Concordia Lutheran Ministries recently announced a new way to recognize employees for exceptional service, which will now serve as Concordia's highest employee honor: the Stephen W. Johnson Mission Award.

The award is named for Concordia's late chairman of the board of directors, Stephen W. Johnson, who served at Concordia for 19 years before passing away June 11.

An employee-led committee created the new award to preserve his memory and promote the recognition of employees' Christ-like hearts.

The nomination period will run from Jan. 1 through March 12. Current or former residents and patients, fellow Concordia employees or members of the community can nominate current Concordia employees by filling out an application and describing how the nominee shows a dedication to Concordia's mission, Christ-like heart and commitment to person-centered care.

Access the Stephen W. Johnson Mission Award application online at www.concordialm.org/swjmissionaward.