HCA Foundation supports the establishment of the Shanta Hinson Nursing Memorial Fund

Through the generosity of the HCA Foundation, The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee has established The Shanta Hinson Nursing Memorial Fund in loving memory of Shanta Hinson, a beloved nurse, mentor, and leader at Tristar Horizon Medical Center. This fund will support a future scholarship program for residents of Dickson County who aspire to pursue a career in nursing — continuing Shanta’s legacy of mentorship to the next generation of nurses. 

Shanta dedicated over 35 years to Tristar Horizon, beginning as a nursing tech and rising through the ranks to become Director of the Medical Surgical Unit. Her leadership was marked by excellence. 

Beyond the metrics, Shanta was known as “The Director with the Heart.” Her compassion for patients and staff, her humility, and her gift for mentoring nurses into leadership roles made her a pillar of the hospital community. 

She championed new graduate nurses, creating support programs for night and weekend shifts, and served as a BLS faculty member — training over 20 instructors and helping the hospital become a certified training site. Her professional affiliations included the American Nurses Association, the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses. 

Outside the hospital, Shanta was a vibrant force in her community. She taught children’s camps at her church, spoke at the Lion’s Club and Women’s Club, and served as a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness — sharing her own journey to encourage others to get screened. 

Though Shanta lost her battle with breast cancer, her spirit continues to inspire all who knew her. And her passion for nursing will be felt for generations to come. Donations for the fund can be made online.