BEE Awards

May 13, 2026

Released by:  McKenzie Health

McKenzie Health Honors Tessa Strand and Janelly Mingucha with May 2026 DAISY and BEE Awards

WATFORD CITY, ND—McKenzie Health proudly recognizes two outstanding team members for their extraordinary compassion, skill, and dedication to patient care. Tessa Strand, RN, BSN – Director of Oncology, has been named the May 2026 DAISY Award recipient, and Janelly Mingucha, ED Registration, has been honored with the BEE Award.

The DAISY Award honors nurses who provide exceptional, compassionate, and skillful care, while the BEE Award celebrates staff members from all departments who go Beyond Exceptional Expectations in supporting patients, families, and coworkers.

DAISY Award Winner: Tessa Strand, RN, BSN – Director of Oncology

Strand was nominated by a patient who experienced firsthand the remarkable empathy, dedication, and leadership she brings to her role every day.

“On a personal level, Tessa has made a profound impact on my life,” the nominator wrote. “She sat with me during some of my most difficult moments—crying with me, laughing through tears, and simply being present when I needed it most. Her ability to connect on such a human level is truly special. Tessa doesn’t just care for her patients; she walks alongside them through every step of their journey.”

The nomination also highlighted Strand’s clinical expertise and the trust she builds with patients and families. “Her knowledge and expertise in oncology are exceptional. Patients and families trust her because she not only understands the clinical aspects of care but also takes the time to ensure they feel supported and heard. She approaches each situation with empathy, patience, and genuine concern. Tessa truly embodies the heart of oncology care. Her compassion, knowledge, and unwavering support make a lasting difference in the lives of so many. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.”

As Director of Oncology, Strand plays a vital role in shaping patient care while also mentoring her team. Her colleagues describe her as a steady, compassionate leader who sets the standard for excellence.

“Tessa exemplifies what it means to provide truly patient-centered care,” said Dr. Chad Pedersen, Oncologist for McKenzie Health Regional Cancer Care + Prevention. “Her compassion, clinical expertise, and leadership have a profound impact not only on her patients but on our entire organization. We are incredibly proud to have her on our team and grateful for the difference she makes every day.”

Pete Edis, CEO of McKenzie Health, echoed that sentiment. “Tessa leads with both her heart and her expertise,” said Edis. “She supports her team, advocates for her patients, and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the highest level of care. This recognition is a testament to the extraordinary nurse and leader she is.”

BEE Award Winner: Janelly Mingucha, ED Registration

Janelly Mingucha was nominated by a patient’s family member who experienced her kindness and professionalism during a visit to the Emergency Department.

“My wife had suffered a serious fall and I’d brought her here for treatment,” the nominator shared. “From my first exchange with Janelly, she was both extremely helpful and lit up the day with her ever-present smile. Her genuine concern for my wife was evident as we completed the admissions process. What a lovely and pleasant young lady who deserves to be recognized.”

As one of the first points of contact in the emergency department, Mingucha plays a critical role in ensuring patients and families feel welcomed, supported, and cared for from the moment they arrive. Her ability to combine efficiency with warmth helps create a positive experience, even in stressful circumstances.

“Janelly represents the very best of McKenzie Health,” said Pete Edis, CEO. “Her compassion, positivity, and commitment to our patients and their families set the tone for the care experience. We are grateful for the difference she makes each day and proud to recognize her with this well-deserved honor.”

McKenzie Health extends its gratitude to all nominees for their dedication to providing outstanding care to the community. Together, they exemplify the organization’s mission to deliver compassionate, high-quality health care close to home.

About the DAISY and BEE Awards:

The DAISY Award is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. Nominations may be made in writing at any one of our kiosks within McKenzie Health or online at mckenziehealth.com/daisy-award/

The BEE Award complements the DAISY Award, honoring non-nursing staff who consistently go above and beyond in support of patient and community care. If you have had an excellent experience with a McKenzie Health professional, please nominate that person for the BEE Award. Applications are available throughout McKenzie Health’s locations and online at mckenziehealth.com/bee-award/.

About McKenzie Health:  McKenzie Health is committed to quality services, continuity of care, assurance of qualified staff, and family involvement for individual patients and clients. Headquartered in Watford City, ND, the organization consists of a 22-bed Critical Access Hospital, Rural Health Clinic, Specialty Clinics, Urgent Care, Good Shepherd Home (long-term care), Horizon Assisted Living, and Connie Wold Wellness Center.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Lynn Welker-Fevold, MMHC, ACHE
307-399-4145
lwelker@mchsnd.org