Baptist recognized Richard Keenan Jr., advanced practice nurse lead and board-certified family nurse practitioner with Baptist Medical Group-Collierville General Surgery, as 2025 Advanced Practice Provider of the Year during the APP Conference on Friday, Sept. 19. The award is presented annually during National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week, observed during the fourth week of September.
Colleagues nominated Keenan for his compassionate, high-quality care. His attention to detail, calm demeanor and ability to connect with patients have made him a trusted and respected provider who plays an instrumental role in training medical students in general surgery.
“It is my honor to congratulate Richard Keenan Jr. as Baptist’s Advanced Practice Provider of the Year,” said Justin Rhodes, vice president and CEO of Baptist Medical Group and Connected Care. “Advanced practice providers, such as Richard, are vital to Baptist Memorial Health Care and provide exceptional patient care. I’m proud to celebrate the contributions of advanced practice providers throughout the Baptist network and commend them for their dedication and excellence.”
Baptist presents the APP Award annually during APP Week to advanced practice providers, such as nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, clinical nurse specialists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, or physician assistants who demonstrate excellence in promoting positive change in the nursing practice environment. Baptist’s APP Conference is designed to educate, inspire and celebrate local APP providers who ensure patients and communities receive safe, high-quality care.
The conference also included poster presentations of quality improvement projects from Baptist Health Sciences University students pursuing the Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) degree.
