Height named CMH Employee of the Year
Infusion nurse manager receives "Beacon Award"
Prince Frederick, MD (May 4, 2009) - Maria Height, lead registrar for the admissions department, was named by Calvert Memorial Hospital as Employee of the Year for 2008. Height, who joined CMH in 1999, is noted for her positive attitude and willingness to help others.
"Maria is always cheerful and pleasant regardless of how busy we are," said Karen Smith, director of admissions. "She is an excellent employee and a great asset to the hospital."
In addition to Height, the other employees nominated for outstanding performance in 2008 were Linda Tierney, credentials specialist with the medical staff office; Debbie Thompson, administrative assistant for the performance improvement department; Lori Moreland, registrar in the infusion therapy center and security officer John Katz.
Jan McBain, nurse manager of the infusion therapy center, won the hospital's Beacon Award, presented to the manager who exemplifies outstanding leadership skills. McBain, who joined CMH in 1979, was recognized for her problem-solving skills and ability to empower others.
"Jan is always encouraging her staff to strive for excellence by offering them opportunities to advance their education and grow professionally," said Barbara Polak, vice president for clinical services. "She often goes the extra mile for our infusion patients and their families."
Three other CMH managers were also nominated. They were Michele Bowen, director of the laboratory, Diane Couchman, director of surgical services and Jennifer Stinson, director of case management.
The 34th Annual Employee Awards ceremony celebrated many accomplishments during the past year. CMH employees were recognized for their years of service, for their attention to quality and their commitment to improving service.
"Calvert Memorial may be a small hospital but I challenge you to find an organization with a bigger heart," said Dean Schleicher, chairman of the CMH board of directors, "a more involved and committed employee team, a more quality driven medical staff or a better track record for safety and innovation."
"It is my pleasure to serve on the board of this hospital," said Schleicher, "and I am so proud of the extraordinary work that you do. Tonight is your night, so enjoy it."
Star Awards were presented to those CMH departments that provide exceptional customer service. The family birth center was honored for the best inpatient unit. It consistently receives high marks from new mothers who appreciate the personalized care and clinical expertise. Woman's Wellness was recognized as best outpatient department. Complementary health and nuclear medicine took top honors in the community and diagnostic categories, respectively.
In all, the program honored 127 employees who contributed 1,510 years of service. The top service award went to Diane Jones and Marilyn Montgomery for 35 years with CMH. Seven employees were recognized for 30 years of service. They were Doris Boldley, Susan Dohony, Carrie Forrest, Carol Mackiewicz, Bonnie McGuffin, Karen C. Miller and Susan Perciasepe.
Retirees Carole Bright, human resources, 32 years; Carrie Forrest, vice president of human resources, 30 years; Lynn Hill, nursing, 18 years; Carolyn Offer, housekeeping six years and Mary Ellen Steveling, educator, 15 years were honored for their years of service.
Forrest, who joined CMH in 1978 as a secretary in the personnel department, rose through the ranks to personnel assistant, manager and then director before being named vice president in 1989. Her contributions were celebrated at a retirement party earlier in the year.
"Carrie (Forrest) truly embodies the heart of Calvert Memorial Hospital," said CMH President and CEO Jim Xinis. "Her empathy and kindness are an example that we can all follow."
Maria Height, lead registrar for the admissions department, was named by Calvert Memorial Hospital as Employee of the Year for 2008.
Jan McBain, nurse manager of the infusion therapy center, won the hospital’s Beacon Award, presented to the manager who exemplifies outstanding leadership skills.
CMH Vice President for Human Resources Carrie Forrest (pictured with husband Jim) retired after 30 years. It was fitting that she said good-bye at the employee awards banquet, which she helped to plan each year.
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