After a three-year pause due to the pandemic, the John R. Melin Appreciation Award is back to honor four IU Health Management Hospital team members who have gone above and beyond their job descriptions. .
Made possible through a gift from the late Dr. John R. Melin and his wife, Virginia, the John R. Melin Appreciation Award is usually presented annually to a team member of IU Health Methodist Hospital who has always beyond normal expectations. This year, to make up for the pandemic years without awards, four outstanding employees were honored.
Nominated by team members, the winners will receive a cash prize of $1,500 to honor behind-the-scenes work, peer support, and overall professional excellence. To be eligible for the award, a team member must have worked for IU Health Methodist Hospital for at least three years.
The 2023 winners are:
Director of Information Services Mary Brown, RN. During her 25 years at IU Health Methodist Hospital, Mary Brown has earned admiration for her “open-minded” attitude, willingness to help any and all hospital staff, as well as her dedication to witness Her team members grow in their profession. Nominee Marilyn Johnston said: “Mary Brown is a humble leader who is committed to the values of IU Health, our team and the future of healthcare delivery in the system. IU Health system.”
Environmental Services Team Leader Kenny Clay, EVS, ED. Kenny Clay never waits for someone to ask for help; he asks IU Health Methodist Hospital team members and the patient’s family if they need anything and then he gets it. Examples include offering to pick up food for busy staff and purchase recliners for visiting patients. And, for 12 years, he did this with a smile on his face. “I have never met an employee like him before,” said nominee Kelsey Norris.
Clinical nurse Branden Hinojosa, RN. “Brandy” Hinojosa has been with IU Health Methodist Hospital for nearly 20 years, regularly taking on new roles and enhancing her expertise. But it is her generous spirit that is what stands out for nominee Teresa Byrd most. Brandy has been known to help patients with limited conditions by paying for medication or home clothes, giving birthday presents to unmarried patients, etc. Byrd says: “She does anything. Anything possible to help or find someone who can.
Patient Care Assistant Doris Howard, PCA. Better known by the nickname “Miss Doris,” Doris Howard ensures patients never feel she is in a hurry, even on busy days. With her teammates, she is equally patient, lovingly teaching and guiding for nearly 30 years. Recently considering retirement, she couldn’t let go of her passion for her job and continued to work part-time. As nominee Rebecca Swift said, “Miss Doris truly exemplifies IU Health values without any effort whatsoever.”
To make a gift that reflects your family’s charitable priorities, contact the IU Health Foundation at 317.962.1777 or Foundationinfo@iuhealth.org.
