Flu Vaccines 2026: Onsite Flu Fairs Begin Sept. 15

All employees are required to complete the annual influenza vaccination process and receive their flu vaccine by Oct. 23, 2026.

To get started you must complete the electronic influenza consent form on Enterprise Health Portal by Sept. 15. Then, attend one of the various onsite flu fairs or upload your flu vaccine you received from a non-Cook Children's provider, such as a physician's office or pharmacy, through the My Medical tab in the Enterprise Health Employee Portal.

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn more about flu fairs and other important information including exemptions, compliance and how to pick up flu vaccines for department events.

Get Ready for Year-End P&D Conversations

Your manager will be reaching out to schedule performance conversations during September as we enter the home stretch of our year-end Performance & Development activities.

These one-on-one sessions provide you and your manager with a scheduled block of time to discuss your performance over the past year, paving the way for continued improvement and professional development in the coming year. The goal is to provide constructive feedback that empowers everyone to thrive and flourish in their careers.

A few tips for a productive conversation: 

• Prepare: Take time beforehand to reflect on your achievements, the Cook Children’s values you demonstrated, and any work challenges you navigated since the start of the performance year on Oct. 1, 2025.

• Listen actively to your manager’s feedback and suggestions.

• Ask questions if you need clarification.

• Share your honest perspective. Your input can connect the dots to help your manager make specific and impactful recommendations. 

Learn more at the P&D page on CookNet. 

Watch Now: A Conversation with Matthew Carroll at the Summer 2026 Town Hall

If you were unable to attend the Aug. 13 Town Hall or would like to revisit the topics discussed, recordings of individual segments will be available to watch on demand over the next few newsletters. 

This featured segment includes a conversation with our new Chief Quality Officer, Matthew Carroll, M.D., MHA, MSHQS about the high-quality care we strive for at Cook Children's. 

Watch the segment to revisit these important Town Hall highlights.

NFL Kickoff: Jersey Days

Wear your favorite NFL jersey on Sept. 10-13 to kick off the upcoming football season! Show off your football pride and send a photo to team.experience@cookchildrens.org.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website. 

Good afternoon Prosper family,

We have made it through back-to-school time and headed into cooler weather, we hope😊. Thank you to all of you who participated in the employee survey. We look forward to hearing your feedback and getting better together. Hopefully you got to enjoy Well-being Month and were able to find some tips to keeping yourself healthy. We are headed into football season and fall -- yay for pumpkins!

Thank you for all you do, it takes a village to take care of the community, and we are so proud each of you are on the team.

Your Prosper Leadership Team

Cross Country Cooling

We are proud to support our local student-athletes right here in Prosper! Cook Children’s recently donated cooling towels and essential first aid supplies to the Prosper Eagles Cross Country team as they prepare for their upcoming season. The team shared the photo below, expressing their appreciation for our investment in keeping young runners cool, safe and ready to compete. Thank you to our Prosper team members for continuing to champion our community partnerships outside our Medical Center walls.

Sent with Care: Share Your Nursing Story

In celebration of Pediatric Nurses Week this October, Cook Children’s invites you to participate in Sent with Care, a unique storytelling project designed to highlight the compassion, connection and meaningful moments that shape nursing across our organization. Inspired by the "Dear Data" project, this storytelling project encourages nurses to track a meaningful or challenging moment from everyday practice and transform it into a simple, hand-drawn postcard. No artistic talent is required. This project relies solely on your curiosity, reflection and willingness to share your unique perspective. The blank side of the postcard serves as your canvas, while the reverse side allows you to explain the personal significance of your artwork.

How to participate:

• Gather materials: Pick up a blank postcard, instructions and colored pencils from the gray baskets in any nurse breakroom.
• Return artwork: Drop your completed postcard into the large blue basket at the first-floor information desk by Sept. 30.

Participating nurses will have the opportunity to showcase their work at the Art Tooth gallery in the South Main Micro Park this October.

Click here for topic ideas, visual examples and full project details.

Behavioral Health Champion of the Month

Please join us in congratulating Amina Morehead, a PCT on 4 Main, on being named our Behavioral Health Champion of the Month. She consistently demonstrates remarkable teamwork and collaboration alongside exceptional skill in de-escalation, reflecting a profound dedication to patient safety. We are incredibly grateful for her unwavering commitment and compassionate approach to the care of our behavioral health population.

Prosper Halloween

Your department is invited to participate in our Prosper Halloween event. Fill out and return the application below by Friday, Oct. 16.

NFL Kickoff: Jersey Days

Wear your favorite NFL jersey on Sept. 10-13 to kick off the upcoming football season! Show off your football pride and send a photo to team.experience@cookchildrens.org.

In Case You Missed It

Nursing Leadership Academy

Advance your nursing career through Cook Children's Nursing Leadership Academy. Join this six-month program to enhance your leadership career skills. Applicants are required to have enrolled in or completed a Professional Development Program, have a BSN or higher nursing degree, and a minimum of two years of experience working at Cook Children's Medical Center. Applications are open until Sept. 30, 2026, for the January 2027 Cohort. There will be two opportunities to join a Q&A session, on Sept. 3 or Sept. 15, via Teams.

Sepsis Day Escape Room

World Sepsis Day is coming on Sept. 13. Join us for an interactive Sepsis Escape Room on the 5th floor between Sept. 9 and 11. Details are in the image below. If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Miller.

Sepsis Conference 2026

Join us for this year's Sepsis conference, on Oct. 22 at the Hurst Conference Center. If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Miller.

Erase Kid Cancer Dress Up Calendar

Volunteer Opportunities

Good afternoon volunteers!

This is a reminder that we have some great opportunities to give back this fall. Please click the link here to see the available options and times. Once you sign up, a coordinator will be in touch with more information about the event.

There is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about gun safety, safe sleep or any of our other injury prevention topic areas. We have streamlined the sign-up process with Signup Genius so you can see what is available in real time. If you have any questions regarding any of the events listed, please contact Jillian Mitchell, CPST or anyone on the community health team. As always, we appreciate your time and passion for educating families to keep children safe.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Final Day to Complete the Your Voice Matters Survey: Open now through 11:59 p.m.

This is the last day to complete the Your Voice Matters Survey, closing at 11:59 p.m. tonight. We are currently at 71% for employee participation, but our goal is to reach more than 75%. It is important for us to hear from you about your work experience. Your survey input helps to drive real improvements that enhance our team, patient and safety/quality experiences at Cook Children’s.

It’s easy to take the survey: See the email you received from Press Ganey today – or click here to take the survey. You can also go to the CookNet homepage scroll and click the banner to go directly to the survey. Use your employee identification number as your password.

Tip: add a leading zero(s) if your identification number is fewer than six digits. (For example: 9999 = 009999.)

Questions about the Your Voice Matters survey? Visit the CookNet survey page or email teamexperience@cookchildrens.org.

TB Questionnaire and Respiratory Mask Fit Requirements

Requirement reminders for Performance & Development: Managers, as you complete Performance & Development (P&D) evaluations, please verify that employees are compliant with both the annual Tuberculosis (TB) Questionnaire requirement by asking them to complete the form in Enterprise Health and any required Respiratory Mask Fit Testing obligations.

TB Questionnaires: Employees who completed the TB Questionnaire during the August 2025 campaign remain current in the Enterprise Health portal until the day after the annual due date of Sept. 14, 2026. Employees who have completed the TB Questionnaire during the current campaign will remain current until the day after Sept. 14, 2027.

Respiratory Mask Fit Testing: Employees who are currently late on their required Respiratory Mask Fit testing have been granted a final extension and must complete the requirement by Dec. 11, 2026. Please schedule your Respiratory Mask Fit test with Occupational Health as soon as possible. Appointments are filling up fast.

Please click here for more information about actions required. Thank you for your partnership in maintaining a safe, healthy, and compliant environment for our patients, families, and team members.

Building Our Future: Celebrating West Tower Milestones and What to Expect Next

Construction across the Fort Worth campus continues to move forward, and we're beginning to reach important milestones. From completing major infrastructure work to progress on the future West Tower, each step brings us closer to expanding capacity and creating more space for the children and families we serve.

Take a look at the latest construction updates, key milestones, upcoming projects and what team members can expect next.

Click here to learn more about what's happening across the Medical Center-Fort Worth campus and view drone footage of the West Tower construction site!

Reminder about Parking: 8th and Terrell Parking Garage is Closed

The 8th and Terrell Parking Garage is closed completely for parking. The sidewalk along Terrell Avenue between 8^th and 7^th avenues is closed to pedestrians.

If you previously parked in this garage, please check for an email sent from Parking Services to see your new parking assignment. You may NOT park in other lots or garages, per policy MC 252.

Please contact Parking Services by phone at 682-885-7492 or by email ParkingServices@cookchildrens.orgwith questions.

Watch Now: Merridth Simpson's Summer 2026 Town Hall Benefits and HR Updates

If you were unable to attend the Aug. 13 Town Hall or would like to revisit the topics discussed, recordings of individual segments will be available to watch on demand over the next few newsletters.

This featured segment includes updates from Merridth Simpson, SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer about our benefit plans starting in October, important Human Resources reminders and news about Care Share.

Watch the segment to revisit these important Town Hall highlights.

Enter to Win Diamond Heart Pendant courtesy of Collections Fine Jewelry

One Cook Children’s employee will win a stunning piece of fine jewelry to wear or share with a loved one. Created by Collections Fine Jewelry, this diamond and 14kt white gold pendant was designed to honor our health care heroes who give their hearts to Cook Children's patients every day.

Raffle tickets are available to Cook Children's employees only and are available for $10 each or three for $25. Raffle tickets may be purchased online via the QR code above or in person at Camelot Light Court throughout September. A drawing will be held on Oct. 5, 2026, to choose a winner.

For more than 70 years, Jewel Charity Members have raised essential funds to support uncompensated care at Cook Children's. Funds raised through this exclusive raffle will directly support the most immediate needs of our patients and their families!

Click here to purchase raffle tickets or visit jewelcharity.org to learn more about Jewel Charity's mission.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Occupational Health is Now Team Health

We care about you! As our organization continues to grow and evolve, so does our commitment to supporting the health, safety, and well-being of every employee across the Cook Children's system. To better reflect that commitment and the breadth of services we provide, Occupational Health Services will now be known as Team Health. While the name is changing, our mission remains the same: providing exceptional care and support to every team member every day. The new name reflects a broader vision, one that encompasses the comprehensive health needs of our workforce while emphasizing that every employee is an important part of the Cook Children's family.

Team Health will continue to provide essential services such as work injury and illness management, immunizations, workers' compensation support, return-to-work evaluations, TB testing, respiratory mask fit testing, hazardous material exposure evaluations, workplace accommodations, and ergonomic services. As we move forward, we are always looking at ways we can expand services and enhance access across the Cook Children's system, ensuring that more team members can easily receive the occupational health support they need.

Adding to this exciting new chapter, we welcome a Board-Certified Occupational and Environmental Medicine Physician, Foster Lerner, D.O. who will join the Team Health program on Sept. 1. This addition brings nationally recognized expertise to our organization and further strengthens our ability to provide high-quality occupational health care, consultation, and guidance to employees throughout the system.

Please read more on Connect.

If you have any questions, please contact Kim Cummings, Vice President, Human Resources Operations and Talent Management.

8th and Terrell Parking Garage will be Fully Inaccessible to All Staff, Sept. 1

Starting Tuesday, Sept. 1, the 8^th and Terrell Parking Garage at Medical Center-Fort Worth will be fully inaccessible to all staff due to construction. The sidewalk along Terrell Avenue between 8^th and 7^th avenues will close to pedestrians.

Employees who normally park in this garage have been assigned a new parking lot in one of several exterior lots. Cook Children’s will be offering a Staff Shuttle to help employees get to work safely and on time. The shuttles are white, 25-passenger vans. They will complete a loop to the lots and drop off passengers in front of the Medical Center-Fort Worth. This shuttle is not available to patient families or visitors.

Employees who park in the 8^th and Terrell garage should check their email for a message from Parking Services regarding their new parking location. Please contact ParkingServices@cookchildrens.org with questions. In addition, any employees that have not registered their vehicles with Parking Services must do so.

Cook Children's Alliance and Urgent Care Alliance Closed Due to Power Outage

Due to the storm, Cook Children’s Pediatric Specialties (Alliance), Cook Children's Urgent Care (Alliance) and the Outpatient Lab have a power outage and are closed at this time.

Please click here to see updates on when the location will be reopened.

Watch Now: Amy Knight's Summer 2026 Town Hall Marketing and Communications Updates

If you were unable to attend the Aug. 13 Town Hall or would like to revisit the topics discussed, recordings of individual segments will be available to watch on demand over the next few newsletters. Today's segment includes updates from Amy Knight, Chief Administration Officer.

This featured segment includes updates about the Marketing and Communication team and the new multi-year Journey campaign, designed to extend our Cook Children's brand across the region, and two newly launched podcasts, For Kids' Sake and Por Su Bienestar.

Watch the segment to learn more about these Marketing and Communication efforts and what is next on these important Town Hall highlights.

Give to Cook Children’s this North Texas Giving Day

Early Giving for North Texas Giving Day Is Open. North Texas Giving Day is Sept. 17, but the giving (and the impact) starts right now.

Help us spread the word and make an impact for patients and families across our system.

Click here to donate. When you give, your gift will be DOUBLED thanks to Stonelake Capital Partners LLC for their generous one-for-one match up to $20,000.

Follow @CookChildrensHealthFoundation on Facebook and Instagram for updates. Re-share posts, tag a friend and help us have a record-breaking year.

Thank you for helping us maximize this opportunity for more hope, healing and magic under our blue peaks.

Register for Brain Health Symposium

Join the University of Texas at Arlington and Cook Children's in advancing brain health research across the lifespan! The symposium will take place at 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 10 and Sept. 11, at UT Arlington and the Hochberger Auditorium respectively.

For the full agenda and registration for the Sept. 10 event at UT Arlington, click here. For the full agenda and registration for the Sept. 11 event at the Hochberger Auditorium, click here

There is still time to submit your abstracts. The deadline to submit is Aug. 28. Click here to submit an abstract.

Retirements

Join us in congratulating staff members who are retiring from Cook Children's this summer:

• Renee Lavelle, Speech Pathologist, is retiring after 25 years of service.
• Lori Goosen, HR Professional Services Consultant, is retiring after 40 years of service. Please join us for a retirement celebration on Tuesday, Sept. 29 in the Rosedale Office Building in room 1102A from 3-5 p.m.

To read more about Renee and Lori, along with other recent retirements, please visit the Retirement CookNet page.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Good afternoon Prosper family,

Time really flies! We hope you had a great Well-Being Month and enjoyed jumping into the activities. Don't forget to send your Bingo cards to Teamexperience@cookchildrens.org by Sept. 4. Our team survey is also coming to an end on Sept. 1—please take a few moments to share your thoughts so we can make sure you have everything you need to succeed.

Huge congratulations to all our Prosper team members celebrated this week during the Peak Performer and DAISY awards! We're so proud of your hard work.

Here’s to cooler fall weather and getting outside to enjoy the season!

Thank you for all you do,

Your Prosper Leadership Team

Parking Reminder: Front Spaces Intended for Patient Families

In our effort to make sure our patients and their families can park up front; the GREEN areas of the parking map below indicate where employees should be parking. Please keep the parking spots closest to the buildings available for our patients and families. Thank you for all you do to take care of our families. Continued non-compliance could lead to further disciplinary steps.

2026 Your Voice Matters System Survey Last Week

If you haven't already, please take a few minutes to help shape your team, Prosper and CCHCS experience. Your voice matters!

A link was sent to your email from “Press Ganey on behalf of Cook Children’s Healthcare System noreply@hxplatform.pressganey.com.”

For those who have completed it – Thank You!

North Central Texas Trauma Regional Advisory Council (NCTTRAC) Pediatric Committee Co-Chair

Kelly Stevens, Manager, Trauma Program & Injury Prevention, has been appointed as the North Central Texas Trauma Regional Advisory Council (NCTTRAC) Pediatric Committee Co-Chair. Beginning in September, Kelly will work toward improving emergency, trauma and critical care services for children across the North Central Texas trauma service area. Please join us in congratulating Kelly on this well-deserved recognition and opportunity!

Peak Performers

Congratulations to our Peak Performers selected for their above and beyond work in patient, team and safety/quality experiences!

Hannah Miller, RN, Quality Improvement

Alvin Palmer, Manager, Food Services

Logan Allen, RN, Staff DU, NICU

Tracy Thomas, Manager, Respiratory Therapy

Leonard Huynh, Pharmacy Tech 1, Retail

Daisy Award Winner

We are proud to announce that Dani Miller, RN, Staff DU of our NICU unit, is our newest DAISY Award recipient. The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award for Extraordinary Nurses is an international recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide every day. One notable mention from a patient family showcases exactly how Dani embodies this spirit. “When I try to put in words what my nurse did for me, I can’t. You see, I had depression and I shut down from my babies. My nurse made sure that she made time for me and talked to me about my worries and fears. When I stayed behind the curtain in my room, she would keep checking in with me to be sure I was okay, and she wouldn’t take no for an answer. I don’t ever tell people I need help, and I don’t have much family support. I’ve always been taught that I need to do everything myself. I didn’t know that I could trust someone to help me. She helped me feel more confident with my babies. She helped me set a plan. She even supported me bringing my older daughter to visit to bond with the babies as well. She seems to really care. I am going to be going home soon with my babies, but I will never forget her. She was an angel, and I was so lucky to have her as a nurse.”

Beat the Heat

Thank you to everyone who was able to join us for some shaved ice at our employee Beat the Heat event to celebrate Well-being Month!

Nursing Leadership Academy

Advance your nursing career through Cook Children's Nursing Leadership Academy. Join this six-month program to enhance your leadership career skills. Applicants are required to have enrolled in or completed a Professional Development Program, have a BSN or higher nursing degree, and a minimum of two years of experience working at Cook Children's Medical Center. Applications are open until Sept. 30, 2026, for the January 2027 Cohort. There will be two opportunities to join a Q&A session, on Sept. 3 or Sept. 15, via Teams.

Fresh Fruit Break

Keep an eye out, on Sept. 2, the mobile fruit cart will be stopping by your area between 6:30 - 9 a.m.!

Sepsis Day Escape Room

World Sepsis Day is coming on Sept. 13. Join us for an interactive Sepsis Escape Room on the 5th floor between Sept. 9 and 11. Details are in the image below. If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Miller.

Sepsis Conference 2026

Join us for this year's Sepsis conference, on Oct. 22 at the Hurst Conference Center. If you have any questions, please contact Hannah Miller.

Erase Kid Cancer Dress Up Calendar

Kick Off Football Season in Style

Are you ready for some football? To celebrate the start of the college football season, employees are invited to wear their favorite college football team jersey to work from Thursday, Aug. 27 through Sunday, Aug. 30. 

Show off your team spirit and get ready for a great season!

In Case You Missed It

2026 Nursing Excellence Conference

Join us for the 4^th Annual Nursing Excellence Conference - Beyond the Horizon.

Inspiring innovation and excellence in pediatric nursing through

• Innovative presentations
• Poster showcase
• Networking
• Continuing education credits

Open to nurses, students and healthcare professionals. In-person and virtual attendance options available.

Volunteer Opportunities

Good afternoon volunteers!

This is a reminder that we still have some great opportunities to give back this summer. Please click the link here to see the available options and times. Once you sign up, a coordinator will be in touch with more information about the event.

There is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about gun safety, safe sleep or any of our other injury prevention topic areas. We have streamlined the sign-up process with Signup Genius so you can see what is available in real time. If you have any questions regarding any of the events listed, please contact Jillian Mitchell, CPST or anyone on the community health team. As always, we appreciate your time and passion for educating families to keep children safe.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Labor Day Holiday Does Not Change Payroll Deadlines

As the Labor Day holiday approaches, team members and leaders are reminded that payroll processing deadlines remain unchanged. To ensure employees are paid accurately and on time, all payroll-related submissions, approvals and corrections must be completed by the established deadlines on Payroll Monday, Sept. 7.

Payroll Monday Deadlines: Sept. 7, 2026

10 a.m.

• All adjustment forms, including TCA, PCA and PCX forms, must be submitted.

Noon

• All pending corrections submitted directly through UKG must be reviewed and approved or refused.
• Deadline for timecard approval.

Managers should note that timecards cannot be signed off if they contain pending transactions that have not been reviewed, approved or refused. Any transactions still pending in UKG at noon on Payroll Monday will be denied. Corrections for denied transactions must be submitted using a PCA form and will be processed in the next payroll cycle.

On-demand payments are not issued for late or unapproved transactions in UKG.

Helpful Reminders

To help ensure accurate payroll processing:

• Verify that employee work schedules have been entered in UKG. PTO, jury duty and bereavement requests submitted without a work schedule may result in zero hours being paid.
• Approve exempt employee timecards and PTO requests as early as possible.
• Employees should review their timecards weekly to ensure accuracy.
• Nonexempt employees should enter missed punches as soon as they occur to allow time for review and approval before payroll deadlines.

Meeting these deadlines will help ensure timely and accurate payroll processing during the holiday period.

If you have any questions, please email CPayroll@cookchildrens.org

Last Week to Complete the Your Voice Matters Survey: Open through Sept. 1

This is the last week to complete the Your Voice Matters Survey, closing on Sept. 1. We are currently at 62% of employee participation, but our goal is to reach more than 75% completion. It is important for us to hear from you about your work experience. Your survey input helps to drive real improvements that enhance our team, patient and safety/quality experiences at Cook Children’s.

It’s easy to take the survey: See the email you received from Press Ganey today – or click here to take the survey. You can also go to the CookNet homepage scroll and click the banner to go directly to the survey. Use your employee identification number as your password. Tip: add a leading zero(s) if your identification number is fewer than six digits. (For example: 9999 = 009999.)

Questions about the Your Voice Matters survey? Visit the CookNet survey page or email teamexperience@cookchildrens.org.

Watch Now: Stephen Kimmel's Summer 2026 Town Hall Financial Update

If you were unable to attend the Aug. 13 Town Hall or would like to revisit the topics discussed, recordings of individual segments will be available to watch on demand over the next few newsletters. We'll be sharing these highlights in upcoming editions of the Connect Newsletter, beginning with the opening portion of the program.

This featured segment includes President and CEO Rick W. Merrill's opening remarks, a reflection from Jennifer Hayes, Director of Spiritual Care, and an important financial update from Stephen Kimmel, Executive Vice President, System Finance. Stephen shares insights on Cook Children's financial performance and the health care environment.

Watch the segment to hear Stephen's financial update and revisit these important Town Hall highlights.

Welcome Pat Furr, CTO

Please join us in welcoming Pat Furr, MBA, CBCP, to Cook Children’s as our new Chief Technology Officer.

Pat is a proven technology leader with deep experience in transformation, cybersecurity, infrastructure modernization, and digital innovation across health care and Fortune 500 organizations. More importantly, he is a leader who understands that the true value of technology lies in empowering caregivers and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

“I’m excited to join Cook Children’s and lead technology forward - connecting innovation and purpose to advance our mission and transform care for every child and family we serve," Pat said.

Teresa Tonthat, Chief Digital & Information Officer, adds, “As we continue advancing the health and well-being of every child, Pat will help create seamless, connected experiences that better support our caregivers and the children and families who rely on us.”

Kick Off Football Season in Style

Are you ready for some football? To celebrate the start of the college football season, employees are invited to wear their favorite college football team jersey to work from Thursday, Aug. 27 through Sunday, Aug. 30.

Show off your team spirit and get ready for a great season!

Registration Is Still Open for Drug Diversion Symposium on Friday

Registration is still open for the 2026 Drug Diversion Symposium on Friday, August 28. Seats remain available for both the Early Morning Session (6:30 to 7:30 a.m.) and the Full-Day Symposium (8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

Please note that seating in Hochberger Auditorium will be available a first-come, first-served basis. An overflow room will be available in Pavilion 1 for additional attendees. Breakfast will be provided for all attendees, and lunch will be available for participants attending the full-day symposium.

Registration links:

• Early Morning Session
• Full-Day Symposium

Please click here to watch a video to learn more about the symposium and what to expect.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Overnight AT&T Fiber Maintenance at Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth for Aug. 21

AT&T will conduct fiber maintenance serving Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth from midnight to 4 a.m. Friday, Aug. 21.

During the maintenance window, a limited number of communications services may experience temporary interruptions. The work is being performed overnight to minimize disruption to hospital operations.

Services That May Be Impacted

• Inbound fax services
• Most inbound external phone calls (excluding designated critical numbers)
• Cellular calling in basements, stairwells and elevators
  • Team members who need to make calls in these areas should use Wi-Fi Calling.
• Department radios used by:
  • Facilities
  • Security
  • Operating Room
  • Emergency Department
  • Parking
• SIM Lab services

Services That Will Remain Available

• Internal five-digit dialing
• Outbound phone calls
• Outbound faxing to the public

A campuswide pop-up notification will be sent approximately 10 minutes before maintenance begins as a reminder.

If you have questions or concerns, contact the Service Desk at ext. 5-7999.

Building Psychological Safety Together: A Message from Our Leaders

Psychological safety shapes how we work together every day. It is key to collaboration, innovation, learning and exceptional patient care. Now that over 10,000 employees have completed the Psychological Safety 2026 System Competency in ULearn, we hope you will be more aware of interactions within our teams and speak up when it may be lacking.

As we continue this important journey, we thought it would be valuable to hear perspectives from some of our executive leaders. Matthew Carroll, M.D., Chief Quality Officer, shares:

“Psychological safety is the foundation of patient safety. When every member of the care team feels safe to ask questions, raise concerns, report mistakes, and respectfully challenge the status quo without fear, we create an environment where learning replaces silence, collaboration replaces hierarchy, and risks are identified before they become harm," he said. "A culture where every voice is valued is a culture where every patient is safer, every team is stronger, and excellence in care can thrive.”

Please click here for more information and a link to watch a Leader Message on Psychological Safety to hear additional leaders from across our organization share what psychological safety means to them and why it matters.

Breastfeeding Awareness Month

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month and included in our benefits are various maternity and parental related support.

On the right is a list of Lactation Rooms available for employees to utilize across the system.

Cook Children’s also has a virtual lactation program available for you. This program allows moms to schedule a virtual consultation with a lactation consultant in real time. Connect with a private and secure video from your home laptop, tablet or mobile device.

After your video visit, the summary and care instructions will be available to you via Cook Children’s secure patient portal website. Please know there is a cost associated with this program and insurance will not cover this cost. To see reimbursement options, visit the Maternity Booklet on SharePoint.

If you are pregnant or preparing for motherhood, we have an Early Steps Maternity Program with Quantum Health available for you. This program provides extra support and resources focusing on you and your baby.

For more information about maternity benefits, including parental leave policies, visit Maternity on the Occupational Health SharePoint page.

Well-being Month: Caring for You

August is Well-Being Month, and there’s still plenty of time to participate! Take a moment to focus on your well-being and check out these upcoming opportunities:

Beat the Heat Treat

Wednesday, Aug. 26
1:30–3:30 p.m. at the 750 Building
2-4 p.m. at the Calmont Office Building
Funds provided for all off-site and fully remote teams. Learn more here.

Grand Rounds with the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation
Join us Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 8–9 a.m. as CMO Dr. Stef Simmons from the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes' Foundation will speak on the national movement for the healthcare workforce’s professional wellbeing.

There’s Still Time to Register for a Self-Care Class!
Choose from two upcoming opportunities to pause, recharge and invest in your well-being:

• Gratitude is a Gift – In person at the Prosper Campus on Thursday, Aug. 27
• Vitamin BE: Using Mindfulness and Responding to the Present Moment – Virtual on Friday, Aug. 28, from 11 a.m.–noon

Well-bingo
Find a work buddy or invite your team to join the fun with individual or team Well-Bingo during Well-being Month! Complete a variety of well-being activities, explore new ways to support your personal well-being, and earn a chance to win a gift card.

Don’t let Well-Being Month pass you by! Visit the Well-Being Month page to learn more about these opportunities and other resources available to support your well-being.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Good afternoon Prosper family,

The triple digits are still here, please be mindful of the heat and how dangerous it can be. Hydrate, keep cool and lather up with the sunscreen. We have seen the numbers jump here at Prosper with the kiddos only back to school for a couple weeks now. Thank you for all that you do to keep our patients and families feeling the Prosper love!

🍧 Today! (3–7 p.m.): Stop by the back of the MOB for our Prosper Beat the Heat event featuring Mr. B’s Shaved Ice!

💬 Tomorrow (12-3 p.m., 1621/1622): Last chance for a Benefits Q&A! Be sure to drop in if you need assistance.

⏳ Friday: Final deadline to complete your benefit selections.

Please don’t forget your survey!

Thank you for all you do,

Your Prosper Leadership Team

Infection Prevention Newsletter: August 2026

2026 Nursing Excellence Conference

Join us for the 4^th Annual Nursing Excellence Conference - Beyond the Horizon.

Inspiring innovation and excellence in pediatric nursing through

• Innovative presentations
• Poster showcase
• Networking
• Continuing education credits

Open to nurses, students and healthcare professionals. In-person and virtual attendance options available.

In Case You Missed It

Upcoming Fundraiser: Portillos

Register for Drug Diversion Symposium

Drug diversion is a quiet crisis, one that demands awareness, accountability, and action. The System Diversion Committee is proud to host the biennial Drug Diversion Symposium at Cook Children’s Medical Center - Prosper.

This year’s symposium is headlined by keynote speaker Stephen Loyd, M.D., a nationally recognized expert in substance use disorder and a powerful voice in the fight against the opioid epidemic. Dr. Loyd’s lived experience and clinical leadership helped inspire the critically acclaimed series Dopesick, bringing national attention to the realities of addiction and recovery.

Attendees will gain insight into organizational recovery following diversion events, emerging risks across both controlled and non-controlled substances, and the importance of a unified, system-wide approach to prevention, detection, and response. Each session is designed to equip participants with practical strategies that strengthen both individual accountability and organizational resilience.

Whether you are clinical or non-clinical, you will gain the tools needed to recognize risk, respond effectively, and protect our patients, colleagues, and organization.

• Cost: Free
• Date: Aug. 28, 2026
• Location: Prosper (seating for 30 / each session)
• Early Morning Session: Register here
• Full Symposium: Register here

Volunteer Opportunities

Good afternoon volunteers!

This is a reminder that we still have some great opportunities to give back this summer. Please click the link here to see the available options and times. Once you sign up, a coordinator will be in touch with more information about the event.

There is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about gun safety, safe sleep or any of our other injury prevention topic areas. We have streamlined the sign-up process with Signup Genius so you can see what is available in real time. If you have any questions regarding any of the events listed, please contact Jillian Mitchell, CPST or anyone on the community health team. As always, we appreciate your time and passion for educating families to keep children safe.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Closing Soon: Open Enrollment for Benefits

Time is running out to finalize your selection of benefits or make updates to your current coverage for the 2026-2027 benefits year.

Open enrollment runs through 11:59 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21. The benefits you select will be effective Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027.

Enroll by going to Workday Benefits, accessing the Benefits and Pay app, and submitting the elections you make. Or call the Benefits Center at 833-938-4154, weekdays from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

You can find details about eligibility, plan rates and options for health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, wellness and much more in the Benefits Guide available on the Benefits site on CookNet. The guide gives an overview of high-quality, affordable benefits that support your physical, emotional and financial well-being. You choose the coverage that fits your life best.

Current elections roll over automatically with the exceptions of flexible spending accounts, health savings account contributions and PTO sellback. These three elections are required to be made annually. If you don't take action by Friday, you'll have to wait until the open enrollment period in 2027 unless you have a major life change, such as getting married or having a baby.

What’s new starting Oct. 1? The biggest update is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) becoming our medical insurance carrier, offering access to a larger network of providers and member support through a service called Health Advocacy Solutions. Learn more about BCBSTX by watching a recorded information session located on the Benefits site on CookNet.

As always, if questions come up, we’re here to help. Contact the Benefits team by email at AskBenefits@cookchildrens.org.

BENEFITS INFORMATION SESSIONS:

Medical Center-Fort Worth - Family Support Room

• Aug. 18 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3- 6 p.m.
• Aug. 21 – 1-4 p.m.

Medical Center-Prosper, Classrooms 1621 and 1622

• Aug. 20: 12-3 p.m.

Mansfield Multispecialty

• Aug. 19: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Join Employees Care for Another Incredible Year of Impact

At Cook Children’s, we believe in the power of collaboration and generosity to make a difference.

As an employee, your job impacts patient care every day. As an Employees Care donor, you can become an even bigger part of our patients’ journeys, making their experience at Cook Children’s even more magical.

Employees Care is a special way for all of us – nurses, doctors, administrative staff and everyone in between – no matter our location, to unite for a cause that’s close to our hearts. Together, we can support those in need under our blue peaks.

Every dollar you donate helps us provide the best care for our patients, families, and colleagues. Whether it’s funding life-saving treatments, providing comforting toys, creating a magical space for play and healing, or helping fuel the Employee Crisis Fund, your generosity shines through in countless ways! Plus, you get to rock an awesome T-shirt to show others you give above and beyond your work!

Joining Employees Care is simple and rewarding. You can choose a one-time gift or set up a recurring donation – whatever works best for you. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a big difference!

Employees Care 2026 kicks off this week. Be sure to join us at one of our events, make your donation online or in-person, grab your thank you gift(s) and make a difference.

Questions? Be sure to email EmployeesCare@cookchildrens.org.

Complete Your Voice Matters Survey

It’s important for us to hear from you through the Your Voice Matters Survey. The response rates continue to rise but we want to reach a 75% response rate goal! Help us accomplish this by taking the survey by September 1 so we can have a strong picture of your work experience so we can take meaningful action.

It’s easy to take the survey: see the email you received from Press Ganey – or – go to the CookNet homepage scroll for two quick ways to get to the survey. Click here to take the survey or if you’re on a desktop computer you can click the banner and go directly to the survey. Use your employee ID # as your password. Tip – add a leading zero(s) if your ID # is less than 6 digits. Ex. 9999 = 009999

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Watch Now: Summer 2026 Town Hall

If you were unable to attend today's Town Hall or would like to revisit any of the topics discussed, the recording is now available to watch at your convenience.

During the Town Hall, leaders shared updates on:

• Financial and operational performance across Cook Children's
• Marketing and Communications initiatives
• Benefits updates and open enrollment information
• Human Resources announcements, reminders and employee resources
• Quality and Safety priorities and future goals
• A panel discussion focused on supporting team member well-being
• A reminder to complete the Your Voice Matters survey and help us reach our participation goal 

In the coming weeks, we will share individual video segments from today's Town Hall, making it easier to watch specific presentations and discussions that are most relevant to you.

Watch the Town Hall recording here.

Update on the 2026 Market Review Process

We appreciate your patience as we have completed the market review process, taking the time to ensure every role was evaluated thoroughly and accurately. This was our top priority.

Team members receiving a market adjustment have been notified by their manager and are able to view their updated pay rate information in Workday today. Tomorrow’s paycheck will include this change and any additional pay retroactive to June 28, 2026.

While some employees will receive a market-based base pay adjustment as a result of this review, most will not. Adjustments were identified across a variety of departments, professions, job levels and roles because each position was evaluated against external labor market base pay rates rather than as part of a broader employee group.

Alignment indicates that base pay is competitive. Steps taken over the past year, including merit increases and interim pay adjustments, have helped position base pay appropriately. Looking ahead, annual merit increases, internal adjustments and external market reviews will continue. The work completed this year will make these annual processes more streamlined.

Base pay is one important element of our compensation program. In addition to base pay, Cook Children's continues to benchmark and invest in our benefits, retirement contributions, CareShare, wellness programs, recognition and training initiatives, and other compensation and total rewards offerings.

Thank you for your dedication to our patients and members, children and families, one another, and our Promise.

To get your frequently asked questions answered, please click here. 

Under the Peaks Updated Hours 

The Under the Peaks retail store will have updated hours. Come shop between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. This new schedule will begin on Friday, August 14. 

There will not be extended hours on the third Wednesday of every month. Don't forget you can visit our online retail store for all your Cook Children's gear! 

Click here to shop the online store. 

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website. 

Good afternoon Prosper family,

As the kids head back to school, we hope everyone enjoyed a restful and relaxing summer. It is still Texas hot outside, so please remember to hydrate and find ways to keep you and your kiddos cool.  Make sure to take advantage of all the great Well-being opportunities being offered throughout the month. Lastly, thank you for all that you do and for taking care of our kiddos. 

🍧 Aug. 19 (3–7 PM): Stop by the back of the MOB for our Prosper Beat the Heat event featuring Mr. B’s Shaved Ice!

💬 Aug. 20 (12-3 PM 1621/1622): Last chance for a Benefits Q&A! Be sure to drop in if you need assistance.

⏳ Aug. 21: Final deadline to complete your benefit selections.

Please don’t forget your survey!

Thank you for all you do,

Your Prosper Leadership Team

2026 Nursing Excellence Conference

Join us for the 4th Annual Nursing Excellence Conference - Beyond the Horizon.

Inspiring innovation and excellence in pediatric nursing through

• Innovative presentations
• Poster showcase
• Networking
• Continuing education credits

Open to nurses, students and healthcare professionals. In-person and virtual attendance options available.

In Case You Missed It

Upcoming Fundraiser: Portillos

Register for Drug Diversion Symposium

Drug diversion is a quiet crisis, one that demands awareness, accountability, and action. The System Diversion Committee is proud to host the biennial Drug Diversion Symposium at Cook Children’s Medical Center - Prosper.

This year’s symposium is headlined by keynote speaker Stephen Loyd, M.D., a nationally recognized expert in substance use disorder and a powerful voice in the fight against the opioid epidemic. Dr. Loyd’s lived experience and clinical leadership helped inspire the critically acclaimed series Dopesick, bringing national attention to the realities of addiction and recovery.

Attendees will gain insight into organizational recovery following diversion events, emerging risks across both controlled and non-controlled substances, and the importance of a unified, system-wide approach to prevention, detection, and response. Each session is designed to equip participants with practical strategies that strengthen both individual accountability and organizational resilience.

Whether you are clinical or non-clinical, you will gain the tools needed to recognize risk, respond effectively, and protect our patients, colleagues, and organization.

• Cost: Free
• Date: Aug. 28, 2026
• Location: Prosper (seating for 30 / each session)
• Early Morning Session: Register here
• Full Symposium: Register here

Volunteer Opportunities

Good afternoon volunteers!

This is a reminder that we still have some great opportunities to give back this summer. Please click the link here to see the available options and times. Once you sign up, a coordinator will be in touch with more information about the event.

There is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about gun safety, safe sleep or any of our other injury prevention topic areas. We have streamlined the sign-up process with Signup Genius so you can see what is available in real time. If you have any questions regarding any of the events listed, please contact Jillian Mitchell, CPST or anyone on the community health team. As always, we appreciate your time and passion for educating families to keep children safe.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

System Town Hall

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, in Hochberger Auditorium, Medical Center-Fort Worth.

Click here to attend virtually and experience the discussion in real-time via a live stream.

These events are designed to keep all of us informed and aligned about what has been accomplished by our teams across the system and what we are looking forward to in the rest of 2026 and beyond.

For those whose schedules or locations do not permit attendance, the Town Hall will be recorded and posted on the scrolling banner on the homepage of CookNet, and emailed after the event.

Stephen Kimmel to Retire in October

After more than 12 years of dedicated service to Cook Children's, Stephen Kimmel, Executive Vice President of System Finance, has announced his retirement in October.

Since joining Cook Children's in 2014, Stephen has been a trusted leader and steward of the organization's resources, helping ensure Cook Children's could continue investing in exceptional care for children and families. He brought to Cook Children's a wealth of health care finance experience, including leadership roles at Providence Health & Services and Hendrick Health System, where he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for more than a decade. Through thoughtful financial leadership and planning, he has helped position the health system to meet the needs of a growing region while staying true to its mission.

During Stephen's tenure, Cook Children's expanded its reach across North Texas, including the opening of Cook Children's Medical Center - Prosper in 2023. The medical center brought emergency, surgical and inpatient care closer to home for families in one of the state's fastest-growing regions and continues to grow alongside the community it serves.

"It has been a profound honor and a privilege to be part of such an exceptional organization,” Stephen said. “Looking back on our growth over the last 12 years, I am deeply grateful for the dedication of our team and proud of all we’ve accomplished together in service of our Promise."

Behind many of Cook Children's most significant growth initiatives was Stephen's thoughtful stewardship of the organization's resources. His leadership helped ensure Cook Children's could continue investing in children and families, our team members, and our communities, from the opening of the Prosper medical center to the development of the West Tower, which will expand access to critical care, neonatal care, cancer and blood disorder services, surgery and imaging for years to come.

"Stephen has been an exceptional leader, trusted advisor and valued member of our executive team," said Rick W. Merrill, President and CEO of Cook Children's. "His stewardship, integrity and commitment to our Promise have helped shape a transformative chapter in Cook Children's history. We are deeply grateful for his contributions and wish him nothing but happiness and fulfillment in retirement."

Colleagues across the system know Stephen for his integrity, steady leadership and commitment to the Cook Children's Promise. As he begins this next chapter with his wife, Sherette and their family, we thank him for his years of service and the lasting impact he has made on Cook Children's and the families and communities we serve.

Reminder: Enroll Now for New Benefits Year

Open enrollment for the 2026-2027 benefits year runs through Aug. 21, and you can learn about your options at information sessions offered online and at various locations in person.

A brief overview of our new medical insurance carrier, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), will be explained in virtual sessions that introduce BCBSTX Health Advocacy Solutions, which connects members with health advocates for personalized support. Click the date below to tune in:

• Wednesday, Aug. 12 – 11:30 a.m.
• Monday, Aug. 17 – 9 a.m.

The virtual sessions will be recorded and posted on CookNet to watch at your convenience.

Information sessions at sites across the system (see dates and locations below) are also available to help you choose the coverage that fits your life best. Our new Benefits Guide, available here on CookNet, provides details about eligibility, plan rates and options for health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, wellness and more.

The benefits you select during open enrollment will be effective Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027.

Current elections will roll over automatically with the exceptions of flexible spending accounts, health savings account contributions and PTO sellback. These three elections are required to be made annually. If you want any of these for next year, you must actively make those elections. If you don't take action, you'll have to wait until the next open enrollment period unless you have a major life change, such as having a baby.

Enroll by going to Workday Benefits, accessing the Benefits and Pay app, and submitting the elections you make. You can also enroll by calling the Benefits Center at 833-938-4154, weekdays from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Questions? Contact the Benefits team at AskBenefits@cookchildrens.org.

BENEFITS INFORMATION SESSIONS:

Medical Center-Fort Worth - Family Support Room

• Aug. 13 – 10 p.m.-12 a.m.
• Aug. 17 – 10 p.m. – 12 a.m.
• Aug. 18 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3- 6 p.m.
• Aug. 21 – 1-4 p.m.

Medical Center-Prosper, Classrooms 1621 and 1622

• Aug. 20: 12-3 p.m.

Child Study Center

• Aug. 12: 3-4:30 p.m.

Hurst Multispecialty

• Aug. 13: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Walsh Ranch

• Aug. 14: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Calmont

• Aug. 17: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mansfield Multispecialty

• Aug. 19: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Performance Evaluations Kick Off

Now through Sept. 14, managers will complete year-end performance reviews to support the continued growth and development of our team members.

These evaluations provide a structured way to reflect on and assess your accomplishments, contributions, strengths and development opportunities since the start of the performance year on Oct. 1, 2025. Performance and Development (P&D) helps you look back, learn and launch forward for your continual growth and success.

Managers will use a three-point rating scale to evaluate performance across several performance dimensions, including:

• Core job responsibilities
• Impact on patients, patient families, members and teammates
• Demonstration of Cook Children’s values
• Goal management and achievement (directors only)

P&D is an important part of your professional growth journey. It helps you:

• Celebrate your achievements and reinforce habits of excellence.
• Identify any challenges and potential areas for growth.
• Look ahead to career aspirations and goals.

Once evaluations are complete, team members will meet one-on-one with their manager to discuss their performance review. These conversations provide an opportunity to reflect on accomplishments and challenges, review additional feedback from peers and direct reports (for leaders), and discuss development goals and priorities for the coming year. Visit the P&D page on CookNet for more information.

Listen to Newest Podcast: For Kids’ Sake Podcast, Por Su Bienestar

For Kids' Sake is a pediatric health podcast from Cook Children's Health Care System. Each week, Cook Children's physicians, specialists and clinicians answer parents' questions, explain trending health topics and share practical guidance on children's health, development, safety and wellness.

The first episode features Pediatrician Diane Arnaout, M.D. (in English) and Pediatrician Bianka Soria-Olmos, D.O. (in Spanish) for a Back-to-School episode. Listen wherever you get podcasts or watch full episodes on the Cook Children's YouTube channel. Spanish-speaking families or employees can also explore our companion podcast, Por Su Bienestar.

Cool Down with Beat the Heat Events

Well-Being Month continues through August, and we have Beat the Heat events for you! If your team is off-site or fully remote, funds will be provided to help you coordinate a sweet treat experience of your own, because everyone deserves a moment to cool off and connect. Please see the Team Experience page to learn more about how to get these funds.
Wednesday, Aug. 12 - Fort Worth Medical Center

• Day Shift: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Click here to view the serving location map

• Night Shift: 10-11:30 p.m. (Pruitt Plaza)

Wednesday, Aug. 19 - Prosper Medical Center

• 3 p.m.-7 p.m. (Day and Night Shift)

• Serving from the back of the hospital. In the case of inclement weather, Mr. B’s Shaved Ice will be serving from Conference Rooms 1621/1622.

Wednesday, Aug. 26 - Calmont Office Building

• 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

• Serving from the third-floor break room

To participate in the other Well-Being Month activities including self-care classes and Well-Being Bingo, see the Team Experience SharePoint page.

Retirement

Join us in congratulating staff members who are retiring from Cook Children's this summer:

• Leslie Earle, Patient Experience in Food Services, is retiring after 19 years on August 14.

To read more about Leslie along with other recent retirees please visit the Retirement page on CookNet.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Good afternoon Prosper family,

Welcome to August! As we power through the final stretch of summer heat, back-to-school season is officially here—so keep an eye out for increased traffic with school buses and teachers returning to the roads.

Don’t forget, our Benefits Fair is Friday, Aug. 7, from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Rooms 1621/1622. Stop by to explore your benefits options and prepare for open enrollment, open through Aug. 21.

Well-Being month is here! Be sure to take advantage of all the opportunities it has to offer.

Thank you for all you do,

Your Prosper Leadership Team

August is Well-being Month

Each year we dedicate August as Well-being Month at Cook Children’s. The goal of Well-being Month is to connect you with the programs, benefits, and resources available at Cook Children’s that support your well-being both at work and at home.

When we prioritize our personal and professional well-being, we’re better equipped with the energy, motivation, and resilience to show up as our best selves each day.

Join us for one or more well-being activities planned throughout the month. Opportunities include self-care classes, connection events, and fun ways to explore new well-being practices through Well-Bingo and Well-Being On-Demand.

The best place to stay informed about everything happening during Well-being Month is the Well-being Month page on the Team Experience site on CookNet. You’ll find registration links for classes, details about upcoming activities, and access to the Well-Bingo card. Click here to learn how off-site clinics and locations, and fully remote teams, can get funds to host a Beat the Heat Treat event. 

New Zero Harm Coach Training Offerings

Solutions for Patient Safety (SPS): All Teach All Learn Series

SPS is offering a bi-monthly call series for network peers to collaboratively understand and brainstorm improvement ideas with Patient Behavioral Event (PBE) employee harm topics. Should you have the opportunity, please consider joining us for the next call in the series, from 10 - 11 a.m. on Sept. 17 in Classrooms 3332/3333.

Behavioral Health Champion June: Johnathan Dring

Please join us in congratulating Johnathan Dring on his reception of this month's Behavioral Health Champion recognition! Johnathan was an excellent leader during a recent behavioral emergency response team (BERT) alert, providing support, clear communication and a calm demeanor.

Small Lungs, Big Impact: Respiratory Education Event

Thank you to those who joined us for our respiratory education event on July 23 or 30. Thanks to your participation, the event was a great success, fostering meaningful learning and conversation around respiratory health.

Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week

The Lactation and Clinical Nutrition teams are hosting an educational table outside the Over the Moon Café all week long. Drop by from 11:30 a.m.  to 12:30 p.m. to learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, explore helpful family resources, and play fun games for a chance to win cool giveaways. We’d love to see you there as we support breastfeeding awareness together.

Save the Date: Drug Diversion Symposium

Join us on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, in Prosper Classrooms 1621/1622 for our virtual Drug Diversion Symposium.

To accommodate various schedules, two options are available (limit 30 participants per session):

Early Morning Session (6:15 – 7:30 a.m.): A condensed 1-hour overview designed specifically for night shift, perioperative and anesthesia staff. Breakfast will be provided.

Full Symposium (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.): A comprehensive session open to all clinical and non-clinical staff. Breakfast & lunch will be provided.

Look for signups to come out on Friday, Aug. 7. Be sure to register early to secure your seat.

Safety Tips from Your Security Team

Several of our team members have asked about reaching security officers when they are at UCC either rounding or when closing, here is a reminder about the multiple ways that you can reach them. You can always use the walkie-talkie to reach them if you can’t get them by other communication methods.

How to contact Security in an Emergency:

• Panic Alarm Button
• Code Phone x44405 (945-204-4405)
• Handheld Radio – Security 1 Channel
• Parking Lot Emergency Intercoms (Blue Phones)

How to contact Security for Non-Emergent needs:

• Vocera
• Security Office x41050 (945-204-1050)
• ED Unit Secretary x44409 (945-204-4409)
• Handheld Radio (last resort) Security 1 Channel

Patient Families | Visitors | Vendors | Contractors:

• Patient Families:
  • Parents are issued a colored wristband (pink, teal, or silver) once their child is admitted
• Vendors & Contractors:
  • Required to check in with security. If you notice a vendor / contractor without a badge, please contact security

Safe and Secure

• Security Officers make rounds hourly throughout the campus
• Security conducts weekly testing of panic alarms
• Public and work areas are monitored and recorded by video cameras
• Areas are controlled by badge access

Service Animals

• Security and Nursing Supervisors are responsible for vetting service animals
  • Approved service animals will have an orange band attached to their collar

In Case You Missed It

Self Evaluations Launched

Self Evaluation has now been launched and will be available until Aug. 10 and is required for Magnet Nurses. Once completed the Performance Evaluation will automatically advance to the Manager Evaluation step; if not completed, it will be advanced to Managers on Aug. 10.

Once the Self Evaluation is submitted by the employee, the Manager Evaluation will automatically launch. If the Self Evaluation is not submitted by the employee, then the Manager Evaluation will launch on Aug. 10.

For more information on Performance and Development, click here. 

To complete your self evaluation, navigate to your tasks on Workday.

Volunteer Opportunities

Good afternoon volunteers!

This is a reminder that we still have some great opportunities to give back this summer. Please click the link here to see the available options and times. Once you sign up, a coordinator will be in touch with more information about the event.

There is something for everyone, whether you are passionate about gun safety, safe sleep or any of our other injury prevention topic areas. We have streamlined the sign-up process with Signup Genius so you can see what is available in real time. If you have any questions regarding any of the events listed, please contact Jillian Mitchell, CPST or anyone on the community health team. As always, we appreciate your time and passion for educating families to keep children safe.

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website. 

Message from Mr. Merrill - Employee Survey

Every day, we witness the incredible dedication and compassion you show to our patients, health plan members, their families, and one another. This commitment is the foundation of our Promise and makes Cook Children’s a remarkable place to work.

We encourage you to participate in this year’s Your Voice Matters Survey, open from Aug. 4 to Sept. 1. This survey is our key tool for listening to you, celebrating successes, and identifying areas for improvement. Your feedback has driven meaningful changes over the years.

Our goal is to achieve a 75 percent participation rate, ensuring we capture an accurate picture of experiences across all locations and departments. The survey is confidential and managed by Press Ganey, so you can share your thoughts freely.

Look for an email from Press Ganey on Tuesday or scan the QR code on CookNet. It takes just 10 to 15 minutes, and you can pause and return at any time. Your input will shape our work for the year ahead.

Thank you for everything you do to uphold our Promise, and for sharing your voice to strengthen Cook Children’s.

- Rick W. Merrill, President and CEO of Cook Children's Health Care System

ICYMI: System Town Hall

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, in Hochberger Auditorium, Medical Center-Fort Worth.

Click here to attend virtually and experience the discussion in real-time via a live stream.

These events are designed to keep all of us informed and aligned about what has been accomplished by our teams across the system and what we are looking forward to in 2026.

For those whose schedules or locations do not permit attendance, the event will be recorded and posted on the scrolling banner on the homepage of CookNet and emailed later after the event.

Learn About Benefits Options During Open Enrollment

Open enrollment for the 2026-2027 benefits year is now in full swing, and we have a variety of ways to help you choose the coverage that fits your life best.

Come to a Benefits Fair this week to meet with representatives from our benefits vendors (see locations and dates below). Vendors will be on hand to answer questions about health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, wellness and more. Resources at the fair can help you clarify complex options, optimize your current plans and feel confident about open enrollment selections.

We’re also offering several virtual sessions to briefly review the upcoming year’s changes, including the switch to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) as our medical insurance carrier. Virtual sessions will provide an overview of the BCBSTX Health Advocacy Solutions, an employer-sponsored program that pairs members with a dedicated health advocate for personalized, hands-on support. Sessions will be recorded and posted on CookNet to watch at your convenience.

Open enrollment runs through Aug. 21. The benefits you select will be effective Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027.

Be sure to check out the comprehensive new Employee Benefits Guide, which provides details about eligibility, plan rates and options. Click here to view the benefits CookNet page.

Current elections will roll over automatically with the exceptions of flexible spending accounts, health savings account contributions and PTO sellback. These three elections are required to be made annually. If you want any of these for next year, you must actively make those elections. If you don't take action, you'll have to wait until the next open enrollment period unless you have a major life change, such as having a baby.

Enroll in Workday by going to Workday Benefits, accessing the Benefits and Pay app, and submitting the elections you make. You can also enroll by calling the Benefits Center at 833-938-4154, weekdays from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Contact the Benefits team at AskBenefits@cookchildrens.org if you have questions.

BENEFITS FAIRS:

Medical Center- Fort Worth - Atrium

• Aug. 5 – 1-6 p.m.
• Aug. 6 – 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Medical Center-Prosper, Classrooms 1621 and 1622

• Aug. 7 -- 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

BENEFITS INFORMATION SESSIONS:

Medical Center-Fort Worth - Family Support Room

• Aug. 10 – 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Aug. 12 – 7-10 a.m.
• Aug. 13 – 10 p.m.-12 a.m.
• Aug. 17 – 10 p.m. – 12 a.m.
• Aug. 18 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3- 6 p.m.
• Aug. 21 – 1-4 p.m.

Medical Center-Prosper, Classrooms 1621 and 1622

• Aug. 11: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Aug. 20: 12-3 p.m.

Child Study Center

• Aug. 12: 3-4:30 p.m.

Hurst Multispecialty

• Aug. 13: 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Walsh Ranch

• Aug. 14: 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Calmont

• Aug. 17: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mansfield Multispecialty

• Aug. 19: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

VIRTUAL SESSIONS: Click the dates below to join the corresponding virtual session

• Aug. 10 – 2 p.m.
• Aug. 12 – 11:30 a.m.
• Aug. 17 – 9 a.m.

Self-Evaluation: Reflect on Your Year

Magnet nurses are required to complete the Self-Evaluation step of year-end Performance & Development (P&D) by Aug. 10 in Workday.

For everyone else in our system, Self-Evaluation is optional but highly encouraged. It’s an opportunity to assess how you carried out your core job responsibilities, and the impact you’ve made on patients, patient families and your team across the entire performance year starting Oct. 1, 2025.

Managers can begin performance evaluations for their direct reports as soon as each Self-Evaluation is submitted. If a Self-Evaluation is not submitted, managers will have to wait until Aug. 10 to begin the Manager Evaluation. Visit the P&D page on CookNet for a timeline, tips and more resources.

Coming Aug. 12: A New Look for the External Email Banner

For several years, Cook Children’s has used an external email banner to help employees identify messages sent from outside the organization and to encourage extra caution when reviewing them.

In order to improve visibility and make external emails easier to recognize, we will be updating the external email on Wednesday, August 12. Click here for more information and to see the new banner.

While the appearance is changing, the purpose remains the same: helping employees quickly identify messages from external senders. Taking a moment to verify unexpected emails, links, attachments, and requests for information helps protect our patients, our colleagues, and Cook Children’s data.

(Note: The APPROVED EXTERNAL EMAIL banner will be updated at a later date.)

Celebrate Latest Quarterly Peak Performers

Congratulations to all our latest Peak Performers. From Behavioral Health and Pharmacy to Research and Environmental Services, we see you stepping up with dedication, quick thinking and positivity as you advocate for patients and one another. Your contributions to our system do not go unnoticed. Visit the Peak Performers CookNet site to see a full list of those recognized this quarter and to find out how to a nominate fellow colleagues.

Medical Center - Prosper Named No. 1 in Prosper & Celina Living Magazine Readers' Choice Awards

We are excited to share that families in Prosper and Celina have officially voted Cook Children's as their #1 choice for pediatric health care and emergency services! In a region where families have many options for pediatric health care services, they continue to choose Cook Children’s because of your commitment to high-quality care and outstanding experiences.

This recognition is a direct reflection of the exceptional care you deliver every single day, as well as the genuine connections you build with our patients and families. Thank you for everything you do to live out our Pinky Promise: Everything for the Child.

Register for Drug Diversion Symposium

Drug diversion is a quiet crisis, one that demands awareness, accountability, and action. The System Diversion Committee is proud to host the biennial Drug Diversion Symposium at Cook Children’s Medical Center - Fort Worth.

This year’s symposium is headlined by keynote speaker Stephen Loyd, M.D., a nationally recognized expert in substance use disorder and a powerful voice in the fight against the opioid epidemic. Dr. Loyd’s lived experience and clinical leadership helped inspire the critically acclaimed series Dopesick, bringing national attention to the realities of addiction and recovery.

Attendees will gain insight into organizational recovery following diversion events, emerging risks across both controlled and non-controlled substances, and the importance of a unified, system-wide approach to prevention, detection, and response. Each session is designed to equip participants with practical strategies that strengthen both individual accountability and organizational resilience.

Whether you are clinical or non-clinical, you will gain the tools needed to recognize risk, respond effectively, and protect our patients, colleagues, and organization.

• Cost: Free
• Date: Aug. 28, 2026
• Location: Hochberger Auditorium
• Early Morning Session: Register here
• Full Symposium: Register here

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.

Starting Soon: Open Enrollment for New Benefits Year

Get ready to enroll for the 2026-2027 benefits year by exploring your options for medical plans and many more benefits available to you and your family members.

Open enrollment runs from Aug. 3-21. The benefits you select will be effective Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027.

The comprehensive Employee Benefits Guide provides details about eligibility, plan rates and options including dental, vision, pharmacy, time away from work, leave, disability, retirement, lifestyle benefits and financial wellness. Use the guide, arriving in your mailbox next week to learn about the variety of benefits and changes new this year. Choose the coverage that fits your life best. 

“At Cook Children’s, we want every team member to thrive at work, at home, and in every stage of life,” said Merridth Simpson, Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer. “That’s why we continue to invest in high-quality, affordable benefits that support your physical, emotional and financial well-being.”

Read more about what's new this year, in-person help at Benefits Fairs, and information sessions at several locations. 

August is Well-being Month 

Each year we dedicate August as Well-being Month at Cook Children’s. The goal of Well-being Month is to connect you with the programs, benefits, and resources available at Cook Children’s that support your well-being both at work and at home.

When we prioritize our personal and professional well-being, we’re better equipped with the energy, motivation, and resilience to show up as our best selves each day.

Join us for one or more well-being activities planned throughout the month. Opportunities include self-care classes, connection events, and fun ways to explore new well-being practices through Well-Bingo and Well-Being On-Demand.

The best place to stay informed about everything happening during Well-being Month is the Well-being Month page on the Team Experience site on CookNet. You’ll find registration links for classes, details about upcoming activities, and access to the Well-Bingo card. Click here to learn how off-site clinics and locations, and fully remote teams, can get funds to host a Beat the Heat Treat event. 

FAQs: Your Voice Matters Survey

We want to hear from you Aug. 4 to Sept. 1 through the Your Voice Matters Survey!

The survey is our most effective tool to understand how we’re delivering on our Promise. It helps us know what is working well and where we have opportunities to improve. Your input continues to drive real improvements that enhance our team, patient, and safety/quality experiences at Cook Children’s.

Our goal is that 75% or more of you will complete the survey. Reaching that goal will give us a strong picture of your work experience so we can take meaningful action. Read through the helpful FAQs below to learn more about this year’s survey.

Survey FAQs: 

• Who is included in this year’s employee survey? Employees who started with Cook Children’s on or before May 4, 2026.
• How long is the survey open? The survey opens the morning of Aug. 4 and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 1.
• How can I take the survey? Press Ganey, our survey vendor, will send eligible employees an email on Tuesday, Aug 4; Press Ganey emails are green tag/approved so it’s safe to click on the link to take the survey.
• Will there be a QR code for the survey? Yes, employees can also take the survey on their phone by using the QR code posted on the CookNet survey page on Aug. 4.
• Will I get reminders to take the survey? Press Ganey will send reminder emails each Tuesday morning in August; if you lose your email link, you can wait for a reminder email or use the survey QR code.
• How long does the survey take? The average time to complete the survey is 10 to 15 minutes; this includes the multiple-choice questions and three open-ended questions.
• Do I need to complete the survey all at once? You can start the survey, then stop and return later to complete it; the survey will open where you left off.
• Is the survey confidential? Yes, the survey is administered by our third-party vendor, Press Ganey. No one at Cook Children’s sees any individual employee’s responses to the survey.
• What if I can’t open the survey or have issues with logging in? The Press Ganey help desk can assist you. See their contact information at the bottom of their email or on the CookNet survey page.
• What if I have a question about who or what the survey is asking about? Look for the survey Key Terms link at the top right of the screen.

Questions about the Your Voice Matters survey? Visit the CookNet survey page or email teamexperience@cookchildrens.org.

P&D Self-Evaluation Kicks Off in Workday

Now is your chance to assess your own job performance and weigh in with your perspective ahead of year-end evaluations for Performance & Development (P&D). 

You should have received a task in your Workday inbox to submit a Self-Evaluation by Aug. 10. This should cover the entire P&D year starting on Oct. 1, 2025. Here’s what else you need to know:

• Seize the opportunity to reflect on and advocate for:
  • How well you carried out your core job responsibilities
  • The impact you’ve made on patients, patient families, members and/or your team
  • How you’ve demonstrated Cook Children’s Values
  • (For Directors) How effectively you’ve managed goals and delivered expected results
• Highlight your strengths and areas you’d like to develop next year.
• Responses can be viewed only by you, your manager and Human Resources.
• Magnet nurses are required to complete Self-Evaluations. It’s highly encouraged for everyone else.

What comes up next in the P&D cycle? Performance Evaluations. Managers can begin these annual reviews for their direct reports as soon as each Self-Evaluation is submitted. Otherwise, managers will have to wait until Aug. 10.

Other action items to complete:

1. FY26 Required Annual Training by Aug. 1. See the list and the steps to check your completion status here. Those who are not complete by the deadline will be subject to a corrective action at the written warning level beginning Aug. 2 and given 15 days to complete the curriculum. Further disciplinary action will continue if the required curriculum is not complete by Aug. 15.

   Anyone who hasn’t completed the FY2026 Required Annual Training in ULearn by Aug. 1 will be issued a Written Warning corrective action by the Employee Relations department. The employees will have an additional 30 days to complete these requirements.  If the employee has not completed their training by Aug. 31, the employee will be issued a Final Written Warning corrective action the next day..
    

2. Leader Feedback by Aug. 3. Your insights help your manager know their strengths and areas for growth.
    

3. If your role requires annual respiratory mask fit testing, all required employees must be up to date with their mask fit test by Dec. 11, 2026. Mask testing is required once every 12 months. If your current test is still good, you are all set for now and do not need to take any action until your 12 months are up. For example, if you got tested in December 2025, your test is good through December 2026. Before booking an appointment, please take a quick moment to check the date of your last test. Making sure you actually need a new test right now helps keep open appointment spots available for teammates who are due immediately. 

   If your test is already past due, or will expire soon, you can easily schedule a new appointment through the Enterprise Health Portal, where plenty of open times are available. Leaders can view completion dates in their Enterprise Supervisor Portal, but if you are past due, you will have a grace period to get scheduled before any further action is taken. 

   As a reminder, you can sign in to the Enterprise Health Portal, to confirm your due date or that your mask fit has expired. Please contact occhealth@cookchildrens.org if you have any questions. 

   The goal is for everyone to be in compliance with all requirements when the employee’s Performance and Development is completed. 

Check out CookNet to find resources, tip sheets and a timeline for year-end P&D activities. 

Introducing Data Sensitivity Labeling

Data Sensitivity Labeling will launch across the System on July 30, 2026. Data sensitivity labels are digital tags users can apply to documents, emails, and other files to classify how confidential or sensitive the information is. Think of them as a standardized way to label content (such as Public, Internal, Confidential, or Regulated) so that everyone handles it appropriately.

Data labels make it easy to identify the sensitivity level of our files and documents. This helps to:

• Protect patient and business information.
• Reduce the risk of accidental data sharing.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and Cook Children's Data Classification and Governance Policy IS 350.

To learn how to use the new labels in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), SharePoint, Outlook, and Teams, please review the quick reference guides here.

The Motion Lab at Medical Center - Fort Worth Has New Home

Join the team for an open house at the Motion Lab from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 3, and explore the new space.

Finding the lab is easy: Enter the Seventh Avenue parking garage and use the doors leading to the elevators on the first floor. Just beyond the elevators closest to Pruitt Plaza you'll find the entrance to the Motion Lab's new location.

In Case You Missed It

Save the Date: System Town Hall 

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026, in Hochberger Auditorium, Medical Center-Fort Worth.

Click here to attend virtually and experience the discussion in real-time via a live stream.

These events are designed to keep all of us informed and aligned about what has been accomplished by our teams across the system and what we are looking forward to in 2026. 

For those whose schedules or locations do not permit attendance, the event will be recorded and posted on the scrolling banner on the homepage of CookNet and emailed later after the event.

Solutions Center - Simplified Support

Beginning at 7 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 3, the Solutions Center will transition to a single phone number for all service requests: 682-303-COOK.

This new phone number is designed to simplify the process of requesting service by providing one easy-to-remember point of contact. When you call, your request will be routed to the appropriate department, helping ensure you are connected to the team best equipped to assist you

Services available through the Solutions Center include Security, Facilities, Environmental Services and Clinical Engineering.

By consolidating multiple phone numbers into one, the Solutions Center will improve the customer experience and help connect callers to the right resources more efficiently. 

Please note: This phone number will be available for the Medical Center - Fort Worth campus only. Existing numbers and processes at other Cook Children’s locations will remain unchanged. 

Thank you for your support and cooperation as we implement this improvement to simplify the support services you need. 

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

To find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.