The TAMHO Awards and Recognition program is designed to honor individuals and organizations leading efforts to improve the behavioral health care industry in Tennessee. The list of past honorees is a virtual "who’s who" in regard to behavioral health care in the state—those who have effected positive change and affected lives for the better.

Rukeyser was presented with the "President’s Award" for keeping the consumer’s interests foremost in decision making; being accessible to all mental health stakeholders, including providers; her unquestionable integrity in standing up for what is right; and the conscientious manner in which she has carried out her duties and responsibilities as commissioner of the DMHDD.

Swinford received the first-ever TAMHO "Personal Courage Award" for being an outstanding example of someone who has overcome a mental illness and has given back to the community. As director of Consumer Affairs for the DMHDD, he is responsible for policy development, coalition building and mediation concerning the state mental health delivery system and the people whose lives are affected by those policies. He is also the ADA coordinator for the department as well as the designated conservator for adults in state facilities.

Commenting on the awards, Rukeyser stated that individuals like Swinford have been key to the success the DMHDD has achieved since she’s been commissioner.

"The Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities is comprised of many wonderful people who contribute to our shared success," Rukeyser said. "I am grateful for this award and appreciate the responsiveness of consumers and other advocates who have helped make Tennessee a better place for everyone."