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. 

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. 

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. 

Save the Date: System Town Hall 

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

Our Town Halls bring us together to share essential updates, discuss key initiatives, and highlight what’s on the horizon for our system.

For those whose schedules or locations do not permit attendance, you can watch the livestream by clicking here on the time of the event.

The event will be recorded and posted on the scrolling banner on the homepage of CookNet and emailed later after the event.

Your Voice Matters Survey Launches Aug. 4

We want to hear from you this August 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. Hearing from as many of you as possible is important – it helps us understand your work experience better so we can take meaningful action.

Look for an email invitation from Press Ganey in your inbox on Aug. 4. You’ll have until Sept. 1 to complete your survey.

Next week we’ll share more details and FAQs about the upcoming survey. Questions? Email teamexperience@cookchildrens.org.

Prepare for Self-Evaluation in Workday

The Self-Evaluation phase of Performance & Development (P&D) opens next week, allowing you to share viewpoints on your own job performance and contributions.     

While these self-assessments may be optional, they are highly encouraged to give you the chance to reflect on the impact you’ve made since Oct. 1, 2025, the start of this performance year. Note: Magnet nurses are required to complete Self-Evaluations. The task is due in Workday by Aug. 10. 

Self-Evaluation is an opportunity to advocate for yourself. Responses stay confidential as they are viewable only to you, your manager and Human Resources. Be thinking about these prompts:

• How you contributed to the experience of our patients, patient families and teams
• How you carried out your core responsibilities
• How you demonstrated Cook Children’s values: collaboration, generosity, imagination, kindness, respect and safety
• Your top two strengths and top two opportunities for development

Also, time is winding down to complete Peer Feedback by July 27 and Leader Feedback by Aug. 3. Your feedback helps colleagues and managers know their strengths and areas for growth. Thank you for supporting your teammates with candid, actionable insights.

And one more reminder of the Aug. 1 deadline to complete your fiscal year 2026 required annual training in ULearn. Check out CookNet to find resources, tip sheets and a timeline for year-end P&D activities. 

Important Clarification: Aug. 1 Mask Fit Testing Compliance Requirement

We want to clear up a few details regarding annual mask fit testing and share an update on the deadline.

First, 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. 

Thank you for checking your dates and helping us keep everyone safe and up to date!

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
• 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 Fort Worth Medical Center 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. 

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. 

Cash Registers Impacted Beginning July 20, Bring Cash as Backup

Cook Children’s will be upgrading to a new cash register system July 20-24, 2026.

During this transition, we’ll be converting and testing the QuickCharge Point of Sale (POS) system, which will offer updated features. The changes affect Medical Center-Fort Worth, Medical Center-Prosper, and Dodson Specialty Clinics.

Credit cards, retail gift cards and employee badge payments at registers will be intermittently unavailable. All forms of payment will resume as each register update is completed. Please anticipate delays and have cash on hand as backup form of payment.

To learn more, visit Connect Newsroom. Thank you for your patience during this transition. 

Support your Peers and Leaders with Feedback  

Two key components of Performance & Development (P&D) are underway, and it’s essential to hear from those selected for input.

First, if a colleague chose you for Peer Feedback, you have until July 27 to complete your response in Workday. Be specific, honest and constructive in sharing insights into your teammate’s performance. 

Next, if a manager tapped you for Leader Feedback, you have until Aug. 3 to finalize your response. It’s your opportunity to share perspective on your manager’s coaching, communication and other leadership skills.

Providing feedback as requested is optional but highly encouraged. Per Magnet requirements, nurses must complete requests for Peer Feedback.

Keep in mind why this phase of the P&D cycle matters. Because the feedback:

• Reinforces your strengths and celebrates your accomplishments

• Identifies potential areas for improvement and growth

• Puts the values of collaboration and respect into practice to help everyone at Cook Children’s be their best professional selves  

Remember, the feedback you provide doesn’t impact anyone’s year-end performance evaluation. And you must complete by Aug. 1 your Fiscal year 2026 required annual training in ULearn and the N-95 respiratory fit test through Occupational Health, if required for your role.

Visit the P&D page on CookNet for resources and more information.

The July 17 Epic Upgrade Launches a New Quarterly Upgrade Cadence at Cook Children’s

Cook Children’s is moving to a new quarterly Epic upgrade schedule beginning with the summer upgrade. Instead of receiving updates twice annually, end users will now benefit from a more frequent, smaller update that brings new tools, workflow improvements, important fixes, and emerging innovations into everyday practice sooner. This shift is designed to help teams stay closer to Epic’s latest functionality while making change easier to absorb.

Why quarterly upgrades are a win for end users:

• Faster access to new tools, fixes, and workflow improvements. Enhancements that can streamline documentation, ordering, scheduling, reporting, In Basket management, and clinical decision support will reach teams sooner.
• Smaller, more manageable changes that are easier to learn and adopt. Quarterly upgrades reduce the volume of change introduced at one time, helping teams focus on what is most relevant to their workflows.
• Quicker implementation of innovations, including AI-enabled features and Epic optimization opportunities. A more frequent cadence supports earlier testing, piloting, and deployment of capabilities that can reduce administrative burden and improve the end-user experience.

Looking ahead

The July 17 upgrade is more than a single Epic update—it marks the beginning of a faster, more responsive upgrade rhythm for Cook Children’s. By moving to quarterly upgrades, we can bring meaningful improvements to end users sooner, support innovation more effectively, and continue optimizing Epic in ways that make daily work simpler and more efficient.

Thank you to all teams who support testing, training, communication, and readiness for each upgrade. Your partnership helps ensure Cook Children’s continues to make the most of Epic’s evolving capabilities while keeping patient care at the center of every improvement.

Click here to see what clinicians are saying about the move as well as what's coming with the upgrade.

Save the Date: August is Well-being Month at Cook Children’s

Well-being is how people feel about the quality of their lives, including their physical, emotional, and mental health, as well as their ability to be productive and financially secure.

We look forward to sharing the many benefits, resources, programs and classes available to help you thrive at work and at home. You can take part in Well-being Month no matter where you work!

Visit the Well-being CookNet page to learn more about upcoming Beat the Heat Treat events, virtual self-care classes, well-being activities and resources plus ways you can enter a raffle for prizes!

Retirements

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

• Becky Clem, Speech Pathologist, is retiring after 35 years on July 31.
• Marinda Allender, Registered Nurse, is retiring after 43 years on August 1.

To read more about these retirees 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. 

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

View Changes to Medical Benefits Beginning Oct. 1

We have an important update to share about your medical benefits.

Starting Oct. 1, 2026, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) will become Cook Children’s new medical insurance carrier. This change is part of our ongoing commitment to care for our team and their families—just as thoughtfully as we all care for our patients. 

While this is a big change, the goal is simple: To give our teammates more choice and help keep the cost of health care manageable. Please visit Connect Newsroom to learn more about why we are making this change and get helpful resources during this transition. 

CareShare Update: Your Feedback in Action

At Cook Children’s, we regularly seek employee feedback to better understand what’s working well and where we can improve. Because of feedback, we are pleased to share new changes to the CareShare program. 

“CareShare continues to be one of the ways we recognize our collective efforts towards fulfilling our promise,” said Merridth Simpson, Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer. “These updates help ensure the program reflects our shared success as an organization.”

To see what is changing about the CareShare program, visit Connect Newsroom. 

2026 Market Review Update 

We are taking another major step toward advancing our compensation plan and our Promise to regularly review pay to ensure competitiveness and the ability to attract and retain our valued employees.

Now that we have communicated the new Cook Children’s Compensation Philosophy which was created with our core values in mind and completed the external market assessment, we have a better understanding of how the external market rates impact how we deliver pay.

On average, the market assessment results support our goal of paying competitively across all job categories —meaning the majority of our workforce is currently paid at a competitive rate.

If you are not receiving a market adjustment that is an indication that your pay is competitive for the role you perform each day. For others, the market adjustment is the opportunity to increase pay rates for individuals who are paid less than a competitive rate, subject to the following criteria:

• Non-executive, non-physician, PRN, Pool, and Flat Rate positions.
• Regular status (excludes temporary, contingent, or contractor roles).
• Employees in good standing (e.g., no pending final written warnings).
• Employees who have strong or better performance over last two performance and development cycles

Key Dates:

• June 28, 2026 
  Effective date (visibility date will be mid-July) for employees who will receive an adjustment
• July 6, 2026
  Pay changes visible to Leaders.  Leaders will be able to discuss outcomes with employees
• July 13, 2026 
  Employees who receive an adjustment will see the pay change in Workday
• July 17, 2026 
  Pay changes reflected in paychecks for those employees who receive an adjustment

Thank you for your work in caring for our patients and your dedication in helping Cook Children’s deliver on our pinky promise — everything for the child. 

Retirements

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

• Nancy Russell, Nursing Quality Improvement Coordinator, is retiring after 41 years on July 2 - Please join us for a celebration on Wednesday, July 1 in the Hochberger Auditorium Pre-function Area from 2 - 4 p.m.
• Bessie Payton, Unit Secretary of 5 Main, is retiring is retiring after 47 years on July 10.

To read more about Nancy and Bessie along with other recent retirees please visit Team Experience's 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. 

Closing Soon: Selections Due for Peer Feedback

Now Open: Selections for Leader Feedback

Time is winding down to finalize in Workday which teammates you want for Peer Feedback input on your Performance & Development (P&D). The selection process ends June 22.

Team members are required to select at least three and up to seven peers who have worked closely with you and observed your skills. Consider the colleagues who can give objective and thoughtful insights into your job performance since the fiscal year started Oct. 1, 2025.  

Your manager will approve or modify the list of people you select. Managers may add names if there are others whose feedback they want to hear – or they may remove names from your list.

What’s the goal? To gather insights into your strengths and accomplishments on the job. Constructive input can also identify potential areas for improvement. The feedback doesn’t affect your performance review.

Leader Feedback is open now too. Managers should find a task in their Workday inbox to select direct reports to provide feedback. Selections are due by June 29. Leader Feedback is a developmental opportunity for team members to provide insights on their leader’s leadership, coaching and teaming behaviors.

More items on the P&D checklist:

• Complete your FY26 required annual training in ULearn by Aug. 1

• Complete your N-98 respiratory fit test, if required for your role, by Aug. 1

• Provide requested Peer Feedback

Missed the Town Hall? We’ve got you covered

If you couldn’t make it to the latest system Town Hall, don’t worry — we’re breaking the session down into video highlights. Keep an eye out for these segments dropping soon so you can get all the major updates on your own time.

Click here to see the first part of the Town Hall series. Today's segment includes a discussion with:

• Rick W. Merrill, President and CEO of Cook Children's Health Care System
• Amy Knight, Chief Administration Officer
• Merridth Simpson, Senior Vice President of Human Resources

Join A Virtual Occupational Health Educational Event 

In this session you will learn about workers compensation, team safety, and ergonomics in the workplace. The course will take place between 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 18. 

Registration is required through ULearn. See more information on Occupational Health website and click here to sign up. 

Sign up for Stop the Bleed Training

Register for upcoming Stop the Bleed course on Ulearn. These classes have a two-part registration process. 

First, you must finish the American College of Surgeon’s online course, which can be completed by watching associated videos (a 15–20-minute time commitment). Click here to sign up. 

Once the online courses are finished and a comprehension quiz is passed, participants care return to register for the hands-on skills portion in the next step (a 30–40-minute time commitment). You must bring the results of the online quiz to validate completion of the online course.

To register, click here. Below are the dates for the in-person portion of the class. 

• June 17 – 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. in the basement - Pavilion 2 Classroom
• June 30 – 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. in the SimLab
• July 6 – 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. in the basement - Pavilion 5 Classroom
• July 22 – 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. in the basement - Command Center
• Aug. 3 – 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. in the basement - Pavilion 5 Classroom
• Aug. 19 – 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4 p.m. in the basement - Command Center

ICYMI: See our World Cup Newsletter

We hope you are having fun this soccer season. In case you missed it please review the World Cup Newsletter for all things related to the tournament. 

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. 

Cook Children's Patients Will Take World Cup Stage

We are so honored that 12 Cook Children's patients will serve as flag bearers for the first World Cup group-stage match between Japan and the Netherlands on June 14 at Dallas Stadium. We hosted a signing day for the patients to get to know one another and prepare for the international stage. Stay tuned for more coverage on our social media channels and Checkup Newsroom next Wednesday. 

If you want to catch a glimpse of stories that have already appeared in local media, check out the news coverage here:  

• Why 12 Cook Children’s patients will be part of the World Cup – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
• 2 Texas brothers overcome medical challenges to carry flags at 2026 FIFA World Cup | FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth

P&D Starts with Peer Feedback on Job Performance

Performance & Development (P&D) opens this month seeking feedback in Workday from the colleagues who work most closely with you. This phase of the P&D cycle gathers insights into your strengths and accomplishments on the job. Constructive input from your co-workers can also identify potential areas for improvement.  

The feedback isn’t part of merit calculations and won’t affect performance ratings. Instead, the feedback serves as a developmental input to help to improve everyone’s performance and growth. It’s important to know two types and key dates:

Peer Feedback

• Select 3-7 co-workers
• Make your selections June 8-22. Look for a task in your Workday inbox
• Selections subject to manager approval

Leader Feedback

• Select 3-7 direct reports
• Leaders make selections June 15-29
• Selections subject to manager approval

Begin preparing now by giving thoughtful consideration to your selections. Feedback providers will be asked to submit their input in July. Thank you for supporting one another with collaboration and respect as we work to strengthen performance and uphold excellence across the System.

Visit the P&D page on CookNet for a timeline and more information.

Marketing & Communications Win Nine Telly Awards

The Marketing & Communications department has earned two Gold, four Silver and three Bronze leveled Telly Awards for outstanding work. Below are links to the videos that received awards: 

18 Missed Calls - Won a Gold Telly Award and a Silver Telly Award 

My Name is Addy - Won a Gold Telly Award and a Silver Telly Award 

From Leukemia Diagnosis to Triumph: Perry's Story - Won a Bronze Telly Award

The Heart Hero: How a Cook Children’s Surgeon Helped Save a Newborn - Won a Silver Telly Award and a Bronze Telly Award

Golden Deeds - Won a Bronze Telly Award

Reach Your Fitness Goals with Cook Children's 

If you are looking to reach your fitness goals, Cook Children's employees receive various benefits to make achieving your goals easier. 

These benefits include: 

• Wellness Zone
• Texas Health Fitness Center
• GameOn Sports Complex and Arena
• Studio Discounts

For more information, visit Connect Newsroom. 

Sign up For World Cup Celebration of Cultures; a Patient Event 

Get your kicks at a global-themed patient event celebrating the nations competing in the World Cup.  Sign your team up to participate and choose a country from the list provided here. One team per country.

You must email patientevents@cookchildrens.org by Tuesday, June 9 to sign up. Please include team organizer, department, and top three choices of countries. Your country will be confirmed upon submission.

The patient event will take place 10:30 - noon on Tuesday, June 23 at the atrium in the Fort Worth Medical Center. To learn more, click 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. 

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

If You Missed It: Watch Town Hall  

Thank you to all who attended or watched our System Town Hall. If you were unable to attend, please watch the recording of the event here. 

This Town Hall includes: 

• A panel discussion with:
  • Rick Merrill, President and CEO of Cook Children's Health Care System
  • Amy Knight, Chief Administration Officer
  • Merridth Simpson, Senior Vice President of Human Resources
• Details about our new brand awareness campaign
• A walk through our West Tower construction journey
• Clinical discussion with:
  • Jonathan Nedrelow, M.D., Chief Medical Officer
  • Matthew Dzurik, M.D., President of CCPN
  • Corwin Warmink, M.D., Chief Clinical Officer
• World Cup resources and news
• Information Services Update with:
  • Teresa Tonthat, Senior Vice President, Chief Digital Information Officer
  • Kathy Jobes, Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer

Major Construction Impact: Terrell Avenue Between Eighth and Seventh Avenues Closed for Drivers May 18  

Upcoming Street Closure - Beginning May 18, Terrell Avenue between Eighth and Seventh Avenues will be closed. 

• The Terrell Avenue Garage will no longer be accessible from Eighth Avenue. Please use Sixth Avenue via Pennsylvania Avenue or Rosedale Street to access the garage.
• The Eighth & Terrell Garage will still be accessible from both Eighth Avenue and Terrell Avenue.
• The sidewalk on Terrell Avenue will still be accessible allowing staff parking in the Eighth & Terrell Garage to walk down Terrell Avenue and access the Medical Center via the South Tower.

 Please remind patients and families

• The Emergency Department will no longer be accessible from Eighth Avenue.
• Please use Sixth Avenue via Pennsylvania Avenue or Rosedale Street to access the Emergency Department located on Sixth Avenue and Terrell Avenue.

To stay up to date on driving routes bookmark: Construction Updates | Cook Children's Medical Center. 

Sign up for World Cup Preparedness Day

Ahead of the big game, be sure to register for World Cup Preparedness Day, taking place on May 26 at the Hochberger Auditorium at the Medical Center - Fort Worth campus. 

During this training, the course will cover response actions to consider during a potential major incident, emotional safety tips, and other hands-on training. 

Click here to see the full list of what will be offered during Work Cup Preparedness Day. 

Visit the World Cup Resource site located on the top of the CookNet homepage for more information. 

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. 

The Quality of a Career: Celebrating the Legacy of Joann Sanders, M.D.

With a career spanning nearly four decades, Joann Sanders, M.D., CHCQM, FAIHQ, has done more than practice medicine; she has defined the very standards of care we uphold today. As she prepares for her retirement on June 1, 2026, Dr. Sanders leaves behind a legacy built on the belief that for our patients, "good enough" never is. 

Read more about Dr. Sanders' impact and journey on Connect Newsroom. 

Cook Children’s Health Care System Town Hall Scheduled for May 12

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in Hochberger Auditorium.

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 throughout the year. Leaders will connect our work to our Promise and celebrate the journey ahead.

If your schedule or location doesn't permit live attendance, the event will be live-streamed and recorded. To ensure everyone has access to this critical information promptly, plans are for the recording to be distributed via email later that afternoon.

We look forward to discussing our path toward preeminence.  

Untold: Kevin Greene, President of Cook Children’s Medical Center - Prosper

The Untold: The Stories of Cook Children’s, a podcast series, is coming to an end with a final season featuring your colleagues and leaders who live out our Promise daily. 

In this episode we hear from Kevin Greene, President of Cook Children’s Medical Center - Prosper, as he shares a powerful full-circle journey rooted in purpose, perseverance, and passion.  

From childhood memories of watching the iconic blue peaks light up the Fort Worth skyline to leading a brand-new medical center serving thousands of families, Kevin’s story is deeply personal. Inspired by his mother’s career in health care, shaped by early experiences as both a patient and intern, and strengthened through unexpected detours - including selling copiers door-to-door - Kevin’s path is a testament to resilience and calling.  

Click here to watch on Connect Newsroom.

Why 2,800 Pinwheels Are Lining the Paths at Cook Children’s

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The pinwheels help draw attention to the issue and remind caregivers, families, and parents they are not alone. Each pinwheel isn’t just a case or a number; it represents a child. Each of the 1,528 pinwheels represents a visit with Cook Children’s Child Advocacy Resource and Evaluation (C.A.R.E) team due to suspected child abuse in 2025. In Prosper, 1,287 pinwheels illustrate the victims of child abuse in Denton County in 2025.

Thank you to the C.A.R.E. Team which includes social workers, nurses, nurse practitioners, doctors, and medical assistants who live out our Promise to ensure every child is being cared for. Read more about how your colleagues work to prevent child abuse on Checkup Newsroom. 

Retirements 

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

• Susan Hillin, RN, MSN, RN-BC, Director of Clinical Education, is retiring after more than 22 years of service on May 1.
• Noelia Echols, Clinical Quality Improvement Coordinator, is retiring after more than 40 years of service on April 24.

To read more about their 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. 

Building Our Future: Stay Flexible and Friendly

Just like a child getting a "big kid" bed, our Main Campus is having a growth spurt! Thank you for your continued patience and for looking out for one another as we build this exciting future for our patient families and our community. During this time of change, let’s be sure to live by our Cook Children’s values of kindness and generosity.

Learn about the ways we can sprinkle some extra kindness around campus while navigating West Tower construction on Connect Newsroom. 

As a reminder, if you need staff navigation please visit Connect Newsroom.

Vote for Cook Children’s in the People’s Tellys

Three videos created by the Marketing Department at Cook Children's are shortlisted to win a People's Telly Award. To win, we're asking you to vote and rate five stars. You are welcome to vote for more than one video. The deadline for voting is Friday, April 17. 

• 18 Missed Calls: Vote now
• My Name is Addy: Vote now
• The Heart Hero: How a Cook Children’s Surgeon Helped Save a Newborn: Vote now

Lights and Flag Show Support for Organ Donation

Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth will light up in the blue and green colors of Donate Life from April 20-25 to help raise awareness for organ donation.

April is National Donate Life Month, which encourages people to register as organ, eye and tissue donors. More than 100,000 people in the United States are awaiting a transplant. Cook Children’s partners with the procurement organization LifeGift.

A ceremony at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 22, will honor patients who received donated organs and deceased patients who became organ donors. A 12-year-old kidney recipient is planning to share his story at the ceremony, taking place in the Meditation Room on the first floor of the south tower.

Donors at Cook Children’s have provided kidneys, hearts, livers, lungs and other organs for transplant surgeries across Texas and beyond. Their first names and ages are etched into a memorial plaque near the prayer garden. From 2023-2025 at Cook Children’s there were 25 organ donors resulting in 84 organs transplanted, as well as 19 tissue donors.

“As their own hearts are breaking, some families choose courage, generosity and kindness, and mold their searing pain into something that can do good for others,” chaplain Brianna Benzinger said at the 2025 flag raising. “We give thanks for their bravery, their gift, their love in action.”

Go online to register as a donor or stop by the Donate Texas table from 1-3 p.m. on April 22 in Camelot Court Light to learn more. 

Send Us Your Kids' Place Memories

To make way for expansion of Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth, our on-site child development center will be moving to a new building under construction a few blocks away along Ninth Avenue between Cooper and Pruitt streets. Kids’ Place Child Development Center has served the families of Cook Children’s employees since 2001 at its 901 Southland Ave. location. 

Does your family have a connection to Kids' Place? We'd love to see photos of memories of your child's experience at the center. Please send us photos of your child at Kids' Place and don't forget to let us know their name, age at the time of the photo and the year the photo was taken! Please submit your photos by May 8. 

We’ll share some of the photos in the Connect Newsroom, email us at internalcommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

Sign up for Stop the Bleed Training on ULearn

Visit ULearn to sign up for a new education opportunity that features an online training course and then an in-person training session at the SimLab on the Medical Center - Fort Worth campus. 

Dates for the SimLab in-person training include: 

• Tuesday, April 21, 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, April 28, 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, May 8, 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
• Thursday, May 14, 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 2, 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, June 30, 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.

For more information or to sign up, click 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. 

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

Important: Permanent Closure of Dillard Garden and Seventh Avenue Sidewalks

As we move forward with the West Tower construction—a vital expansion to serve our growing community—we are reaching a significant milestone. To allow for the seamless connection between the new West Tower and our existing South Tower, we must permanently close a portion of our campus footprint.

Starting April 14, Dillard Family Garden and Seventh Avenue sidewalks between Cooper Street and Terrell Avenue will be permanently closed.

We recognize that this change impacts the primary route many of you use to navigate between the north and south sides of our campus. While we understand this is a significant adjustment to your daily routine, this step is essential to building a facility that will allow our incredible team to care for even more families across DFW.

To ensure safety and facilitate construction, please note the following pedestrian impacts:

• Seventh Avenue: Sidewalks on both the east and west sides of this section will be permanently closed.
• Cooper Street: The sidewalk on the south side of Cooper Street will remain closed until further notice.
• Alternative Routes: Access to Medical Center-Fort Worth and Dodson Clinics from Terrell Avenue is available via the basement level of Cook Children’s Medical Center or Sixth Avenue.

Though construction brings temporary challenges, the completion of the West Tower will result in a much-improved experience for patient families. Thank you for your patience and for everything you do to provide world-class care. We will share more specific navigation details in upcoming internal communications to help you transition through these changes. For updates on construction impacts on traffic, parking and pedestrian routes, please visit the campus growth page on the Cook Children's website.

Cook Children’s Medicare Resources – Explore, Learn and Get Support

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, but getting the right guidance doesn’t have to be. As part of your benefits through Cook Children’s, you have access to Medicare education and support through our partner, Medicare Choice Group. Here is what is available to you:

On Demand recordings- Learn at your own pace, anytime. These comprehensive webinar sessions are designed to help you better understand how Medicare works and what to consider as you approach eligibility. Once you register, you can access the recordings for the below topics at your convenience here: Medicare Guidance

• Understanding Medicare Coverage Recording
• Effectively Planning Your Medicare Transition Timeline Recording

Helpful Resources - Once you’ve had a chance to review the webinars, you can also explore additional resources through your Cook Children’s Medicare Learning Hub. 
Medicare Learning Hub

1:1 Support - If you’d like to take the next step and speak with a Medicare advisor about your specific situation, you can schedule a one-on-one appointment at no cost to you here:
Schedule an Appointment

Cook Children’s employees and their loved ones who may be approaching Medicare eligibility are eligible for this benefit. Whether you’re planning ahead, getting close to eligibility, or helping a family member, these resources are available to help you every step of the way. 

Recognize Someone Who Lives Out our Promise 

Help us celebrate our Promise in action! The Health Foundation is collecting nominations for team members who live out our Promise values every day—in big ways and small moments. Your responses may be featured in the annual Promise magazine and help shine a light on the people who bring our Promise to life!

Click here to submit your nominations. Please submit your nominations by Wednesday, April 15. 

Have questions? Reach out to Rachel.Hendricks@cookchildrens.org.

Attend the Operational Excellence Summit 

Join the Process Improvement Department in the 2026 Operational Excellence Summit between 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Monday, April 13 at the Medical Center - Fort Worth. 

This event is free to all Cook Children's staff and will feature guest speakers, food and presentations. 

To register, click here. 

Around the System: 

Our very own Diane Arnaout, M.D., a pediatrician at Cook Children’s Pediatrics – Forest Park, is featured on the cover of Fort Worth Magazine’s 2026 “Top Doctors” issue. To read her feature, visit page 62-67 in the Fort Worth Magazine digital issue. 

In the same magazine issue, there is a feature about Christos Papadelis, M.D., and his team of neuroscientists developing an AI-driven tool able to help identify the origin of seizures. To read more, visit page 60-61 in the Fort Worth Magazine digital issue. 

Research Administration and Medical Laboratory team members wore purple to honor International Epilepsy Day. We want to see how teams connect and collaborate throughout the system. Send us your photos to InternalCommunications@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. 

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

Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth Hosting Preparedness Workshop 

Several law enforcement and government agencies will be at Cook Children’s Medical Center- Fort Worth on Friday, April 3 for an emergency preparedness workshop.

The workshop is part of a citywide effort to collaborate and strengthen relationships ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

Led by the Texas Department of Public Safety, the workshop will be a discussion-based tabletop exercise. Cook Children’s is proud to serve as the host for this event. Local, regional, state and federal participation is expected.

Connect with the Cook Children’s Veterans Group

The Cook Children’s Veterans Group (CCVG) provides resources for those directly or indirectly impacted by the uncertainties of global conflict. Whether you or a family member faces a potential deployment, the CCVG is here to support you.   

To read more about what resources are offered to you, visit Connect Newsroom. 

Construction News - Fort Worth Medical Center 

Seventh Avenue Southbound Closed until April 11

AT&T is conducting work on Seventh Avenue between Terrell Avenue and Pulaski Street. The southbound lane will be closed during this time. Recommended alternate is to use Sixth Avenue due to construction on Eighth Avenue. 

To stay up to date on driving routes around the Medical Center-Fort Worth visit: Construction Updates | Cook Children's Medical Center 

Last Call: Presidents' Scholarship Applications Are Open

Applications are open for the 2026 Presidents' Scholarship program. This scholarship is open to dependent children of full-time and half-time Cook Children’s employees in good standing with a minimum of one year of eligible service from the date these applications are due.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on April 6.

To view the full eligibility criteria and application, visit the Human Resources CookNet page. 

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

‘What’s New’ with the Epic Spring Upgrade

Check out ‘What’s New’ – training updates aimed making staying up to date with Epic easier than ever. These updates will be available in one easy-to-access location—and they’ll be customized based on when and where you work within Epic. The updates will be timely, targeted resources designed to support your workflow patterns. 

Epic customizes the content in ‘What’s New’, so you’ll see upgrade education prioritized based on the amount of time you document in the various activities.

You can begin exploring ‘What’s New' starting on April 3. Click here to read more.

Retirement Announcement 

The following are retiring from Cook Children's Health Care System: 

• Beverly McCoy, Radiographer

Thank you for your dedication to patient families and your colleagues, and we wish you the best in your future endeavors. To learn more about Cook Children's employee retirements visit the Team Experience site. 

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. 

Slime-A-Doc 2026: Doctors' Day Celebration Like No Other

Cook Children’s Health Care System celebrated doctors and medical staff on National Doctors' Day, March 30, with its annual Slime-A-Doc event. More than 25 of your colleagues - including family support services staff, doctors, nurses, child life specialists, social workers, advanced practice providers, volunteers, and members of our administrative team - donned their best outfits to find out who would be the “People’s Choice” for a green-slime bath.

Visit Checkup Newsroom to see our photos and see who got slimed! 

Employee Clinic Finalizes Transition to THPG 

The Henderson Employee Clinic is closed from March 30 - April 3 for building updates/team training. The location will reopen for Texas Health Physicians Group (THPG) appointments on April 6. 

Please click here for a helpful FAQ including new THPG locations, information on the clinicians, how to book an appointment, and more. 

Attend Adolescent & Young Adult Virtual Patient Panel 

For adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology patients, experiences through their treatment and life may differ from our younger patients. Learn more about adolescent and young adult patient experience with a virtual panel open to all employees.

The virtual patient panel will be from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. on April 8. This is an accredited activity so clinical staff can receive an hour of CEs for attending. 

To get the webinar link and learn more about the event visit our CookNet calendar. 

For more information about the AYA department visit their CookNet page

Show off Artistic Talent for World Art Day

Do you have a hidden artistic talent that you don’t typically get to show off in your role? This is your moment!

Staff from all departments are invited to participate in an upcoming chalk art festival and show off their skills at the Medical Center - Fort Worth on April 15. No experience is required; this is just a fun event in honor of World Art Day. It’s all about creativity and making a fun event for patients and families to enjoy. 

Sign up solo or as a team to create a chalk art drawing in an assigned square and help us add a little color to the sidewalks. 

If you are not at the Medical Center - Fort Worth you can still join by drawing with chalk and submitting a picture to Creativeartsprogram@cookchildrens.org

Sign up here: Chalk Art Festival

In the News: A Touching Reunion of a Patient and Oncologist 

In a heartwarming “full circle moment,” Paul Bowman, M.D., retired Cook Children's oncologist, recently reunited with a patient he first treated three decades ago. This touching story, featured in the Fort Worth Report, showcases the lasting impact of our compassionate care and dedication to patients. 

You can read the full story of their emotional meeting and the journey that brought them back together, in the Fort Worth Report. 

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. 

Updated Process: Business Structure Transfers at the Time Clock

Starting Wednesday, March 25, the process for transferring time to a different Business Structure (the term replacing “Cost Center”) will change.

While you can still use the UKG Pro WFM desktop application, the physical time clocks now include a dedicated option for these transfers. 

To Complete a Transfer at the Clock:

1. Locate the Option: Scroll to the second page of the clock screen.
2. Select Business Structure Transfer: Tap the button and follow the prompts to select your location, unit, and role.
3. Confirm: Ensure you receive the confirmation message that your transfer was accepted.

For step-by-step visuals on transferring or standard punching (Clock In/Out and Breaks), please review the Quick Reference Guide.

Key Reminders for the Time Clock:

• Action First: Always select the specific button on the screen (Clock In, Start Break, etc.) before tapping your badge.
• Break Attestation: When clocking out for the day, the clock will ask you to confirm if you received an uninterrupted 30-minute break.
• Early Returns: If you end a break early, the system will ask for confirmation before processing the punch.

Please click here for a tip sheet that explains how you can use the clock to punch in and out for your shift.

Mid-Year Check-ins Deadline Approaching

Mid-year check-ins are due Sunday, March 29, 2026.

This is the opportunity for you and your leader to reflect on progress, align priorities and discuss any development needed for the remainder of the year. Your active participation is important to making these conversations meaningful and productive.

Visit the Performance & Development CookNet site for more information including updated Mid-Year Check-in job aids and the full Performance & Development timeline.

Recognize Someone Who Lives Out our Promise 

Help us celebrate our Promise in action! The Health Foundation is collecting nominations for team members who live out our Promise values every day—in big ways and small moments. Your responses may be featured in the annual Promise magazine and help shine a light on the people who bring our Promise to life!

Click here to submit your nominations. Please submit your nominations by Wednesday, April 15. 

Have questions? Reach out to Rachel.Hendricks@cookchildrens.org.

Snacks, Pigeons and Creativity: T-Shirts for Sale

A new patient art shirt is now available. The design features artwork created by one of our talented patient artists, and a portion of each purchase supports the Creative Arts Program, helping to provide meaningful artistic opportunities for patients throughout the hospital.

You can purchase the shirt at The Enchanted Castle Gift Shop. The cost is $24. If you are not at the Fort Worth Medical Center, fill out the Enchanted-Castle-T-Shirt-Order-Form and send to enchantedcastle@cookchildrens.org. Your shirt will be sent to your Cook Children's location through interoffice mail. With this method, employees must have their badge set up as a method of payment to purchase.

Presidents' Scholarship Applications Are Open

Applications are open for the 2026 Presidents' Scholarship program. This scholarship is open to dependent children of full-time and half-time Cook Children’s employees in good standing with a minimum of one year of eligible service from the date these applications are due.

The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on April 6.

To view the full eligibility criteria and application, visit the Human Resources CookNet page. 

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

Retirement Announcement

Christina Arnold, RN, Cook Children's Pediatric Specialties Waco, is retiring from Cook Children’s Health Care System after more than 34 years of service on March 27.

Christy started as a tech in the Emergency Department at Cook Children’s. After becoming a registered nurse, she worked on the surgery floor, NICU, PACU and finally at Cook Children's Pediatric Specialties Waco. Christy is an invaluable part of the team, and we are grateful for her kindness, integrity and unwavering commitment.  

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 CookNet site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

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

Keeping Our Focus: Guidelines for Outside Employment

At the heart of our organization is a commitment to excellence and the well-being of our patient families. To ensure we continue to provide the highest level of care and service, we are introducing updated guidelines for employees regarding Outside (Dual) Employment.

Whether you’re a physician, an Advanced Practice Provider, or any member of our clinical or non-clinical staff, these guidelines are designed to help you balance external opportunities with your vital role here at Cook Children’s.

For more information, please visit Connect Newsroom. 

Don’t Miss Out: Use Your $25 Quarterly Health Allowance 

Cook Children’s employees enrolled in a Meritain Health medical plan have a $25 quarterly allowance to spend on over-the-counter health care products with OTC Health Solutions, and it’s free to use.

Order online at https://www.cvs.com/benefits or download the OTC Health Solutions app and get over-the-counter products delivered straight to you at no extra cost.

Don’t let your allowance go to waste this cold and flu season. Stock up on essentials like pain relievers, cold medicine, nasal spray, and much more.

For more information, please visit the Human Resources CookNet page and scroll down to the OTC Benefits section.

Renaissance NHC Dental Team Sparkles during National Children’s Dental Health Month

At our Cook Children's Neighborhood Health Center Renaissance, the Dental team works daily to provide sparkling expertise and care to our patients. Every day, their commitment to high-quality care plays a vital role in our patients' health and well-being.

Visit Connect Newsroom to comment a message to our Renaissance Dental team.  

Join The Blast on March 28

Get ready to BLAST away cancer!

The Blast is Cook Children’s annual family-friendly walk, raising funds and awareness for childhood cancer. Join us on March 28 at Panther Island Pavillion in Fort Worth for fun and fellowship, and to make a difference for our patients. Register as an employee for a discount.

Together, we can show Cook Children’s pediatric patients with cancer that they never walk alone.

Sign up for the Cook Children’s staff team here: The Blast 2026: Cook Children's Healthcare System - Cook Children's Health Foundation

For more information about the event visit blastwalk.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. 

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

Final Reminders Before First Payroll Run in UKG

• Staff:
  • Make sure your timecards are correct! You can correct missed punches, but it is critical this is done in time for your manager to approve the pending change.
  • You can now approve your own timecard (optional not mandatory), which tells your manager the punches are correct from your perspective. Please note, if you approve your timecard, your manager can no longer correct errors unless you remove approval.
• Managers/Leaders:
  • Reminder that Payroll deadlines for Monday are different starting Feb. 23. Please visit Connect Newsroom to revisit the news.
  • Approve your staff’s pending changes and timecards sooner than later to ensure paychecks will be correct.
    • Please note this tip sheet provides two different ways to approve timecards: a summary view (bulk approve) and a detailed timecard view.  UKG-Address Notifications, Missed Punches, and Approve Timecards
  • Please check out the  Dataview Library if you have not yet, there are many helpful ways to look at data, such as:
    • 0-ST Accrual Details-Basic showing current PTO balances of your staff.
    • 0-ST Time Off Requests Info showing all PTO requests (NOTE a Hyperfind can be used to see non-direct reports’ PTO in your department).
  • For other tips on approving PTO, review this tip sheet UKG-Manage Employee Time Off Requests.aspx.
  • Reminder that in UKG, managers must manually add all attendance occurrences. Missed punches no longer automatically apply occurrences. These tip sheets provide more details: UKG-Review Attendance Balances.aspx UKG-Manage Attendance Balances.aspx.
  • The manage timecards tile on the UKG homepage will now show ONLY your direct reports. When you open the activity, by clicking the arrow, you can still use Hyperfind to see timecards for different staff in your department.
  • Remember to join a drop-in session on Friday or Monday if you have any questions! Zoom links are on the right side of the UKG CookNet Resources page. 

1095-C Forms are Available in Workday

Every benefits-eligible employee under the Cook Children's benefit plan is required to receive a 1095-C form, even if you didn't participate in the plan. You don't need it to file your taxes but keep it for your records.

Employees who have elected to receive a paper copy will have their 1095-C mailed to their home address. Electronic copies are available to all employees and can be accessed in Workday by typing “My ACA Forms” in the search bar.

Changes to Ntracts Coming Soon

Since 2019, Cook Children’s has used Ntracts as its contract management system. It currently holds approximately 12,000 contracts for business conducted across all Cook Children's entities. For the first time in six years, Ntracts is being upgraded. Starting on March 16, Ntracts users will see a new URL to log in and a new Dashboard to show you a snapshot of which contracts or renewals are in your queue to review. If you use the workflow functionality, it will also be upgraded to a more modern look that adds visibility to each step. Security will be upgraded as well.

Please be on the lookout for classes to be scheduled for the week of March 9-13. Please contact Kerri Albert with any questions in the meantime.

Receive Your LinkedIn Verification

Trust is the most important thing we build at Cook Children’s, and today, that trust has a new seal.

We are proud to announce that our LinkedIn page is now officially verified. While it looks like a simple badge, it represents something much larger: our commitment to providing a safe, reliable space for communicating effectively and authentically with our families and partners.

This milestone also brings an exciting update for our team. Every Cook Children’s employee can now add a workplace verification badge to their own personal profile using their work email.

It is always a joy to see our employees representing our mission with such professionalism. If you’ve already added your badge, or if you’re planning to today, it’s a great way to show the strength of our community. 

A step-by-step guide to workplace verification via LinkedIn. (Takes fewer than two minutes to complete.)

1. Navigate to your LinkedIn profile via desktop or mobile app.
2. Select “add verification badge” located next to your name. OR select the resources button (three ellipses on mobile, then resources), then select “about this profile.” Under the “Verifications” section, select verify.
3. Select “verify using your workplace.”
4. Enter your Cook Children’s email address.
5. Enter the code that is emailed to you. (This may take up to several minutes to arrive).

Employee Spotlight: Valerie Bilton Creates Joy during Heart Month

February is Heart Month and we have several ways we celebrate with our patients, families and staff. For Valerie Bilton, RN, a night shift nurse in the Cardiac Stepdown unit, she brings joy through her art. For Heart Month, she decorated the doors of our patients with her amazing artwork. She also decorates the doors throughout the holiday season, and her creative passion creates a warm welcoming environment. 

Take a peek at her creative artwork on Connect Newsroom and thank you Valerie for bringing your creative skills to our patients' door! 🎨💖

Support Creative Arts Program with Purchase of “Tree of Love” T-shirt 

A new t-shirt featuring patient artwork is available at the Enchanted Gift Shop. Titled “Tree of Love,” the shirt costs $20. Proceeds from sales will go towards supporting the Creative Arts Program here at Cook Children's. Please note that there is a limited stock and not all sizing will be available. 

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. 

Updated: Important Go-Live Information for UKG Pro WFMW

We've updated the UKG Pro Workforce Management page to include the latest essential information for both team members and managers to know how to use this tool. 

From understanding the ins and outs of your timecard to how to get support, we've gathered all the "must-knows" in one place. 

Visit Connect Newsroom for more information. 

View the First Quarter Peak Performers 

Congratulations to Cook Children's employees who have been named First Quarter Peak Performers. They were selected for their above and beyond work in quality, safety and service. 

This list celebrates exceptional employees across the Cook Children’s Health Care System like Yessenia Mata, QI Assistant HP, Quality. The tribute to Yessenia describes her skill as a problem solver: “It’s like she saw a wall and thought, “Why not build a door?” Then, she handed us all the key. She reviews every task with care, never cutting corners … always connecting dots.” To read more about Yessenia and see who else made the list, visit the Team Experience CookNet site.

If you wish to nominate a colleague for next quarter, click here 

Meet Pina Saputo of Travel Services 

Did you know that Cook Children's has a Travel Services department? It's true! Meet Pina Saputo, a Senior Travel Agent.

Visit Connect Newsroom to meet Pina and learn more about the Travel Services department.  

Join the Challenge: Personify Health Trailblazing Around Texas 

Ready to join the newest Personify Health challenge? If so, join the Texas Trailblazing Steps Challenge! Already have an account? Click here to log into Personify.

Log in Troubleshooting Tips

1. Enter your Cook Children’s email as your username.

2. Click out of the box after you enter your email/username and you should automatically be taken to the Cook Children’s Secure Single Sign On page.

3. Enter your employee ID number with letters and leading zeros and your Cook password that you use to log into your computer.

If you don't have an account, click here to enroll in Personify.

Understanding the Roth Impact on Savings and Taxes

An upcoming webinar from Fidelity addresses the different types of tax-advantaged contributions you can make to your workplace savings plan. Let the experts from Fidelity teach you the difference between a Roth IRA and the Roth option – and help you understand how various contributions can affect your paycheck and taxes. This webinar is offered at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

Register Here

You’ll earn 100 Personify Health Points as an added benefit of participating. Points may be cashed in for gift cards through the Cook Children’s employee wellness program.

Don't Forget … 

Nominate a Sepsis Superhero for the 2026 Clover Award

We’re calling on you to help honor a Cook Children’s Sepsis Superhero during Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 9–12. Deadline for submission is Monday, Feb. 16. To submit your nomination for the Clover Award, click here. 

Research Week Events 

Learn more about the utility of non-pharmacological interventions in pediatric acquired demyelinating disorders at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb.17, at the Hochberger Auditorium at the Medical Center-Fort Worth. Register for the event here. 

Next, discover the life cycle of research at an event scheduled for 1 - 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at the Medical Center - Fort Worth in the Atrium. This is a special event for employees, families and patients, and registration is not required.  

Finally, attend a Research Symposium being held 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 19 and 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 20, at Medical Center - Fort Worth in the Hochberger Auditorium. To register for the Symposium please click 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. 

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

Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program Earns National Accreditation

The Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) program at Cook Children’s has earned national accreditation from the Adult Congenital Heart Association (ACHA) in recognition of high-quality comprehensive care for adults born with cardiac defects. 

The ACHA is a national organization begun by and dedicated to supporting individuals and families living with congenital heart disease and advancing the care and treatment available to the ACHD community.

The accreditation puts Cook Children’s in the top tier of programs across the country.

“I am very proud of the work that our team has accomplished in receiving accreditation from the ACHA,” said Scott M. Pilgrim, M.D., the program’s medical director. “The need to develop a comprehensive ACHD program serves as a testament to the many decades of phenomenal pediatric cardiac surgery and pediatric cardiology care here at Cook Children’s. We are honored to be able to extend the Cook Children’s Promise to this growing and vulnerable population.”

Read more on Connect Newsroom. 

Hope for the Holidays: New Health Center Earns Multiple Top Honors for Transforming Care

This holiday season, Las Vegas Trail area residents are experiencing a new chapter of wellness and hope, thanks to an award-winning collaboration bringing health services close to their west Fort Worth neighborhood, which has long been known as both a health care and food desert.

Since the new Neighborhood Health Center serving the Las Vegas Trail area opened its doors, thousands have received health care services through the partnership of Cook Children’s Health Care System and JPS Health Network. 

Click here to read about the outstanding collaboration featured in D CEO's 2025 Excellence in Healthcare Awards.

Dr. John Robertson Named a Finalist for D CEO Excellence in Healthcare Awards

John Robertson, M.D., pulmonologist, was named a finalist for the “Outstanding Healthcare Innovator” award in the D CEO 2025 Excellence in Healthcare Awards, which recognize achievement and impact of health care in North Texas. 

To learn more about this achievement and the innovative work Dr. Robertson leads at the Exercise Respiratory Center at Cook Children’s – Prosper, please visit the Connect Newsroom. 

Time Clock Update — Badge Tapping Begins Dec. 15

As part of our move toward a new UKG Workforce Management system launching in 2026, we are making an update to the way everyone clocks in and out.

Starting midnight on Monday Dec. 15, you will no longer use the handheld scanner to clock in and out. Instead: 

• Tap your employee badge on the blue icon on the right side of the timeclock to clock in and out.
• If you experience issues with badge tapping, it may be because you have not turned in your old badge.
  • Please use your new badge and return your old badge to your leader.
  • You can always clock in and out on a computer if needed.

Where Is It Happening? The Fort Worth Medical Center campus and associated buildings (including Calmont, Child Study Center, etc.), clinics across the system, UCCs, and the Prosper Medical Center. There are a couple of locations which will experience a slightly different rollout process, and they have been sent communication about this. 

Why This Change?
This is the next step toward a more modern and consistent timekeeping experience across the organization — with a simplified tap-to-clock process that will continue once UKG is live. No setup or badge activation is required; your existing badge already supports this functionality.

If you have questions, please submit a ServiceNow ticket.

Cook Children’s Health Care System Town Hall Scheduled for Dec. 18

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in Hochberger Auditorium.

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. Leaders will connect our work to our Promise and celebrate the journey ahead.

If you are able to attend, please tune in to be a part of the live audience to experience the discussion in real-time. For those whose schedules or locations do not permit live attendance, the event will be live-streamed and recorded.  You will receive the live-stream link before the event and it will be posted on the scrolling banner on the homepage of CookNet. 

To ensure everyone has access to this critical information promptly, the recording will be distributed via email later that afternoon.

Need Some Holiday Cheer? View the Puppy Cam! 

The Sit…Stay…PLAY facility dog program wants to spread some holiday cheer with the latest live puppy cam of future working dogs! The most recent litter had nine puppies and who knows, one of these puppies could be a future member of the Cook Children’s team! 

Tune into the live puppy cam while you are taking a break and need some holiday joy. 

Click here to view the Puppy Cam. 🐶🐾

Under the Peaks: 12 days of Merry Savings

Throughout the month of December, unwrap great deals at Under the Peaks! Each day will have a different sale for you to enjoy this holiday season. 

Visit Connect Newsroom to see the full details.

Facility Dog Neely's Retirement Shirt

While you are shopping at Under the Peaks, consider purchasing a t-shirt marking the retirement of our Facility Dog, Neely, a beloved fixture at Cook Children’s since March 2019. Proceeds from each $24 shirt will go toward the Facility Dog program.

To read more about Neely and Jill Koss, Director of Family Support Services, visit the Connect Newsroom.

 *This shirt may be excluded from any holiday discounts.

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. 

High-Fives and Holiday Cheer: Dallas Cowboys Bring Christmas to Cook Children's Patients

The Dallas Cowboys stopped by for their annual visit with Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth patients. Football players and cheerleaders arrived bearing stockings with goodies, and they posed for pictures and signed official autographed photos. Then, they surprised several patients and their families with personal visits to their rooms. 

Everyone was so excited to greet the team and wish them luck as the season continues! 

Click here to view photos. 

Spreading Joy, Texas Rangers Style: Cook Children's Gets a Special Holiday Visit

The Texas Rangers recently brought smiles to patients at Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth. The visit included players, coaches, staff, the Shooting Stars dancers, and Rangers Captain the mascot. 

Click here to view photos. 

D Magazine CEO's Excellence in Healthcare Awards

After years of outreach, data analysis and listening to the community, two leading health systems have come together under one roof for the first time to meet the needs of Fort Worth families, according to a statement from D Magazine.

Cook Children’s Health Care System and JPS Health Network earned the Outstanding Healthcare Collaboration award from D Magazine for work in the Las Vegas Trail area. The community effort features a teaching kitchen, food pantry, job training space, and a Fort Worth Police storefront staffed alongside health workers from both systems.

To read D Magazine's article, click here. Stay tuned for a story about the award-winning collaboration on the Connect Newsroom.

Cook Children’s Health Care System Town Hall Scheduled for Dec. 18

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in Hochberger Auditorium.

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. Leaders will connect our work to our Promise and celebrate the journey ahead.

If you are able to attend, please tune in to be a part of the live audience to experience the discussion in real-time. For those whose schedules or locations do not permit live attendance, the event will be live-streamed and recorded. To ensure everyone has access to this critical information promptly, the recording will be distributed via email later that afternoon.

Last Call: Abstracts due for Research Symposium on Dec. 15 

The Research Symposium, scheduled for February 2026, celebrates the groundbreaking research happening under our blue peaks to improve the well-being of every child in our care and communities. Be a part of this inspiring gathering as we honor the dedication of Cook Children’s clinicians, scientists and collaborators, all committed to doing everything for the child. All abstracts must be turned in by midnight on Dec. 15.

Click here to submit an abstract. 

For more information about the in-person Research Symposium on Feb. 19-20 please visit: 2026 Research Symposium

View Photos from Jingle Mingle 

Full hearts and full stomachs! Employees gathered in Prosper and Fort Worth for the Cook Children's Jingle Mingle events. We captured photos of all the fun. 

Folks at Calmont, you're up next. Mark your calendars for Jingle Mingle on Dec. 10. 

Visit Connect Newsroom to view photos. 

Retirement Announcement 

Sue Eades, Executive Assistant II for Peds Pal is retiring from Cook Children’s Health Services Inc. on Dec. 31. 

Sue joined Cook Children’s in June of 1999.  26 years later, she will be retiring at the end of this year.  During her time with Cook Children’s, she has been fully dedicated to our mission to improve the lives of children – not only locally, but nationally, by being an important part of the creation and growth of PedsPal, our national GPO.  She has been my Executive Assistant for all 24 of my years here at Cook Children’s and has made my time here a pleasure by helping Cook Children’s Physician Network and now Cook Children's Health Services Inc. run smoothly.  As you can imagine, her role evolved over time, and she managed every transition with grace and skill. 

“Perhaps more importantly, Sue is viewed by many as their work mom.  She is a great listener and trusted advisor and will be missed by all.  We have been blessed to have been able to work with Sue and wish her great happiness as she enjoys retirement,” Vice President of Health Services, Ryan Champlin said. 

We encourage you to take a moment to send Sue a farewell note by December 30.

Share Your Holiday Fun

The holidays are here, and we want to see how Cook Children's teams are celebrating across the state!

Whether you're decking the halls in Fort Worth, Prosper, or any other Texas location, share a photo of your office or department's festive celebrations. 

Please email your photo to InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org and tell us which location/department your team is celebrating from. For example, "Home Health Houston," “Abilene Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic," etc.

We will post are excited to see your festive photos! 

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. 

Cook Children’s Health Care System Town Hall Scheduled for Dec. 18

Please join us for a Town Hall event at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, in Hochberger Auditorium.

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. Leaders will connect our work to our Promise and celebrate the journey ahead.

If you are able to attend, please join us to be a part of the live audience to experience the discussion in real-time. For those whose schedules or locations do not permit live attendance, the event will be live-streamed and recorded. To ensure everyone has access to this critical information promptly, the recording will be distributed via email later that same afternoon.

Know Before You Go: Holiday Extravaganza

Get ready to be enchanted by one of the most heartwarming holiday celebrations of the season! Holiday Extravaganza brings festive fun and holiday cheer to Medical Center-Fort Worth. 

On Saturday Dec. 6, Santa will visit the Atrium at 3 p.m. and the line will close at 4:45 p.m. At 5 p.m., gather outside for an event with live music, tree lighting, fireworks, and a surprise show. 

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all of our patients, families, staff, and guests, your cooperation is absolutely essential. 

Due to the nature of this large event, there will be traffic closures and pedestrian closures on and around the Fort Worth campus.

• Please follow all posted signs and directions from traffic control officers, staff, and volunteers.
• Be mindful of sidewalk and crosswalk closures and avoid entering closed-off areas.
• Being safe is the top priority. Please be patient and cautious around the campus, both in your vehicle and on foot. Your mindfulness helps us maintain a secure environment for everyone. 

For more information about vehicle and pedestrian traffic updates around Medical Center-Fort Worth visit: Construction Updates.

Clinical Nutrition Supports Community; Fosters Collaboration and Generosity 

The Clinical Nutrition department accepted Cook Children’s heartfelt call to action in supporting our community during the SNAP funding crisis by hosting a food drive for the West Aid Food Pantry at the Las Vegas Trail Neighborhood Health Center. In just two weeks, the department collected over 2,500 items, which will help feed more than 150 families. 

In true Cook Children’s fashion, our generosity expanded beyond the Clinical Nutrition team. Many other departments heard about the food drive and jumped at the opportunity to support area families during this time of need.

The Clinical Nutrition department would like to give a thank you to the following teams for their collaborative spirit and generosity during this food drive: Pharmacy, Dodson Gastroenterology, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, and the Miller, Renaissance, and Richland Hills Neighborhood Clinics.

Cook Children's Earns Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence Designation

Cook Children's Medical Center- Fort Worth has been awarded the Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence (DICOE) designation by the American College of Radiology (ACR) – the highest level of recognition for imaging quality and patient safety in the nation. 

Out of thousands of ACR- accredited imaging sites nationwide, only about 500 have earned this elite distinction. Earning this prestigious designation means our program has demonstrated excellence in every critical area: physician leadership and expertise, advanced technology and equipment, rigorous quality and safety processes, radiation dose optimization, and an unwavering commitment to the patient experience.

Thank you to the radiologists, technologists, medical physicists, and entire imaging team whose dedication made this milestone possible.

Shop Cook Children's Online Retail Store for Holidays 

Find the perfect gifts or just treat yourself this holiday season. Check out our online store and give the gift of Cook Children’s swag. Place your orders today to receive items in time for your celebrations.

Click here to find official merchandise, including clothes, bags, cards, and items featuring Peaks the Dragon. 

ICYMI: Self-Install Microsoft 365 Apps

We’re transitioning to the latest Microsoft 365 (M365) desktop applications. You can now install Microsoft 365 apps on your own and at a time that is convenient for you. But don’t wait too long. All users will need to complete this installation before Cook Children’s upgrades to the Windows 11 platform in January.

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn what you need to know before installation.

Share Your Holiday Fun

The holidays are here, and we want to see how Cook Children's teams are celebrating across the state!

Whether you're decking the halls in Fort Worth, Prosper, or any other Texas location, share a photo of your office or department's festive celebrations. 

Please email your photo to InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org and tell us which location/department your team is celebrating from. For example, "Home Health Houston," “Abilene Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic," etc.

We are excited to see your festive photos! 

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. 

UKG Pro Workforce Management to Replace Kronos

Cook Children's is making a major upgrade to scheduling and timekeeping tools. In February 2026, we will launch a new system: UKG Pro Workforce Management.

This powerful new platform will replace our current system, UKG Workforce Central, what some of you may still refer to as Kronos. Think of it as trading in an older model for a sleek, modern sports car designed for efficiency and ease of use.

Please click here for all the details on this system from Kym French, Director of Payroll Services. 

This change will impact our employees who use a time clock. 

What’s Happening?

• We are installing new time clocks across the Fort Worth campus, clinics, Urgent Care Centers, and the Prosper campus over the next few weeks.
• For now, employees will use a temporary hand-held scanner to scan the barcode on the back of your employee badge when clocking in and out.
• Later in the project, we will move to a tap-to-clock process using your badge. More information will be shared before the project is launched. 

Why This Matters
The new time clocks are part of our work to provide a more modern, consistent, and user-friendly timekeeping experience across the organization.

If you have any questions, please submit a request through ServiceNow.

Thank you for everything you do for our patients, families, and one another.

Hope Has a Home Here: Anna Claire's Story

Take a moment to read about the Beavers family, who at just 20 weeks pregnant, learned their baby girl had hypoplastic left heart syndrome and Turner syndrome. With this combination of medical complexities, most hospitals refuse to treat with the Norwood procedure because of the high risk. But Cook Children’s embraces caring for children with even the most complex conditions.

The family searched the country for hope and found it in Fort Worth. They temporarily relocated so their daughter could be born near Cook Children’s, and within 24 hours of birth, Anna Claire underwent her first open-heart surgery.

To learn more about Anna Claire's story click here. 

Safety Reminder and Details for Holiday Extravaganza

For our Holiday Extravaganza festivities, please do not attempt to view fireworks from any Cook Children’s parking garages. It's important that ample, safe, and close parking is available for our patient families and for the employees and medical transport teams who are working on site. Employees should park in your regular designated garage. Please help us keep the other garages open for patient families.

In addition, please adhere to any road or sidewalk closures, as well as all traffic cones or barricades that may reroute your typical walking or driving patterns. These are placed in accordance to required safety zones and it's important we follow all requirements to ensure a safe and successful show. 

Holiday Extravaganza details: 

Join us from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, for a night of holiday activities -- including a visit with Santa from 3 to 4:45 p.m. -- outdoor games, live performances, and a spectacular fireworks show. 

In exchange for your photo with Santa, please bring a new, unwrapped infant toy that we can share with our patients and families. Our patients' favorite infant items include: Wubbanubs, musical and light up toys, rattles, board books, shape sorters, and teethers.

Jingle Mingle: Celebrate the Season Together!

The holidays are here and so is Jingle Mingle, an annual tradition of coming together to enjoy great food, as we take time to connect and celebrate the spirit of the season. All Cook Children’s employees are invited to join the fun, whether by attending an in-person celebration or utilizing funds provided for off-site and fully remote teams. 

For IDT forms, virtual contest, and full event information, please visit the Team Experience CookNet site.

Join us for APP Fellowship Program Informational Session 

Transform your career in just 10 short months through the Cook Children’s APP Fellowship Program. This fellowship is designed to support the clinical and professional growth of highly motivated nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Learn more about the APP Fellowship at an informational session at 4 p.m. on Dec. 4. 

For more information visit Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Fellowship Program. 

A Reminder About Special Visitors to Cook Children's

We are excited that we will once again be hosting notable athletes, celebrities, and others who generously give their time to visit Cook Children's patients during the holidays. Please remember that these visits are for our patients.  

The Child Life team works hard to organize these events so that every patient in the hospital has the opportunity to participate. As employees of Cook Children’s, it is our responsibility to represent Cook Children's in a professional manner. None of us should approach the visitors, nor should we ask for autographs, photos, memorabilia, or contact information.  

Cook Children's values the relationships that we have created with these special visitors, and we are proud of the quality experiences we are able to provide for our patients and their families. Your cooperation in making this year successful is greatly appreciated.

As a reminder, please take a moment to review our Social Media policy. You must be on the network to view the policy.

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. 

Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth Achieves Fifth Magnet Designation

Drumroll, please! For the fifth consecutive time, Cook Children’s Medical Center - Fort Worth has achieved a Magnet designation from the American Nursing Credentialing Center. Please visit the Magnet Recognition Program CookNet page to view the document submitted for the designation, along with Nursing Excellence Categories including fundamentals of quality nursing care, resources and staffing, leadership responsiveness, professional development and teamwork.

Visit Checkup Newsroom to see the full story and a video all about this incredible achievement. Congratulations! 

Town Hall on Dec. 18: We Want to Hear from You

Mark your calendars for the next Town Hall at 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 18, in the Hochberger Auditorium at the Medical Center - Fort Worth. 

Before the Town Hall, we want to hear from you. Please submit questions or topics you would like our leaders to address during the Town Hall to InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

Revised Parking Garage Flow Alert: Seventh & Pennsylvania 

Please be aware of a recent directional change in the 7th and Pennsylvania parking garage.

Between Nov. 22-23, the ramp from Level 2 to Level 3 will be closed. All regular parking will still be available during this time.

We understand this will be a change from the usual route, so please pay extra attention to the arrows and new signage to ensure a smooth flow of traffic. Flagmen will be on-site to help direct traffic. 

Click here for the latest construction and parking garage updates.

Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to upgrade the ramp this weekend. Drive safe!

ICYMI: Self-Install Microsoft 365 Apps

We’re transitioning to the latest Microsoft 365 (M365) desktop applications. You can now install Microsoft 365 apps on your own and at a time that is convenient for you. But don’t wait too long. All users will need to complete this installation before Cook Children’s upgrades to the Windows 11 platform in early 2026.

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn what you need to know before installation. 

Shop Nothing Bundt Cakes, give Back to Health Foundation 

Cook Children’s Health Foundation invites you to shop Nothing Bundt Cakes between 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21. Come shop at Camelot Light Court, the space in front of Camelot Court at the Medical Center-Fort Worth, where 15% of all sales will support the Cook Children’s Health Foundation. 

Nothing Bundt Cakes will be selling Bundtlets and boxes of Bundtinis and will be accepting cash, card and Apple Pay.  

Share Your Content with Us

There will not be a newsletter shared next week but be sure to send us any holiday stories ideas. 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 the Connect Newsroom website. 

Reminder: Merit Increases for Eligible Employees 

As a reminder, now that the performance and development process has completed, Cook Children’s executive leadership has granted merit increases that are effective, Nov. 16, 2025, for eligible employees hired before June 15, 2025. Employees are now able to see their pay changes in Workday, and increases will be reflected in the Dec. 5 paycheck. 

The annual performance review process sets aside time and space for employees to have meaningful conversations with their leaders that focus on accomplishments, opportunities for improvement and career development. We hope that those discussions were impactful and we thank you for the time and thought that you invested in the process. Your engagement helps us maintain a culture of accountability and continued growth.   

This year’s merit increase awards are based on the performance period, which is Oct 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025. Merit increases are prorated based on hire date. Employees hired after the June 15, 2025, cutoff will be eligible for a merit increase in the following year.

Cook Children’s executive leadership is excited to grant merit increases based on performance ratings as follows:

Overall Performance Rating = Exceptional              Merit Increase Amount = 4%
Overall Performance Rating = Strong                        Merit Increase Amount = 3%
Overall Performance Rating = Inconsistent             Merit Increase Amount = 0.5%

Thank you for the dedication, compassion and resilience you’ve shown throughout the year. Your commitment to our patients, families and each other make all the difference.

Please click here to access the FAQ for answers to common questions related to merit increases, eligibility, proration, etc. If you still have questions, please connect with your immediate supervisor.   

New Time Clocks Coming Soon

The way you clock in and clock out may look different heading into the new year. Beginning this week, you may see new time clocks installed in various locations across the organization.

What’s Happening?

• We are installing new timeclocks across the Fort Worth campus, clinics, Urgent Care Centers, and the Prosper campus over the next few weeks.
• For now, employees will use a temporary hand-held scanner to scan the barcode on the back of their employee badge when clocking in and out.
• Later in the project, we will change to a tap-to-clock process that uses your badge. More information will be shared before the project is launched. 

Why This Matters
The new time clocks are part of our work to provide a more modern, consistent, and user-friendly timekeeping experience across the organization.

If you have any questions, please submit a request through ServiceNow.

Thank you for everything you do for our patients, families and one another.

Jingle Mingle: Celebrate the Season Together!

The holidays are here and so is Jingle Mingle, our annual tradition of coming together to enjoy great food, as we take time to connect and celebrate the spirit of the season! All Cook Children’s employees are invited to join the fun, whether attending an in-person celebration or utilizing funds provided for off-site and fully remote teams. For IDT forms, virtual contest, and full event information, please visit the Team Experience CookNet site.

Join Us for Holiday Extravaganza on Saturday, Dec. 6

Get ready for a festive evening of fun and holiday cheer at our annual Holiday Extravaganza. Join us from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, for a night of holiday activities, including a visit with Santa from 3 to 4:45 p.m., outdoor games, live performances, and a spectacular fireworks show. Plus, we have one more surprise to light up the sky, but you will have to attend to find out more. 

Please tune in to the Cook Children's Facebook page at about 6:15 p.m. for a live stream of the fireworks show and festivities.

In exchange for your photo with Santa, please bring a new, unwrapped infant toy that we can share with our patients and families. Our patients' favorite infant items include: Wubbanubs, musical and light up toys, rattles, board books, shape sorters, and teethers.

Parking: Employees should please park in your regular designated garage. Please help us keep the other garages open for patient families.

Join us for APP Fellowship Program Informational Session 

Transform your career in just 10 short months through the Cook Children’s APP Fellowship Program. This fellowship is designed to support the clinical and professional growth of highly motivated nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Learn more about the APP Fellowship at our informational session at 4 p.m. on Dec. 4. 

For more information visit Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Fellowship Program

Abilene Maternal Fetal Medicine Support the Noah Project 

This is the Abilene Maternal Fetal Medicine clinic staff showing their support for the Noah Project, which is a non-profit organization that offers shelter and outreach support services to women, men, their children and unaccompanied youth who are victims of family violence, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Noah Project serves 10 counties in West Texas. 

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. 

Save the Date: Jingle Mingle, Holiday Extravaganza 

The holidays will be here before you know it as will everyone’s favorite holiday events …. the Jingle Bell Mingle and Holiday Extravaganza! Be sure to save the date, share with your teams and make plans to attend.

The annual Jingle Mingle events will take place at multiple locations throughout the System:

• Dec 3: Prosper Medical Center (MOB, UCC, PCP)
• Dec 5: Fort Worth Medical Center (Dodson, ROB, 750, 901)
• Dec 10: Calmont Office Building

Off-site and fully remote teams will receive interdepartmental transfer funds to support their holiday parties on a December date that works best for the team.

Holiday Extravaganza is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6 and a day of festivities is being planned for patients and employees to enjoy.

Stay tuned for more details on both events in an upcoming Connect newsletter and on the Team Experience CookNet site. 

Retirement Announcement for Jill Koss

Jill Koss, Director of Family Support Services, is retiring from Cook Children's after 35 years of service. Jill's reach expanded to many patients and families helping them through their toughest times with a smile. 

Also retiring is Neely, a Facility Dog who has worked with Cook Children's since March 2019. 

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn more about her experience here at Cook Children's and the impact she has had on our patients lives. 

Marketing and Communications Department Earns Top Award at Worthy Awards

The Cook Children's Marketing and Communications team was awarded several accolades, including the top award for 2025 at the Worthy Awards held by the Greater Fort Worth chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Public Relations Manager Sydney Hanes will serve as president of this chapter in 2026. 

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn which Prosper story earned Best in Show and what other stories were recognized. 

Holiday Student Observation and Clinical Rotation Requests

A high volume of student observation requests is anticipated over the school holidays. Do you have a friend, neighbor, or patient interested in medicine? Did someone ask how they could learn more about a healthcare career? Would you like to have someone shadow you? The process takes less time if the employee host initiates the observation process as it skips the step of needing email verification of your approval. Any employee may complete the form at: Host Approval Observation Form. The form can only be accessed by employees on CookNet. For more information, please contact Brooke Cantrell at observation.education@cookchildrens.org.

A new QR code immediately directs students to the Academic Affairs & Medical Education webpage. The QR code links students to registration for observation or clinical rotation requests. Please show the QR code to anyone interested in an observation or clinical experience at Cook Children’s. For more information, please contact Jennifer Vierkant at academic.education@cookchildrens.org  

Applications for Junior Volunteer Program open Dec. 1

Cook Children's offers high school students the opportunity to volunteer during the summer with the Junior Volunteer Program. Applications will open on Dec. 1 and close on Jan. 1, 2026.  Students ages 15-18 are welcome to apply. 

For more information, please visit Junior Volunteers

Abstracts due for Research Symposium on Dec. 15 

The Research Symposium, scheduled for February 2026, celebrates the groundbreaking research happening under our blue peaks to improve the well-being of every child in our care and communities. Be a part of this inspiring gathering as we honor the dedication of Cook Children’s clinicians, scientists and collaborators, all committed to doing everything for the child. All abstracts must be turned in by midnight on Dec. 15.

Click here to submit an abstract. 

For more information about the in-person Research Symposium on Feb. 19-20 please visit: 2026 Research Symposium

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. 

Halloween Hoopla Winners Announced 

Thank you to all the incredible participants from multiple locations who dressed up and showed their spooky spirit in the system-wide virtual contest and in-person Prosper, Calmont, and Fort Worth Medical Center contest during this year’s Halloween Hoopla. We loved seeing the creativity and magical moments our employees brought to life from across Cook Children’s Health Care System.

Check out all of this year’s contest winners on the Team Experience CookNet site and view the scary good photos here.

Veteran's Day Q&A with Employees

This Veteran's Day we celebrate those who served our country and continue their public service to our patients. 

“My time in uniform shaped who I am as a nurse today. Being an Army medic taught me to always keep learning and adapting, because in medicine, things can change in seconds,” said Jenny Wright, RN at ENT – Fort Worth. “I learned to ask questions, to earn my patients’ trust, and to listen with compassion and without bias. Those lessons became the foundation of my bedside manner and the way I care for patients now.”

Visit Connect Newsroom to read about the experiences of our employees. 

Cook Children’s Physician Network Honored by AMA for Commitment to Well-Being of Physicians

Cook Children’s Physician Network has earned silver recognition in 2025 from the American Medical Association (AMA) as a Joy in Medicine® organization.

The prestigious recognition from the country’s leading physician’s association honors health systems, hospitals, and medical groups that prioritize proven methods to reduce burnout and enhance the professional fulfillment of doctors that comes from patient care. Organizations that meet the rigorous criteria of the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program are leaders in the national effort to transform health care work systems and address the root causes of burnout among care teams.

Cook Children's Office of Physician Well-being was established in January 2022 by system leadership to address physician burnout and promote professional satisfaction and well-being. Kirk Pinto, M.D., a CCPN pediatric urologist, and Sara Garza, M.D., a CCPN primary care physician, serve as Physician Well-being Advocates focus on this work.

Visit Connect Newsroom to read more. 

Self-Install Microsoft 365 Apps

As we continue to modernize our technology tools across Cook Children’s. Microsoft Office 2016 — the version currently installed on most computers — is no longer supported by Microsoft. To stay secure and compatible with our new Microsoft 365 email and collaboration environment, we’re transitioning to the latest Microsoft 365 (M365) desktop applications. Starting Nov. 12, you can begin installing Microsoft 365 apps on your own.

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn what you need to know before installation. 

Join EdAssist Webinar 

Do you have questions about the new tuition reimbursement and direct bill assistance? If so, EdAssist is hosting a webinar for employees at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12. 

The webinar offers: 

• How to take full advantage of your benefit, including the financial support available to you.
• The exclusive discounts through EdAssist’s network of schools.
• Types of free coaching with professional experts averaging over 15+ years of experience.
• The amazing tools we offer on the platform.

Register for the webinar here. 

Employees who register can view it live or receive a recording if they are unable to attend. 

Join Peakatonix: The Cook Children's Christmas Choir

Got a jingle in your step?  Want to "sleigh" some vocals?  Join the Cook Children's Christmas Choir, The Peakatonix, and carol your way into the hearts of our patients and families this holiday season! Please attend one of these Teams sessions for more details:

12:30 -1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12: Join the meeting here 

12:30 -1 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19: Join the meeting here. 

If you are unable to attend one of these sessions reach out to Raymond Turner for more information: raymond.turner@cookchildrens.org. 

Retirement Announcement

Lisa Vaughn, RN, Discharge Coordinator in the NICU, is retiring from Cook Children’s after 31 years on Nov. 12.

We wish Lisa all the best as she begins this new chapter in her life. Congratulations Lisa!

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. Please visit the CookNet calendar to view upcoming events happening across our system. 

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

Do You Have Questions About Our New Capital Rx Pharmacy Plan? 

Read the updated FAQ to get answers your questions about the switch to Capital Rx Pharmacy Plan. To view the FAQ click here. 

Please contact Capital Rx directly for all of your prescription drug questions at 866-957-7862. Customer Service Representatives are available 24/7. 

For more information about our newest pharmacy benefit program and what it means for you please visit Connect Newsroom. 

Don't Miss Out: Halloween Hoopla Festivities 

Everyone in the system is welcome to participate in the virtual Halloween Hoopla costume contest. This is open to all employees and registration is due at 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 2. Please complete a registration form and photo to enter the contents for individuals or groups.

To participate in the in-person Halloween Hoopla at the Medical Center-Fort Worth please submit your costume forms by 11:59 a.m. on Oct. 31. This in-person event will take place from 2-3 p.m. on Oct. 31 in front of the Medical Center-Fort Worth. It will be live streamed. Stay tuned for the viewing link.

For more information visit the Team Experience CookNet site. 

M365 Latest: Follow Me Desktop To Be Updated 

As part of our continued efforts to modernize our technology environment, Follow Me Desktop (FMD) — the virtual desktop you access through Citrix — will be upgraded to the new Microsoft 365 desktop applications on Wednesday, Nov. 5.

Find out what's changing and what you need to know on Connect Newsroom. 

Upfront Tuition Payment with EdAssist 

An option for direct billing is now available. If you meet qualifications for employee educational assistance, Cook Children's can pay your tuition upfront directly to your school. This new enhancement will remove your out-of-pocket expenses toward your tuition so that you can focus on your education and success. Please be advised that participation in direct billing may vary by school. 

For questions on Tuition Reimbursement, contact the Benefits Department at AskBenefits@cookchildrens.org or 682-885-4419. Visit the Tuition Assistance CookNet site for more information. 

Identify and Prioritize Your Savings Goals

What’s the first step in the financial planning process? Figuring out your financial goals. Fidelity wants to help you think about the savings goals that are important to you – and learn how to achieve them. Sign up to join the next webinar at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4. 

Register Here

You’ll earn 100 Personify Health Points as an added benefit of participating. Points may be cashed in for gift cards through the Cook Children’s employee wellness program.

Spiritual Care Opens Holiday Help Registration

Spiritual Care is inviting departments, units, clinics and teams to participate in Holiday Help, an annual drive for groups to sponsor patient families or help fulfill the Child Life Wish List. Registration is open through Nov. 9.

Please read Connect Newsroom for more information and how to sign up. 

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. 

For more updates on what is happening across our system visit our CookNet calendar.

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

Don’t Miss Out: Use Your $25 Quarterly Health Allowance 

Are you enrolled in a Meritain Health medical plan? If so, you have a $25 quarterly allowance you can spend on over-the-counter health care products with OTC Health Solutions, and it’s completely free to use.

Order online at https://www.cvs.com/benefits or download the OTC Health Solutions app and get your over-the-counter products delivered straight to you at no extra cost.

Don’t let your allowance go to waste this cold and flu season. Stock up on essentials like pain relievers, cold medicine, nasal spray, and so much more.

For more information, please visit the HR CookNet page and scroll down to the OTC Benefits section.

Shared Mailboxes to Migrate 

The M365 Team is scheduled to migrate all shared mailboxes starting on Oct. 27 through mid to late November.

What to Expect

If you have access to a shared mailbox that is currently linked to your Outlook profile, you may see the following notification appear on your screen:

“An administrator has made a change to your Outlook and needs to restart.” 

Please ignore this message. There is no need to close and restart Outlook, even if the message appears multiple times.

Simply click OK and continue your normal operations. The migration process will complete in the background without requiring any action or interruption on your part. Normally the pop up only occurs if you are associated with the shared mailbox or have access to some content in those shared mailboxes. We only expect the popups during the migration process. Once the shared mailbox has properly synchronized all the data, the prompts will stop.

Upcoming Team Experience Opportunities

Halloween Hoopla

Registration to participate in the live or virtual contest is open and mark your calendars for the livestreamed event from 2 - 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31. Visit the Team Experience Halloween Hoopla page on CookNet for all contest details and registration info. 

Creating Moments of Magic at Cook Children’s Family Fun Day at Six Flags Over Texas

Join us from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8 for a day of family, fun and thrills.

This is a special private event, and the park is only open to employees of Cook Children's and one other company. That means fewer wait times for all your favorite rides. Cook Children’s employees purchasing one or more ticket will receive one free ticket. Employees can purchase a total of six tickets at the price of $16.24 each ($15 plus $1.24 tax). Each ticket includes admission and parking.

You do not need to enter the promo code if you are using the link from the CookNet announcement, our special employee link already has the code it embedded. Learn more about special offers and purchasing tickets for this event. We encourage you to please view the step-by-step directions on how to checkout, please visit this link.

Discount Tickets at Dallas Maverick games this season

Cook Children's employees are invited to purchase tickets for Cook Children's Night at the Dallas Mavericks game along with additional games offered this fall at a special discount price. Click here to see discounted tickets. 

Cook Children’s Night at the Dallas Mavericks Game
6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 16| Mavs v. Portland Trail Blazers

Healthcare Heroes Night 
7:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 27 | Mavs v. Oklahoma City Thunder
7:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 10| Mavs v. Milwaukee Bucks

Case Management Department Collecting Donations for Homeless Initiative Program

For Case Management Week and the department is continuing its efforts to collect donations for Homeless Initiative Program. This program began in 2008 and has served over 19,000 children since then. The employee-only drive will be accepting new fleece blankets, sheets, towels, hand towels, washcloths and baby wipes. 

If you are not at the Medical Center-Fort Worth campus, you can still participate through an Amazon wish list. Please see an article on the Connect Newsroom to see the drop off locations and to learn more. 

Join Cybersecurity Awareness Month Challenge

Now in its 22nd year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is held every October to raise awareness about online security. Healthcare organizations handle some of the most sensitive information there is—patient records, financial data, and personal details. All month long, Cook Children’s is promoting key behaviors to empower every employee to recognize and prevent cyber threats that can not only steal their own data, but could also compromise patient privacy or disrupt care.  The theme for this year’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month is “Stay Safe Online.”

Rock Star Challenge:  Want to be a Cybersecurity Rock Star? The fun and engaging challenge activities will help you improve data and device security both here at work and at home as well as reinforce cyber-hygiene habits that protect our patients and help fulfill our Promise. You’ll have the opportunity to flex your cybersecurity muscles at Gold, Platinum, and Diamond levels and be eligible for prize drawings. All the details are here.

Check out the Cybersecurity Awareness Month page for more information and additional resources.

Share Your Story This Veterans Day

This Veterans Day, we want to celebrate and recognize the military service of our colleagues. Internal Communications is writing an article for Veterans Day and want to feature your experiences and details about how you made the transition to civilian life. If you'd like to participate and be featured for the article, please email us at internal.communications@cookchildrens.org by Tuesday, Nov. 4. We look forward to hearing from you!

Our Pet-scription for Happiness

When we leave our Cook Children's campus, our pets may be the ones who greet us when we get home. Each week, we're showcasing all the pets who make us better humans, with videos featuring photos of pets that have been submitted by Cook Children's employees. We will be posting these videos periodically, so if you do not see your pet right away, they will be showcased in a later video. 

Help us show some love to our furry friends at home. 

*We are no longer taking submissions*

Click here to watch the video.

Have You Subscribed to Checkup Newsroom?

Subscribe to Checkup Newsroom today to stay informed about the great things happening across our system and how Cook Children’s is staying at the forefront of helping our patients and families. Readers can see our stories in both English and Spanish.

Sign up now and never miss an update https://www.checkupnewsroom.com/

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. 

Thank You and Next Steps in Our Microsoft 365 Journey

An Update from the Microsoft 365 Team at Cook Children’s:

We want to begin by thanking everyone for their patience and support as we completed the move from on-premises Exchange to Microsoft 365 Exchange Online and rolled out Cook Children’s Mobile Services. We know this transition wasn’t easy for everyone, and we sincerely appreciate your patience and cooperation as we navigated the complexities and timing adjustments that came with this effort.

These upgrades are an important step in modernizing our technology environment — improving performance, security, and reliability while giving all of us access to the latest tools that support how we work and care for patients.

With this milestone behind us, we’re moving forward with the next phase of our Microsoft 365 transformation:

What’s Next

Shared Mailboxes and Distribution Groups
Migration will begin Oct. 27. Given the large number of mailboxes and groups, we anticipate this work will continue through early February 2026.
Check the M365 site here for status updates and progress reports.

Microsoft 365 Desktop Applications
Beginning Nov. 5 through Jan. 15, we’ll start replacing Microsoft Office 2016 with the new Microsoft 365 desktop apps.
Learn more about what to expect on the M365 site.

Windows 11 Upgrade
Starting March 2026, we’ll begin upgrading to Windows 11 system wide.
More details will be shared on the M365 site as the date approaches.

Your engagement and feedback have been invaluable in getting us here. Thank you again for helping us make this transition a success as we continue building a more modern, secure, and connected environment for Cook Children’s.

With appreciation,
The M365 Team

Construction Update:  Terrell Garage Parking Impacted

Parking in the Terrell Garage will be impacted due to construction on Sixth Street. Starting on Monday, Oct. 20, all physician parking in the affected area (see map) must enter through the Emergency Department patient/family entrance and exit through what is currently the physician parking area entrance. 

A portion of the garage is going to be restriped. Do not park in this area from Thursday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 19. 

Then, from Oct. 20 to Dec. 29, the flow of parking on the lower level will change and physician parking will be in the opposite direction that it is now. 

Please allow extra time for your commute and plan ahead to ensure you arrive for your shift on time.

Please utilize the construction website for the most up to date information. Changes can occur daily so please rely on and bookmark: Construction Updates | Cook Children's Medical Center. 

Revised Parking Garage Flow Alert: L1 Direction Change

Please be aware of a recent change in the parking garage at Seventh and Pennsylvania avenues.

Between Oct. 18-20, the Level L1 ramp will be closed. Because of this closure, the Seventh Avenue entrance will be closed, and drivers will only be able to enter from Pennsylvania Avenue. All parking will still be available during this time.

We understand this is a change from the usual route, so please pay extra attention to the arrows and new signage to ensure a smooth flow of traffic. Flagmen will also be on-site to help direct traffic. Please view the direction changes on the map or download the map on the right-hand side of this page under downloads. 

Flu Vaccines Available at Occupational Health

Employees who still need a flu vaccine can stop by Occupational Health in Fort Worth to get their shot before Friday’s deadline.

The influenza vaccine requirement is an annual compliance at Cook Children’s. You must get your flu shot by Oct. 17.

Occupational Health is located at 901 Seventh Ave. on the fourth floor. No appointment is needed if you come for your vaccine between 7-11:45 a.m. and 12:30-5 p.m. To request a shot during the period from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., please send an email with your preferred time to Occhealth@cookchildrens.org.

If you received your flu shot at your doctor's office or a pharmacy, click here to upload proof of vaccination on the Enterprise Health portal. 

• Failure to complete by deadline – Written Warning
• Failure to complete within next 14 days – Final Written Warning
• Failure to complete within next 14 days – Suspension

Thank you for helping protect our patients, patient families and one another from infection this flu season. 

Language Services Department Offers 200+ Languages to Empower Families

The goal of the dedicated staff in Cook Children's Language Services Department is to help ease the stress for patient families who don't speak the same language as health care providers coming into the room. The department provides interpretation and translation services for patients and guardians across the hospital system. 

Interpretation deals with the spoken language while translation converts written text. But interpreters are not just a link between patient and provider; Cook Children’s interpreters provide empathy, connection and a sense of safety for families. Read more on the Connect Newsroom about the work Language Services Department offers families.  

Employee Relations Popups Updates for Magnolia Primary Care and Henderson Primary Care

The Employee Relations Team continues their tour in an effort to meet as many of you as possible. They will meet with Fort Worth Magnolia Primary Care and Fort Worth Henderson Primary Care on Oct. 15. 

POPUPs are designed to IMPACT (Interactive Meetings Promoting Accountability, Communication and Trust) between YOU and human resources. We know your busy schedules don’t allow you to give us a call or send an email to ask your questions, therefore, we’re coming to you! This is your opportunity to engage in one-on-one private conversations with Human Resources, ask questions and spin the wheel to win Cook Children's swag. 

Save Money on Halloween Gear While Helping Child Life

Spirit Halloween is adding a little magic to spooky season by helping you save while supporting Cook Children’s. Show the coupon linked on the Cook Children's Health Foundation website to save 10% on your purchase and donate 10% to Child Life at Cook Children’s. 

The Child Life specialists are experts in FUN, providing comfort through art, music and furry friend cuddles, all while keeping our young patients on track developmentally. You can support their work and spark healing by visiting Spirit Halloween today.

Dash Across DFW Steps Challenge with Personify Health

Log into Personify Health to join the Dash Across DFW challenge. This virtual challenge will start at Medical Center-Prosper and then you will walk virtually to different DFW landmarks and end at the Medical Center-Fort Worth. For step-by-step instructions on how to join the challenge see the registration information on the right-hand side of this page under the downloads tab. 

To enroll in Personify Health click here.

Already have an account? Click here to log in. 

If you have any questions, please email wellness@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. 

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

PTO Sellback Reminder 

If you elected to sell back Paid Time Off for calendar year 2025 (an election you made during open enrollment in August 2024) but haven't sold the time yet, your hours will be automatically paid out to you. This payout will be on the Nov. 7, 2025, paycheck.

If you elected PTO sellback for calendar year 2026 (an election made during open enrollment in August 2025), you can begin selling those hours as they accrue, starting in January 2026.

Mental Health Resources Available for Employees

Oct. 10 marks World Mental Health Awareness Day and it is so important that Cook Children's employees feel supported. Employees have many resources to tap for mental and emotional well-being. 

• Headspace App
• Free counseling through CareATC
• Sleepfit digital tool
• Cook Children's Spiritual Care
• ReThink Care: Daily Mindfulness Training- through Personify Health
• Guided Meditations
• Responder Health
• Suicide Prevention Hotline
  • Call or text 9-8-8 for free and confidential support
  • Available 24/7, call or text 9-8-8 for access to mental health crisis services.
  • Please note: the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number is still operational.

Click here to learn how to access these resources. 

Rachel Cress Receives First DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators

The Education and Professional Development Department proudly presented its first DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators on Sept. 17, 2025. The DAISY Award was created to recognize nurse educators who go above and beyond to improve practice and advance patient care through teaching, precepting, and mentoring. This year, 17 educators were nominated for their exceptional dedication to supporting nurses and fostering a culture of learning. 

Congratulations to Rachel Cress, BSN, RN, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Educator, who was selected as the inaugural recipient of this distinguished honor.

The DAISY Foundation’s selection criteria for this award include demonstrating empathy and compassion, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, modeling effective communication, and serving as a role model and mentor. Honorees also exemplify adaptability, a love of lifelong learning, and the ability to build collaborative relationships that strengthen nursing practice. 

It’s Time to Fall For The Next Epic Upgrade

The next Epic upgrade is set for Oct. 17. Be sure to check the Upgrade LHD for a breakdown of the changes coming to your Epic application. These materials are now available. In addition, the routine content freeze that accompanies Epic upgrade will be in effect from Oct. 13 -17.

Effectively Planning Your Medicare Transition Timeline

Whether you're nearing Medicare eligibility or just beginning to plan, this webinar will help you create a clear roadmap for a smooth transition to Medicare.

Loved ones are also welcome to attend the webinar or schedule consultations to help with their own Medicare journey.

Click here to register for the webinar: 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 13 

During this session, a licensed Medicare advisor will discuss:

• When to initiate your Medicare transition.
• Key milestones and the benefits of early preparation.
• Factors to consider when exploring Medicare options.
• A step-by-step guide to preparing for your Medicare enrollment.
• Enrollment periods, deadlines, and common mistakes to avoid.

Can’t attend live? Register anyway, and you’ll receive a follow-up email with the recording, presentation slides, and links to schedule a consultation with a licensed Medicare advisor.

Sign Up for Pumpkin Palooza 

Get ready for some fall fun! Child Life Department is transforming the Child Life Zone at Medical Center-Fort Worth into a magical pumpkin patch, and we want YOUR department to be part of the excitement.

A quick note: This year there won’t an annual haunted house due to scheduling conflicts. In the meantime, Child Life is bringing you something just as festive with our pumpkin patch celebration.

Here’s how it works: our amazing patients will get to vote for their favorite decorated pumpkin, and Child Life Department would love for your team to show off your creativity! Carve out time to join the fun at Pumpkin Palooza on Oct. 21.  

The rules:

• Foam pumpkins only
• Think EXTRAVAGANT. Go all out with decorations
• Get creative and have fun with it!
• No idea is too wild – glitter, themes, characters, the sky’s the limit.
• Pumpkins must be brought to the Child Life Zone by Oct. 20
• LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE – sign up soon.

Want your department to participate? Please email Bianca.erazo@cookchildrens.org by Oct. 10. 

Can’t wait to see what you create!

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. 

Creating Moments of Magic at Cook Children’s Family Fun Day at Six Flags Over Texas

Join us from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8. for a day of family, fun and thrills! This is a special private event, and the park is only open to employees of Cook Children's and one other company. That means fewer wait times for all your favorite rides and shows. Bring your loved ones out to enjoy the park with this amazing special ticket offer that includes both admission and parking.

Specials Updates for 2025

• NEW extended park hours [11 a.m. – 8 p.m.]
• NEW park entry process
• NEW - Only 1 other company attending
• UPDATED special season pass deal for those who purchase an event ticket

Cook Children’s employees purchasing one or more ticket will receive one free ticket. Employees can purchase a total of 6 tickets at the price of $16.24 each ($15.00 plus $1.24 tax). Each ticket includes admission and parking. The original price for one ticket that includes Six Flags Park admission and parking is valued at $89.99, so this is an outstanding offer.

Additional offers:

• Add on a Mega Meal Deal [1Meal - 1 Snack - 1 Beverage] to enjoy inside the park at select park locations for $19.99 per person.
• Upgrade your event ticket to a Gold Season Pass for unlimited access to ALL Six Flags America locations including parking for a special price of $39.00. Must purchase on the day of the event.

You do not need to enter the promo code if you are using the link from the CookNet announcement, our special employee link already has the code it embedded.

Learn more about special offers and purchasing tickets for this event

For step-by-step directions on how to checkout please visit this link.

Halloween Hoopla is Around the Corner 

With the beginning of October means Halloween Hoopla is coming up. Our goal with this event is for all Cook Children’s employees to share magical moments happening from wherever you work. From costumes to skits, Halloween Hoopla truly showcases the creativity in all of us, and we invite you to participate and connect with one another. Registration is now open and mark your calendars for the livestreamed event from 2-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31.

Where to join the fun: Visit the Team Experience Halloween Hoopla page on CookNet for all contest details and registration.

• Fort Worth Medical Center (Live Contest and Livestream)
• Virtual option (Open to all employees system wide.)
• Calmont and Prosper hosting campus contest

What to Expect:

• Updated contest guidelines; please be sure to review before registering.
• Opportunities to participate in individual and group costume contests.
• A “fang-tastic” chance to showcase your creativity and join in the festive fun.
• Employees will have an opportunity to vote for their favorites in early November.

We can’t wait to see your costumes, skits, and creative spirit! 

Sign Up for Patient Trick or Treating 

All departments are welcome to apply to participate in our patient Halloween Trick or Treat! Between 10 a.m.- noon on Friday Oct. 31, on the first floor of the Cook Children's Medical Center- Fort Worth will be scary fun! 

As a reminder: 

• Please plan for 170 children, 1-2 items per child
• No edible treats please, not even healthy items.
• Patients are not to be photographed during this activity. We must have consent forms for all photographs. This is hard for us to monitor at an event this large, so please no photos.

For the full list of reminders and to apply to participate, please download the sign-up form on the right-hand side of this page under the downloads tab. 

Please return the sign-up form by Friday, Oct. 17 to Megan Hodges-Cook in the Child Life Department through email patientevents@cookchildrens.org For more information, please call 682-885-4270. Thank you for making this event special for patients and families!

Usage of USB Data Storage Drives (Flash Drives)

To enhance the protection of Cook Children’s data, all previously allowed USB Flash Drives, with some exceptions, will stop functioning after Oct. 15, 2025. This change is necessary to ensure that patient and organization data remains protected and within compliance of security policies and protocols.

Please take time now to review your use of USB Flash Drives (if applicable) and determine business justification for the upcoming change. Should there be a justified business need for a USB Flash Drive, you will be asked to complete and submit a USB Storage request form. If approved, you will be assigned a secure Cook Children's USB Flash Drive. In the event a request is deemed to not be a necessity, an alternative process will be provided.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work together to safeguard Cook Children’s data. If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please create a ServiceNow ticket here: Cook Employee Center Homepage - Employee Center. 

Congratulations to the Fort Worth Laboratory Services for CAP Accreditation

We are pleased to share that Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth laboratory services successfully completed The College of American Pathologists (CAP) accreditation inspection on Sept. 18. The praise and compliments shared by the inspectors for our services is a testament to the lab staff's commitment to quality, patient safety, and excellence in laboratory medicine.

The CAP inspection is a rigorous peer review process that evaluates laboratories on thousands of standards, ensuring the highest level of accuracy, reliability, and safety in diagnostic testing.

The success reflects the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of our laboratory staff, whose efforts directly support safe, effective care for every patient. Their commitment to the Cook Children’s core values ensures providers across the system and community can rely on timely and precise laboratory results to guide patient care.

U.S. News & World Report: Priority on Process Improvement

Teams across Cook Children’s play a role in collecting and submitting the data that U.S. News & World Report uses to rank the nation’s top children’s hospitals each year.   

We wanted to pull back the curtain on the strategies at Cook Children’s that go into completing these annual surveys. Key partnerships involve our staff from Quality Process Improvement (QPI), Information Systems (IS), Research Administration Office, Global Health Services, Business Development, Data Analytics, Marketing, Communications and leaders within the individual specialties.  

Take a look at our Connect Newsroom story to learn more as we await our newest rankings on Oct. 7. 

Employee Hazard Quiz Results

In August, employees put their knowledge to the test as part of a Employee Slip, Trip, and Fall awareness campaign. Over 400 staff members took the quiz and reported hazards in their work environment.

Ten employees were awarded a gift card in our random drawing for participating.

 The top five reported workplace hazards were:

• Cords
• Wet floors and spills
• Chairs
• Boxes
• Items left in the hallways or on the floor 

Take a moment today to look around your work area and see if there are any of these hazards present or if you find something different.

Report the hazard, then take action to remove the hazard if you are able to. This might look like:

1. Moving cords out of walkways
2. Reporting a leaking ice machine
3. Request extra chairs be removed from an area
4. Breaking down and removing empty boxes
5. Moving items out of the hallway and back to the storeroom.

If you identify a hazard that you can't correct yourself, report it to your supervisor. That way, the appropriate department can handle it. Reporting a hazard also raises awareness that can benefit other areas of our campuses. 

Thank you for your help in keeping employees safe at work.

Our Pet-scription for Happiness

When we leave our Cook Children's campus, our pets may be the ones who greet us when we get home. Each week, we're showcasing all the pets who make us better humans, with videos featuring photos of pets that have been submitted by you, Cook Children's employees. We will be posting these videos periodically, so if you do not see your pet right away, they will be showcased in a later video. 

Help us show some love to our furry friends at home. 

*We are no longer taking submissions*

Click here to watch our video

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. 

New Benefits Year Starts on Oct. 1

The 2025-2026 benefits year at Cook Children’s offers employees a wide range of support for your health, mental health, financial wellness, and lifestyle.

You’ll find medical, dental, vision, retirement, disability, life insurance, leave of absence, mental health resources and much more listed in the Cook Children’s Benefits Guide. The year runs from Oct. 1, 2025, to Sept. 30, 2026.  

Click here to see the highlights of what is new this upcoming year, including the Capital Rx benefit giving you the option to fill your prescriptions at Cook Children's retail pharmacies.  

Take A Moment to Just Breathe with Relaxing Tunes

A moment of sound and stillness. Come immerse yourself in resonant tones and soothing ambient musical textures crafted live, in real-time, to quiet the frazzled mind.  

A simple pause. A return to center. A moment of mindfulness for you to just… breathe.

Three sessions will be held Friday, Oct. 3, in Hochberger Auditorium at Medical Center-Fort Worth:

• Noon -12:15 p.m.
• 12:30 -12:45 p.m.
• 1 -1:15 p.m.

If you are unable to attend in person, the sessions will be live streamed here.

Latest from Prosper

We have lots of great things happening in Prosper. 

• New NICU opening at Prosper
• Hannah Plack nominated as DAISY award winner
• Prosper Advanced Practice Provider Luncheon
• Fall volunteers needed  

Click here to read the latest edition of Prosper News.

National APP Week Luncheon Photos

Last week was National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week! Click here to see photos from their department appreciation luncheon at Cook Children's Medical Center-Fort Worth. 

To learn more about our wonderful APP's and what their days look like. read an article on Checkup Newsroom here.  

See photos from the appreciation luncheon here.

National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Begins

Coming up on Oct. 6, IT Security Risk Management will kick off its annual Rock Star Challenge. This year’s Challenge theme is “Stay Safe Online.”

All month long, they’ll be sharing simple, effective ways to help you stay safe online, protect company and personal data, and ultimately secure our world.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a global initiative that raises awareness about online safety and empowers individuals and businesses to protect themselves from cybercrime.

Remember, each of us has a role to play in defending cyberattacks. The fun and engaging Rock Star Challenge activities will provide valuable resources and tips you can use to better protect yourself at work and at home. Details will be shared soon.

Create a Budget and Build Emergency Savings

Having an emergency fund can be crucial when unplanned expenses come along, like a car repair you weren’t expecting. Fidelity wants to help you learn why and how to set money aside for emergencies. The next Fidelity webinar, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9, focuses on emergency savings and budgeting for financial wellness.

Register here

You’ll earn 100 Personify Health Points as an added benefit of participating. Points may be cashed in for gift cards through the Cook Children’s employee wellness program.

Retirement Announcement

Debbie Durham, Pharmacy Tech II in the Pharmacy Department, is retiring from Cook Children’s on Oct 1.

“It is our honor to recognize Debbie Durham for her 21 years of dedicated service to Cook Children’s Medical Center and to wish her the best as she begins her retirement. Debbie has seen a lot of change here in her 21 years as a pharmacy technician. Her hard work and dedication will leave a lasting impact on the pharmacy department as well as the many patients and families that she’s had a hand in caring for. Best wishes, we will miss you greatly!” – Pharmacy Team

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. 

High Five for Magnet: Nursing Excellence in Action

We are excited to share a major milestone in our Magnet journey.

We’ve officially received notification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center that our Magnet document has been fully accepted with no deficiencies. This is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of the outstanding work happening across our organization.

The next step is the Magnet Site Visit, which is scheduled for Sept. 22 – 24.

During this visit, three Magnet Appraisers will be on-site to engage with teams across all the practice areas included in our document.

The purpose of this visit is to validate and celebrate the incredible work described in our written document.

The appraisers will connect with nurses and interprofessional team members across all roles and settings to hear their experiences and to see how we live out Magnet principles through our culture, outcomes, collaboration, and commitment to excellence in patient care.

You can explore our Magnet document and all the different topics and stories by visiting this webpage.

Halloween Hoopla: Everything You Need to Know

Get ready for a spooktacular celebration! Our goal is for all Cook Children’s employees to share magical moments happening from wherever you work. From costumes to skits, Halloween Hoopla truly showcases the creativity in all of us, and we invite you to participate and connect with one another.  Registration is now open for this year’s Halloween Hoopla, mark your calendars for the livestreamed event from 2-3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31.

Where to join the fun: Visit the Team Experience Halloween Hoopla page on CookNet for all contest details and registration.

• Fort Worth Medical Center (Live Contest and Livestream)
• Virtual option (Open to all employees system-wide.)
• Calmont and Prosper hosting campus contest

What to Expect:

• Updated contest guidelines; please be sure to review before registering.
• Opportunities to participate in individual and group costume contests.
• A “fang-tastic” chance to showcase your creativity and join in the festive fun.
• Employees will have an opportunity to vote for their favorites in early November.

We can’t wait to see your costumes, skits, and creative spirit! Don’t miss out, register today and join in on the fun this October.

From Intern to Chief Administrative Officer

Amy Knight's career journey has come full circle, leading her back to Cook Children's Health Care System as the new Chief Administrative Officer. Her story is a powerful testament to what makes this organization special.

"It really strengthens our ability to drive change and act as one, because we all truly share one mission, our promise," Knight said.

In a recent interview with Becker's Hospital Review, Amy shares details about her return to Fort Worth, her passion for the system's "thoughtful expansion," and her vision for the future.

Ready to learn more about our new leader? Click here to read the full story.

New Badge Distribution Update for Next Week

The distribution of new badges in Prosper, Calmont locations, Urgent Care Centers and Off-Site Specialty Clinics is set to begin early next week. Please click here for full details including instructions on what to do after receiving the boxes with the badges in them. 

• Misspellings: If your name is misspelled, contact the Badging department directly for a correction.
• Name Changes: For a legal name change, you must first submit a badge name change form through OnBase to HR. Once HR approves the change, they will notify the Badging department, which will then issue a new badge with your updated name. To reach OnBase:
  • Workday > Menu > Employee Resources > HR Tab > Employee Badge Request
  • This will lead you to an OnBase electronic form.

• Missing Badges or Incorrect Information: If you're missing a badge or the location on your file is incorrect (a common issue for employees in newer offices), please notify the Badging department.

The Badging department encourages employees to reach out with any issues they encounter to ensure everyone has a correct and functional badge. To reach them, please email Michelle Skillin or call 682-885-4445.

Home Health Celebrates 25-Year Anniversary 

For 25 years, Cook Children’s Home Health has been a forerunner of helping our patients beyond the medical center walls. Since its inception, Home Health has completed over 1,000,000 patient admissions. 

Friday, Sept. 19 marks Home Health's 25-year anniversary. Join us as we celebrate the hard work and dedication of our Home Health employees and the specialized care they bring across the state of Texas.  

Click here to read our story. 

We’re Moving: Email Mailboxes to M365

This month we are moving Cook Children’s email mailboxes from our current system (Exchange 2016) to cloud-based Exchange Online, which is part of Microsoft 365. The email mailbox moves will come in weekly waves to different user groups across Cook Children’s. When it is your turn, you will get an email from Internal Communications with step-by-step instructions for updating mobile devices to reconnect mailboxes to Cook Children’s email. Until you receive that email, there is no action on your part.

Once migration takes place, users will notice some changes to mobile services. Safeguards have been implemented to protect sensitive patient information and follow health care security regulations. For example, multi-factor authentication is required – this adds extra protection to your account.

Please read this article on the Connect Newsroom with more details.

Take Action for National Preparedness Month

Make a plan with your household members. It could protect your life and the lives of those around you. When disaster strikes, city services may be cut off and local disaster relief and government responders may not be able to reach you. You need to have plans and supplies in place in case you need to make it on your own, at least for a limited time, no matter where you are.

Follow these steps to create an emergency plan. Gather family to discuss what should be included in the plan. Take into account the special needs of your family. Create an emergency plan as a family. Practice your plan with members of your family.

Click here to view the CookNet site from Emergency Management department to learn how they prepare for disasters within the system. 

Our Pet-scription for Happiness

When we leave our Cook Children's campus, our pets may be the ones who greet us when we get home. Each week, we're showcasing all the pets who make us better humans, with videos featuring photos of pets that have been submitted by you, Cook Children's employees. We will be posting these videos periodically, so if you do not see your pet right away, they will be showcased in a later video. 

Help us show some love to our furry friends at home. 

*We are no longer taking submissions*

Click here to watch our latest video

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. 

Cook Children’s Medical Center – Prosper Opens Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Expanding Care for Newborns in One of the Nation’s Fastest Growing Regions

We marked a milestone for families in northern Texas as Cook Children's Medical Center - Prosper officially opened its state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Purpose built to meet the urgent needs of a rapidly growing community, Cook Children's - Prosper NICU is the first to be housed with a children's hospital in the region. 

"Our new NICU is a promise to families that their children will receive expert, compassionate care without having to leave their community," said Kevin Greene, President of Cook Children's Medical Center - Prosper. "With each investment we make into our medical center and in our outpatient clinics, we are building a foundation for exceptional pediatric care close to home."

Please click here to read and see more. 

We also have a new spot on cookchildrens.org that provides the latest information on the NICU. Visit this page and share with your families by clicking here.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month 

Yesterday, Governor Gregg Abbott proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, in Texas, and we have an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of our clinical and non-clinical employees who can trace their heritage to Spain, Mexico, the Carribean and Central and South America.

“Hispanic Americans enrich Texas with beautiful traditions and unique perspectives that shine throughout the Lone Star State,” Governor Abbott wrote. “Hispanic Americans have made innumerable contributions that have led to our state's growth, strength, and prosperity.  Whether serving as doctors, teachers, small business owners, or community leaders, the leadership of Hispanic Americans plays an important role in Texas’ story.”

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and the countless contributions of Hispanic Americans to our state, we also recognize the importance of providing resources for all families. At Cook Children's, we are proud to offer the Spanish Checkup Newsroom, where you can find news and health information in Spanish. To see the content we have published this year, please visit our Checkup Newsroom. 

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with your families, check out these events happening across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. 

• 16 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 in Dallas-Fort Worth 
• Discover Diverse Fort Worth | Multicultural History & Experiences
• Here’s where to celebrate Hispanic heritage in Fort Worth | Fort Worth Report
• Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in North Texas - CBS Texas

Throughout this month, we will feature our Hispanic employees who have contributed to the success and growth of our organization. 

¡Viva la cultura!

A Quick Reminder: Pause Before You Post

Before you share, comment, or like anything online, take a moment to pause. When you're online, your actions reflect on Cook Children's and the community we've built together as a family.

Remember to keep our shared values in mind:

• Kindness: Does your post or comment build others up or tear them down? Let's choose kindness.
• Safety: Are you protecting your own safety and the privacy of others?
• Respect: Are you showing respect for viewpoints and experiences that may be different from your own, even when you disagree?
• Generosity: Does your post contribute positively to the conversation or offer something helpful?
• Imagination: Does your online presence inspire creativity and new ideas?
• Collaboration: Are you working with others to create a positive and supportive online environment?

Our core values are more than just words—they're the foundation of who we are. By keeping them in mind, we can ensure our online presence is a true and positive reflection of our work, and ultimately our Promise!

Check for Fraudulent Insurance Claims 

The Employee Relations department has received in recent weeks a spike in fraudulent insurance claims. Employee Relations will be sending those employees affected an email asking them to contact the TransUnion Credit Bureau to report the claim as fraudulent. 

If employees want to be proactive, they can contact the Texas Workforce Commission to request a freeze on their account and explain that they’ve been notified that there is a report of fraudulent claims and they would like to ensure no claims are submitted under their name and social security number.

Contact Texas Workforce Commission at 888-876-6107 between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Additional Flu Fair Dates Added

Occupational Health and the Emergency Department are teaming up to provide additional evening for Flu Fair dates at the Fort Worth Medical Center in Room 1163 (next to Goodies to Go by Emergency Department) from 7 - 10 p.m.

Please do not wait until the last minute. The last week may be canceled if we do not have enough attendees. We have evening dates as follows:

• Sunday, Sept. 21
• Sunday, Sept. 28
• Wednesday, Oct. 1
• Thursday, Oct. 2
• Friday, Oct. 3
• Monday, Oct. 6 - dependent on prior attendance
• Thursday, Oct. 9 -dependent on prior attendance

To view a full list of dates, times and locations for Flu Fairs please visit Connect Newsroom. 

Use of USB Data Storage Drives (Flash Drives)

To enhance the protection of Cook Children’s data, all previously allowed USB Flash Drives, with some exceptions, will no longer work after Oct. 15, 2025. This change is necessary to ensure that patient and organization data remains protected and within compliance of security policies and protocols. 

Before then please review your use of USB Flash Drives (if applicable) and determine business justification for the upcoming change. Should there be a justified business need for a USB Flash Drive, you will be asked to complete and submit a USB Storage request form. If approved, you will be assigned a secure Cook Children's USB Flash Drive. In the event a request is deemed to not be a necessity, an alternative process will be provided. 

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we work together to safeguard Cook Children’s data. If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please create a ServiceNow ticket here: Cook Employee Center Homepage - Employee Center. 

We’re Moving: Email Mailboxes to M365

This month we are moving Cook Children’s email mailboxes from our current system (Exchange 2016) to cloud-based Exchange Online, which is part of Microsoft 365. The email mailbox moves will come in weekly waves to different user groups across Cook Children’s. When it is your turn, you will get an email from Internal Communications with step-by-step instructions for updating mobile devices to reconnect mailboxes to Cook Children’s email. Until you receive that email, there is no action on your part.

Once migration takes place, users will notice some changes to mobile services. Safeguards have been implemented to protect sensitive patient information and follow health care security regulations. For example, multi-factor authentication is required – this adds extra protection to your account.

Please read this article on the Connect Newsroom with more details.

Mirror Mirror Celebrates its 10-Year Anniversary 

Hair? ✔️

Nails? ✔️

Celebrating Mirror Mirror's 10-year Anniversary? ✔️

As we celebrate Mirror Mirror's anniversary, please click here to read our story about the Ezernack family, which travels three hours to visit our salon. 

For employees, did you know employees can book services with licensed cosmetologists at Mirror Mirror? Located across from the Child Life Zone at Medical Center-Fort Worth, self-care experts can provide gel manicures, pedicures, haircuts, color, and more. All proceeds from the salon go directly back to Cook Children’s to support more patients and families during their hospital stay.

Call (682)-885-3200 or stop by to book appointments.

Click here to see their CookNet page with employee specials and pricing. 

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. 

Get Ready for Annual Performance Reviews

Now through Sept. 13, managers are doing year-end reviews of job performance to support and enhance the professional growth of employees at Cook Children’s.

Performance evaluations measure our job performance since October 2024, providing a structured way to look back on accomplishments, contributions, strengths and opportunities. 

After managers complete the evaluations, the next step will be check-in conversations with their direct reports. These one-on-one, two-way conversations create space for constructive feedback, empowering employees to grow and excel. Employees are able to share their perspectives and feedback as well. It’s also an opportunity to reinforce how our individual roles contribute to the bigger picture.

This approach to Performance & Development utilizes tools in Workday to create a transparent and consistent process for performance reviews, career planning, goal setting and more. It’s designed to help you continually strengthen your skills and to keep Cook Children’s a model of excellence in pediatric health care.

In short, year-end evaluations are a way to look back, learn and launch forward – ensuring that our employees and our organization grow together.

Job Aids, Click Views and P&D Timelines are all available on CookNet. Some tips to help you prepare for your year-end discussion can be found here. 

Parking Impacted Near Emergency Department This Week

Patient and family parking in the Emergency Department will be limited due to construction on Sixth Avenue from Aug. 28 to 31. It was previously scheduled to start on Aug. 26. The Physician parking garage entrance and exit will be available; however, the garage exit onto Sixth Avenue will be blocked. 

As a reminder please be attentive when crossing busy streets. Traffic has increased and we want to make sure everyone is safe.

Detours within the garage will direct vehicles to turn around and go back through the physician parking area to exit via the entrance. Signage will be placed for direction and gates will be maintained up during this time. Please use extra care when entering the physician parking area as vehicles will be exiting as well. Please allow extra time for your commute and plan ahead to ensure you arrive for your shift on time.

To ensure you know the most current traffic updates, please bookmark this page. Thank you for your patience.

Doctor Spotlight: Michael Foreman, M.D., Cook Children's Gastroenterology - Lubbock

Take a moment to get to know our very own Michael Foreman, M.D., who works at Cook Children's Gastroenterology - Lubbock. The Texas Panhandle native always knew he would use his skills to help the children in the West Texas region. 

In this Q&A, Dr. Foreman shares his journey into pediatrics and more about his family.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Foreman. 

Wear your NFL Attire Sept. 4-7  

Employees are welcome to wear their favorite NFL attire such as Jerseys and accessories from September 4 to 7 to celebrate the start of the season. All attire must be appropriate for family and patients.

Employees are encouraged to submit photos of their team or individual football spirit to TeamExperience@cookchildrens.org to be featured on the Team Experience CookNet site. 

Have a Happy Labor Day! 

As we approach the Labor Day weekend, we want to thank the 10,000-plus employees at Cook Children's who work to keep our Promise: Knowing every child's life is sacred, we promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities. Your dedication to our core values — kindness, collaboration, imagination, generosity, respect and safety — elevates the care we deliver to patients and families. 

We hope everyone has a happy and safe Labor Day weekend! 

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. 

IMPORTANT: Parking Impacted Near Emergency Department This Week

Patient and family parking in the Emergency Department will be limited due to construction on Sixth Avenue starting Aug. 28-31. It was previously scheduled to start on Aug. 26. The Physician parking garage entrance and exit will be available; however, the garage exit onto Sixth Avenue will be blocked. 

Please be attentive when crossing busy streets. Traffic has increased and we want to make sure everyone is safe.

Detours within the garage will direct vehicles to turn around and go back through the physician parking area to exit via the entrance. Signage will be placed for direction and gates will be maintained up during this time. Please use extra care when entering the physician parking area as vehicles will be exiting as well. Please allow extra time for your commute and plan ahead to ensure you arrive for your shift on time.

To ensure you know the most current traffic updates, please bookmark this page. Thank you for your patience.

Celebrate during Our Last week of Well-being Month

Speaker Series

• Your Well-being, Your Path 
  • Join Leadership Coaches Kim Hampton and Jeremy Jameson for an interactive session to explore your personal well-being and identify opportunities for meaningful change. 
  • Thursday, Aug. 28 from 2 p.m.- 3 p.m. In-person/Decker Boardroom register here.
• Click the title of our other sessions to watch at your convenience:  
  • Brain Health & Well-being: Healthy Ways to Manage Our Greatest Asset 
  • The Sandwich Generation: Not in My Bucket 
  • Caring for You: Well-being at Cook Children’s

Well-being Classes:

• Health & Stress Management: Emotions & Well-being
  •  11:15 a.m., Aug. 27 Zoom: register here
• Vitamin Zzzzz: Getting the Rest You Need 
  • 1 p.m., Aug. 28 Zoom: register here
• Vitamin BE: Using Mindfullness and Responding to the Present Moment
  • 11 a.m., Aug. 29 Zoom: register here

The Calmont Office Building will host their Beat the Heat event on Wednesday, Aug. 27. Click here to learn how off-site and fully remote teams can get funds to host their Beat the Heat Treat event this month. Don't forget to finish your Well-being Bingo card sign up for Personify Health to enter to win gift cards! Go to the Well-being page on CookNet for more details. 

Employee Relations Popups Updates will visit Burleson Primary Care

Our Employee Relations Team will visit with the Burleson Primary Care at 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Aug. 28.

POPUPs are designed to IMPACT (Interactive Meetings Promoting Accountability, Communication and Trust) between “YOU” and human resources. We know your busy schedules don’t always allow you to give us a call or send an email to ask your questions, therefore, we’re coming to you! This is your opportunity to engage in conversations with human resources, ask questions and spin the wheel to win Cook Children's Swag. 

We look forward to seeing you! 

Learn More About Patient Safety 

Are you looking to learn more about patient safety and how to strengthen our patient safety culture? Join us for the Solutions for Patient Safety 2025 Virtual Learning Series. These webinars are a great way for those passionate about safety to learn more about current and future work related to improving the health of every child. 

Click here to sign up for the upcoming virtual session happening from 11-12:30 p.m. on Aug. 27. The graphic shows Eastern Time.

Cook Children's goal is to provide the highest quality patient care, in the safest possible environment, where the best possible outcomes are our top priority. To maintain our culture of safety, we focus on quality initiatives to ensure we're providing medication safety, environmental safety and more in a collaborative approach. Learn more on the Patient Safety CookNet page.

Reminder: Don’t Use Epic for Personal Reasons

Our policies prohibit employees from accessing anyone’s medical records if there is not a legitimate, work-related reason for doing it. This includes celebrities, your neighbor, yourself, and even your own child. Here is some key language from CC 730, titled “Protected Patient Health Information:"

• Employees are not authorized to access or release medical records or PHI belonging to their own children, themselves, family members, other employees, friends, or neighbors. Employees who need to view or obtain copies of their own or their children’s medical records will follow the same release of information process as non-employees.

The Information Security Department operates a program that can tell when someone has accessed a medical record that they shouldn’t have. It’s called Protenus. When Protenus flags an incident, Information Security, Compliance, and Employee Relations cooperate to do an investigation. If it is found to be a violation, HIPAA and our policies require some type of disciplinary action to be taken. Even if you have the best intentions, HIPAA is very clear and strict in this regard, and exceptions are not made.

Photos from Prosper's Beat the Heat

Catch our inside scoop of our Beat the Heat event at Medical Center-Prosper. We got to see lots of lovely faces and eat delicious ice cream to celebrate Well-being month.

Click here to view our photos.

If you attend the Beat the Heat events at our other locations, including remotely, please take photos and send them to teamexperience@cookchildrens.org. 

Happy National Dog Day to our Facility Dogs!

We want to give a special shoutout to our amazing facility dogs who make our system a brighter place! 

• Brienne
• Cayenne
• Margo
• Neely
• Steve
• Zuni

You can support our Facility Dog program by purchasing items off their Amazon wish list or visit Sit…Stay…PLAY to learn more. To see more cute photos of our amazing dogs follow @sitstayplay_cc on Instagram! 

Our Pet-scription for Happiness

Speaking of dogs, we have another video showcasing all the dogs and other pets who make us better humans. We love seeing the photos of pets that have been submitted by you, Cook Children's employees. We will be posting these videos periodically, so if you do not see your pet right away, they will be showcased in a later video. 

Help us show some love to our furry friends at home. 

Click here for this week's video 

*We are no longer taking submissions. Please continue to keep an eye out for our newsletters for the next video submission.

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. 

New Cook Children’s Online Store is Live!

Have you visited the new online store? It carries official merchandise with our logo and items featuring Peaks the Dragon for Cook Children's fans. Click here to check it out.

“We created the online store based on staff’s feedback—to bring Cook Children’s merchandise and apparel to every employee, patient or family, no matter their location,” said Tara Bradshaw, Assistant Vice President, Operations. “We hope everyone can find something they enjoy, and if not, I hope they send in suggestions of what they would like to see. Based on your involvement, the store will continue to evolve and be an extension of Under the Peaks and our Medical Center gift shops.”

All your favorite Cook Children's gear is just a few clicks away. Whether you're hunting for cozy apparel, awesome gifts, team uniforms or even Peaks the Dragon^® merch, your orders will be delivered straight to your home or office. 

A few key points:

• The store was created in partnership with Marketing to create items that are high quality, represent our brand, and will last during your whole career at Cook Children’s.
• Our vendor, AO Swag, is located in Coppell, and fulfills all orders. If a customer has a problem with their order or would like to make a return, questions can be directed to customerservice@aoswag.com.
• Another feature of the website is Kidprints, which was created in partnership with the Woman’s Board and the Creative Arts Program to have birthday, holiday, and all occasion cards available featuring patient artwork. Each piece was designed by a Cook Children’s patient, and all proceeds raised benefit the Creative Arts Program.

How to Access the New Information Services Platform: ServiceNow

ServiceNow Employee Center is now live for all employees.

This means that you will have access to faster help and smarter service, all in one location. ServiceNow will also be home to an extensive library of tip sheets on topics from software tips to Epic and Workday guides. 

There are two ways to access your new platform.

1. simply open your browser to our CookNet Homepage and scroll down to your “Important Places”.

2. Select “Service Now Employee Center” under Find it > Technology on the CookNet Homepage.

For more information on how to best utilize this platform, visit introduction videos and other resources here.

Missed the Deadline? Turn in Your Self-Evaluation with a Paper Form

If you missed the deadline to complete your self-evaluation (August 10, 2025) you can still submit the required self-evaluation using a paper version.

The paper self-evaluations can be found in the Performance and Development section of CookNet. Look for the section titled: “Year-End Paper Templates.”

Managers, if you receive a paper self-evaluation from an employee, please follow the Paper Self-Evaluation Process to upload it into Workday.

Don't Miss the Final Benefits Q&A Session

Still have questions about open enrollment? The Benefits team has one more in-person Q&A session to get those questions answered. Come visit us 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 18 at the Medical Center-Fort Worth in the Family Support Meeting Room

You may also contact the Benefits team at AskBenefits@cookchildrens.org with any questions.

To learn more and to see this year's Benefits Guide, click here.

Fall Into Giving with Employees Care

The Cook Children's Health Foundation is wrapping up summer with fun ways to connect with co-workers and learn more about Employees Care. From games and giveaways to sweet treats and surprises, there's something for everyone. 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.

See the full list of events across the system by visiting their page on CookNet.

Traveling for Work? Travel Services Makes it Easy

If you travel for business or manage plans for others, check-in with Travel Services. They've recently updated their page on CookNet. 

Got questions? They've got answers. You can reach them by email or by phone at (682-303-4569). 

For more information about Travel Services, click here.

Beat the Heat Photo Recap

Catch our inside scoop of our Beat the Heat event at Medical Center-Fort Worth. We got to see lots of lovely faces and eat delicious ice cream to celebrate Well-being month! 

Click here to view our photos.

If you attend the Beat the Heat events at our other locations, including remotely, please take photos and send them to teamexperience@cookchildrens.org. 

Don't Miss Events in August 

This August we have lots of fun events happening across our system. Please view our list of events happening this week, below. To view more events coming up visit the calendar on CookNet. 

• Aug. 21 - 24 - Employees are welcome to wear their favorite college football attire such as jerseys and accessories to celebrate the start of the season. All attire must be appropriate for family and patients.
  • Employees are encouraged to submit photos of their team or individual football spirit to TeamExperience@cookchildrens.org to be featured on the Team Experience CookNet site.

• All of August - Registration is open for Fall Employee Craft Fair 

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. 

High Five for Magnet: Nursing Excellence in Action

We are excited to share a major milestone in our Magnet journey.

We’ve officially received notification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center that our Magnet document has been fully accepted with no deficiencies. This is a tremendous achievement and a reflection of the outstanding work happening across our organization.

The next step is the Magnet Site Visit, which is scheduled for Sept. 22 – 24.

During this visit, three Magnet Appraisers will be on-site to engage with teams across all the practice areas included in our document.

The purpose of this visit is to validate and celebrate the incredible work described in our written document.

The appraisers will connect with nurses and interprofessional team members across all roles and settings to hear their experiences and to see how we live out Magnet principles through our culture, outcomes, collaboration, and commitment to excellence in patient care.

You can explore our Magnet document and all the different topics and stories by visiting this webpage.

Staff Notice: Magnet Recognition Program® Site Visit

Your organization has applied to the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for the prestigious Magnet designation. The Magnet designation recognizes excellence in nursing services.

• You have an opportunity to participate in the evaluation process and are encouraged to do so. We will be coming to your hospital  Sept. 22 – 24, 2025, for a site visit.
• Comments may be e-mailed or mailed to the Magnet Program Office prior to the site visit. Your comments are confidential and never shared with anyone in your organization.  If you choose, your comments may be anonymous but must be in writing.
• There will also be time set aside to speak with the appraisers during the site visit. Time, date, and location of the meeting room will be provided by your organization.
• Your comments must be received by Sept. 12, 2025.
• Your organization has submitted written documentation for the appraisal team to review. The information is available to you for review on the Cook Children’s Magnet Recognition Program SharePoint.