Pope used a collaborative approach to connect security and clinical care, leading innovative initiatives such as workplace violence prevention, emergency preparedness, and staff education to improve the healthcare experience.

Jennifer Dunscomb, MSN, RN, CNS, CPHQ Vice President of System Quality, Safety, and Experience, said, “Under Tony Pope’s visionary leadership, our hospital has set a new benchmark for workplace violence prevention, transitioning from a reactive posture to a proactive, high-reliability model. Tony’s data-driven, strategic approach empowered the organization to identify, mitigate, and neutralize threats with unprecedented efficacy. Notably, he bridged the gap between executive governance and front-line safety, elevating Board awareness to full, active support for critical resources. Tony has fundamentally transformed our culture into one of heightened vigilance and foresight. The results are compelling: a 54% reduction in workplace violence events with consistent year-over-year improvement, over $69,000 saved in workforce injuries, and 150+ team members trained annually in specialized care, resulting in a profoundly safer environment for both staff and patients.”

IHA President Scott B. Tittle stated, “Tony has earned the respect of colleagues throughout Indiana and across the healthcare field through a career defined by service, leadership and an unwavering commitment to others. His work has demonstrated that every member of the healthcare team plays an important role in caring for patients and supporting those who provide care. Tony's example has inspired fellow professionals and improved the healthcare experience for countless individuals, making him a highly deserving recipient of the Douglas J. Leonard Indiana Caregiver of the Year Award.”