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UVA Health's Elizabeth 'Betsy' Phipps "has an amazing ability to handle tricky situations and communicate hard things in compassionate ways."

Bill Lombardi, DNP, AG-ACNP, Administrator, UVA Health Center for Advanced Practice (CAP), and Allisha Shifflett, AEMT, BEE Award Committee Vice Chair, surprised Elizabeth 'Betsy' Phipps, MSW, LCSW, Ambulatory Social Work, with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Maryfrances Porter, PhD, Pediatric Psychology, and Beth Ellen Davis, MD, Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, nominated Phipps for going above and beyond in her work at UVA Health:

"Betsy is not only kind and thoughtful — she's also incredibly calm, patient, and selfless. She's always available and seems magically able to stop what she is doing at any moment.

"Besty is phenomenal at understanding what families need, even when they cannot quite express it. She is genuine and non-judgmental. She has an amazing ability to handle tricky situations and communicate hard things in compassionate ways which makes sense to families.

“Betsy's quick thinking, knowledge of resources, and ability to connect with families is literally lifesaving! We're so grateful to have Betsy as part of our team.”

In Her Own Words

Phipps joined UVA Health 28 years ago and has worked tirelessly to support countless patients and families over the years. What does she love most about her role? "I get to work every day with so many people I admire. This includes our patients and families, who rise to meet challenges in truly amazing ways! I also get work with brilliant and devoted providers, professionals, and staff who never cease to amaze me. I feel very rewarded whenever I am aware of making a positive impact on families. Those times provide affirmation that I am doing what I love to do." 

Sue Dugan, DPA, MSW, LCSW, has been Phipps’ manager since March 2025. She was familiar with Phipps as a LCSW in pediatrics since 2021. "Working with her is always a pleasure," describes Dugan. "She has a quiet determination and is the greatest advocate for her patients and supportive of team members, too."

Dugan hails Phipps as "an exemplary employee,” adding: "She is creative, dependable, and always up to help with a challenge. Not only does she help with coverage — she trains, onboards, and precepts new employees. Betsy has excellent clinical skills and is always willing to talk through a case. She's compassionate and caring, building relationships with staff and patients alike. She fosters trust, is empathetic, and has a way of making you feel supported in every encounter — even the difficult ones."

We thank our UVA Health social workers who support our strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all, and initiatives such as community engagement, health outcomes, and superior patient safety; and our ASPIRE value of empathy by fostering an environment of compassion, engagement, and understanding to build trust and support for patients, families, team members, and communities.

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.