08/05/2026
For years, Harriet Turner has quietly made a difference in the lives of others. Now, the longtime Missouri Baptist Medical Center Ballas Boutique volunteer is being recognized with statewide honors for her remarkable spirit of service.
Harriet recently received a Champions of Missouri Award from U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt’s office, recognizing Missourians who have shown exemplary service to their communities and the state of Missouri. The tribute was entered into the Congressional Record in February, and Harriet was formally presented with the award in July.
After retiring in 2013 from a 25-year nursing career at Missouri Baptist, Harriet returned to the hospital less than a year later as a volunteer at the Ballas Boutique gift shop. Today, she continues to support patients, families, visitors, and team members through her warm presence and dedication to service.
“It makes me feel good to help other people,” Harriet said. “Because you are outside of yourself. You are doing something for someone else.”
Beyond her work at the hospital, Harriet has helped organize a community garden that provides fresh produce to a local food pantry and volunteers with the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition’s Project Dream Dress program.
Congratulations, Harriet, and thank you for the compassion, kindness, and service you bring to Missouri Baptist every day. 💙