2014 Crystal Eagle Leadership Award

George Dean Mills, MBA, FASHE, CEM, CHFM, CHSP

The Crystal Eagle Award is presented annually to an ASHE member whose contributions have affected the health care facility management profession and made a difference to the Society. Often referred to as “ASHE’s lifetime achievement award,” this award recognizes those who have been instrumental in the creation and optimization of healing environments.

This year’s Crystal Eagle recipient is George Mills, MBA, FASHE, CEM, CHFM, CHSP, director of the Department of Engineering at the Joint Commission. George Mills began his career in health care in a 170-bed facility in rural Minnesota as the director of environmental services with a third-party managemen served in several other roles in the industry, but most of his career has focused on regulatory compliance.

Mills’s desire to help educate others has made him a driving force behind many improvements for health care consumers as well as for those working in health care organizations. In his role with the Joint Commischanges in standards and practicHospital Equipment Maintenance Requirements from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). In addition, he helped revitalize the Healthcare Engineers Society of Northern Illinois (HESNI), where he has served on the board as President and Chair of Legacy. He continues to be a vital member of the chapter and stays committed to the advancement of health care facility management.

Mills was nominated by LaMar Davis, CHFM, CHSP, CHC. His nomination was supported by many ASHE leaders.