Gateway Medical Center recently honored 123 employees for their service to the community via their hospital jobs. "You're all here, because you are devoted to serving others. It is evident every day in your work. We cannot thank you enough," said Aaron Hazzard, interim CEO for Gateway.

The 109 employees who were honored for their five-year increments of service had a combined total of 1,101 years as hospital employees. Contributing the most to that number is William Poindexter, Sterile Processing Team Leader. Also with significant longevity is Judy McLeskey, R.N., Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Employees of the Month for 2009 were also recognized and among them, Family Nurse Practitioner Teresa Cook was named Employee of the Year. Cook serves as the medical provider in Gateway Medical Center's Employee and Occupational Health office and was honored for her outstanding efforts ensuring convenient access to flu shots for employees.

Two Department managers also received awards. The Clinical Manager of the Year Award for 2009 went to Nina Jackson, Director of Critical Care Nursing and 13-year employee. Kevin Rau, Director of Materials Management and six-year employee earned the Non-Clinical Manager of the Year Award for 2009.