[citation needed] Prior to Dr. Quinn, Sullivan created and served as co-executive producer of the Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning one-hour drama series The Trials of Rosie O'Neill.
In the 1989–90 season, two of Sullivan’s telefilms, both of which dealt with social issues, aired on NBC and CBS in November sweeps.
Most notably, A Cry For Help: The Tracey Thurman Story dramatized the landmark federal lawsuit that resulted in legislation to strengthen police responsibility toward battered wives.
In addition, it received a special commendation from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for its use as a training instrument for law enforcement officers.
As well, she has received top honors from the Women’s American Medical Association, the National Organization of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the YWCA USA, Catholics In the Media, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and an Emmy citation from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for her contributions to the medium.