Vandalia Health’s Kerns-Galloway honored for statewide impact in recovery support

November 10, 2025

Jessica Kerns-Galloway, PRSS, MHT, Doula, Mother Baby Care Co-Coordinator, a leader in peer recovery support at Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center, has been named the 2025 Recovery Community Statewide Impact Award of the Year recipient by the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Office of Drug Control Policy, and the Bureau for Behavioral Health.

The annual award honors individuals and organizations across West Virginia that demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovation and impact in supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders. Kerns-Galloway was recognized for her leadership in advancing recovery efforts throughout the region and her dedication to creating accessible, compassionate pathways to care for patients and families in north central West Virginia.

At Davis Medical Center, Kerns-Galloway works closely with patients and community partners to promote recovery awareness and prevention. Her ongoing efforts include supporting patients through treatment and aftercare services, coordinating resources with community partners and advocating for continued investment in peer recovery initiatives at the local and state levels. She has played a key role in organizing and participating in local and statewide initiatives such as the West Virginia Goes Purple Proclamation, which raises awareness about addiction recovery and the power of prevention, and National Save a Life Day, which provides free naloxone training and resources to help prevent overdose deaths.

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized among so many who share this passion,” Kerns-Galloway said. “Recovery is more than just healing — it's about connection. It's about seeing people for who they are, not where they have been, and meeting them with compassion, hope and understanding at their most vulnerable moments. Every person deserves someone who believes in them and stands beside them with no judgment as they rediscover their worth, their purpose and their own hope. There is no greater award than witnessing someone go from merely surviving to truly living — thriving and making a positive impact in our communities. At Vandalia Health, and as a community, we break the stigma that surrounds addiction and create a safe and supportive space for those seeking help."

“This recognition is truly deserved,” said Diana Landsverk, RN, BSN, MBA, Chief Nursing Officer for Davis Medical Center and Chief Nursing Officer for Davis Health System. “Jessica’s compassion and expertise have made a tremendous difference for patients and communities across our region. She embodies Vandalia Health’s mission to improve the lives of West Virginians by supporting the whole person — mind, body and spirit.”

Kerns-Galloway was recognized at the West Virginia Peer Recovery Support Services and Recovery Housing Conference and again at the Appalachian Addiction and Prescription Drug Abuse Conference, both held in September in Charleston. Her work exemplifies Vandalia Health’s ongoing commitment to strengthening recovery pathways and improving behavioral health outcomes across West Virginia.

For more information about behavioral health and recovery services at Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center, visit DavisHealthSystem.org.