HERMISTON, Ore.-The Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) employee, manager, physician/provider and volunteer of the year were honored at an awards ceremony on February 25.
A total of 66 nominees, recognized anonymously by their colleagues, were invited to the awards ceremony attended by GSHCS leadership, that included lunch and refreshments.
“There’s nothing better than receiving recognition from people on your left and right who know you,” Good Shepherd President and CEO Art Mathisen said at the ceremony. “All those recommended for these awards, you did something above and beyond that was recognized.”
Volunteer of the Year
Micki Mikami was recognized for over three decades of volunteer service and honored for her “dedication, dependability and unwavering commitment that have made a lasting difference for Good Shepherd,” according to her nomination letter, which was read at the ceremony.
“This just floors me, I’m usually behind the scenes, but it’s quite an honor,” said Mikami, who has lived in Hermiston for over 50 years and has been volunteering at Good Shepherd in many different capacities for over 30 years.
“There were still greeters at the doors back when I started,” said Mikami, recalling her time volunteering at Good Shepherd. “I’ve also volunteered at reception, and I really enjoy being over in the Medical Plaza now. Just being associated with Good Shepherd keeps me coming back.”
Employee of the Year
Hunter Michel, a Medical Assistant in Cardiology at Good Shepherd, was recognized for her reliability, dedication, and for “consistently delivering care that upholds Good Shepherd’s ICARE values, putting patients first and truly representing the very best of Good Shepherd.”
“I’ve worked very hard all year and I’m extremely proud to serve our community,” Michel said after receiving her award.
Manager of the Year
Cherie Wilson, who has been with Good Shepherd for 35 years, and currently serves as the Manager of the Family Birth Center at GSHCS, was honored as Manager of the Year.
Wilson was recognized for her “integrity, compassion, unwavering commitment to patients and staff, and for empowering her team to grow and thrive.”
“I’m honored, but there are so many others that are more deserving,” said Wilson. “We have such an amazing team, we all work together, and the department runs the way it does because of them.”
Provider of the Year
David Erlenbush, PA-C, with GSHCS Urgent Care, was honored as the Provider of the Year for providing compassionate and thorough care and for being “calm, positive and fully present, earning the trust of both patients and colleagues.”
“It means a lot to be able to help and serve and be a part of this community,” said Erlenbush. “I’m grateful to be a part of Good Shepherd, and for all the staff and support here.”
More information about recognizing a staff member at Good Shepherd Health Care System for exceptional care, service, or for going above and beyond, is available online.
