Employee Recognition Program Recipients
3rd Quarter 2024 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 3rd Quarter of 2024 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Community Treatment Youth - Lincoln County Team
Congratulations to the Community Treatment Youth - Lincoln County Team,
recipient of this quarter’s Team Partnership Award. The team consists of
Amanda Bartz, Taryn Barna, April Bayer, Daphney Brandenburg, Brooke Lampe,
Jennifer Staeven, Courtney Welhouse, and Sam Zoellner.
The Team was recognized for:
- Consistently demonstrating and role modeling our Core Values of Partnership and Continuous Improvement;
- Excelling in their day-to-day job duties; this team goes above and beyond to identify innovative and creative ways to collaborate with our community partners;
- Serving as active participants in initiatives around the state to improve professional collaboration between child welfare and behavioral health in an effort to improve outcomes for youth, families, and staff across programs;
- Planning and implementing training with our partners at Lincoln County Department of Social Services;
- Involvement in Lincoln County’s Youth Justice Collaborative and playing an active role in implementing new approaches to addressing truancy and aggression in the Merrill and Tomahawk school districts;
- Involvement in the multi-disciplinary Attendance Matters Committee that develops individualized plans with youth referred to the committee for truancy.
- The Lincoln Youth team’s efforts have solidified NCHC’s place at the community table. If there is a discussion about youth in Lincoln County, NCHC will be included. The collaborative, professional relationships this team has developed and maintained with Social Services, Merrill School District, Tomahawk School District, and youth-serving agencies like Boys and Girls Club has significantly advanced the reputation and services of Community Treatment and NCHC in Lincoln County. The relationships they have built support people across agencies in working together to meet the needs of individual consumers.
The team was nominated by Erica Huffman, Clinical Coordinator.
2nd Quarter 2024 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 2nd Quarter of 2024 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Jackie Nikolai, Registration Specialist, Merrill Center
Congratulations to the Jackie Nikolai, recipient of this quarter’s
Service Excellence Award.
Jackie was Recognized for:
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Effectively leading by example and her consistent communication
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The trust she builds with clients and staff that is based on support and kindness
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Her welcoming nature, reliability, and proactive approach
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Her voice of reason, positivity, and high-quality work ethic
Nominated by Allison Smith.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Community Treatment Nursing Team
Congratulations to the Community Treatment Nursing Team, recipient of this
quarter’s Team Partnership Award. The team consists of Erin Wachtendonk,
Colleen Yaatenen, Tricia Kurtz, Heather Phelps, and Noel Boismenue.
The Team was Recognized for:
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Creating a solid and supportive work environment
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Implementing a new document to streamline process for pertinent patient information
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Exceeding dashboard expectations for over a year
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Collaboration with programs and providers to ensure proper care and safety for all consumers
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Continuing to build strong relationships with consumers
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Detail-oriented and truly embrace the team approach
The team was nominated by Becky Kopp and Jennie Comfort.
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Matt Karpinsky, Registered Nurse, Adult Hospital
Congratulations to the Matt Karpinsky, recipient of this quarter’s
Person-Centered Service Award.
Matt was Recognized for:
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His unwavering dedication to providing care that is least restrictive, trauma-informed, and Person-Centered
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His advocacy for patients and his comfort and ability to provide constructive feedback to his peers.
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His passion for mentoring students
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His dedication to his coworkers as “Staff Morale Specialist”
Nominated by Samantha Hable, Wendy Peterson, Caitlin Jeske, Terri Ryan, Brandi McDonough & Katie Morgan.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Jacie Cihlar, Manager of Pharmacy
Congratulations to the Jacie Cihlar, recipient of this quarter’s
Service Excellence Award.
Jacie was Recognized for:
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Her leadership through a Pyxis upgrade as well as multiple contract and vendor changes to find cost savings to benefit NCHC
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Her ability to manage staff and keep operations running smoothly
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Her kindness, caring, transparency, and encouragement of staff to bring new ideas forward.
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“ The department culture has changed drastically, and employees truly feel valued under her supervision.”
Nominated by Kendra Eisner
1st Quarter 2024 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 1st Quarter of 2024 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Transportation and Purchasing Team
Congratulations to the Transportation & Purchasing Team, recipient of the Outstanding Team Partnership Award for this quarter. This collaborative team was recognized for:
- Assisting with the closure of the ADS building in Wausau, these staff worked seamlessly together to load items to transfer to different locations, clear garbage into dumpsters, and were so supportive through it all.
- They worked hard without on-site supervision of ADS Antigo Manager so Antigo staff could continue to support daily operations.
- Their supportive teamwork and positive attitudes helped make a large job seem small.
The following Team members were included in the nomination for their efforts above:
Jenny McKenzie, Chad Adams, Devin Klobucnik,
Jill Nelson, Christopher Geurink
The Transportation & Purchasing Team was nominated by Jessica Pyke.
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Jennifer Meddaugh, Mental Health Therapist, Adult Behavioral Health Hospital
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ongratulations to the Jennifer Meddaugh, Mental Health Therapist in Adult
Behavioral Health Hospital, recipient of the Outstanding Person-Centered
Service Award for this quarter. Jennifer was recognized for:
- Consistently providing excellent standard of care in therapy groups.
- Commitment to integrity and teamwork.
- Her energy, kindness, and passion for high-quality work.
- Positive influence on those around her as well as her expertise.
Jennifer was nominated by Rebekah Strege, Tracie Robinson, and Chelsea Jenness in the Youth Hospital.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Peyton Stefan, Manager of HIM
Congratulations to Peyton Stefan, recipient of this quarter’s Outstanding
Leadership Award.
Peyton was Recognized for:
- Identifying improvement opportunities for inpatient professional coding
- For identifying, researching, and implementing improvement strategies transitioning from time-based documentation to patient complexity methodology.
- For her integrity, accountability, performance improvement, and collaboration.
Nominated by Sarah Rothmeyer and Tom Onan.
4th Quarter 2023 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 4th Quarter of 2023 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Bobby Splinter, Director of Accounting
Congratulations to Bobby Splinter, recipient of this quarter’s Outstanding Leadership Award.
Bobby was Recognized for:
- His negotiation skills with banking partners that resulted in NCHC receiving $45K/month in interest revenue.
- Consistency in striving to make a financial difference so we can afford to provide the best quality service to our community.
- His ability to spot risks and make impactful decisions
- Relating well with his team and makes them feel comfortable.
Nominated by April Opper.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Kimberly Moore, Assistant Director of Acute Care Services
Congratulations to Kimberly Moore, recipient of this quarter’s Outstanding Leadership Award.
Kimberly was Recognized for:
- Her support of Crisis Professionals that goes above and beyond
- Her knowledge of current laws, policies, & professional practices
- Her kindness and thoughtfulness with staff in difficult situations
- Wonderful attitude, calming personality, and professionalism
- Her leadership, clinical support, and advocacy for staff
Nominated by Austin Hettinga.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Adult Crisis Stabilization & Lakeside Recovery Teams
Congratulations to the Adult Crisis Stabilization and Lakeside Recovery Team, recipient of this quarter’s Team Partnership Award.
The Team was Recognized for:
- Seamless collaboration while relocating the ACSF program to the new space while maintaining high levels of care
- For their patience and adaptability with renovation and relocation timelines
- Dedication to continuous improvement by identifying and suggestingways to improve client care in the new units
The team was nominated by Wendy Peterson.
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Maggie Mishall, Behavioral Health Professional, YCSF
Congratulations to the Maggie Mishall, recipient of this quarter’s
Person-Centered Service Award. Maggie was nominated for this award on
behalf of a patient’s mother.
Maggie was Recognized for:
- Outstanding collaboration with Crisis to provide appropriate level of care for patients
- Parent testimonial stated that their child “talks about Maggie every day” and her child ”still uses her coping skills daily.”
- Reassurance and great communication with families and parents
- with youth in YCSF to make them feel comfortable
Nominated by Wendy Peterson on behalf of the family member of patient.
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Candy Messer, Registration Specialist, Antigo
Congratulations to the Candy Messer, recipient of this quarter’s
Service Excellence Award.
Candy was Recognized for:
- Her friendly and patient demeanor with clients and the time she takes to help clients understand processes and what is needed
- Her dependability and ability to work independently with “quiet perseverance”
- Her collaboration and helping coworkers by lightening their workloads and picking up tasks to help things stay on schedule
Nominated by Jessica Pyke.
The Outstanding Leadership Awards will be announced soon!
3rd Quarter 2023 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 3rd Quarter of 2023 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Antigo Adult Day Services Team
Congratulations to the Antigo Adult Day Services Team members of Melissa Dziondziakowski, Melissa Labecki, and Michele Genke. The 3 M’s were selected as the recipient of this quarter’s Team Partnership Award. They were recognized for going above and beyond to welcome people, their positive approach with clients and staff, and how they demonstrate respect and joy throughout the workday.
“ I was immediately welcomed by all three ladies. They all went above and beyond in their kindness, and assistance with showing me how and what to do during the program day. Each lady has such a positive approach with the clients and with staff you automatically feel welcomed at their program site. I had observed how they each interact with the clients and the respect and joy that is demonstrated throughout the workday it is such a pleasure to be part of.”
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Brittney Mengel, Outpatient Services
Brittney Mengel is the recipient of the Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. She was recognized for knowledge and keeping her self up to date on current programming to assist people in ways outside her job.
“Brittney knows how to connect people with services and stays up to date on the latest in field of AODA treatment, programming, groups, community resources, and state services. She stays up to date on the latest in field of AODA treatment, programming, groups, community resources, and state services.”
Brittney was nominated by Carrie Paisar, Outpatient Services.
Outstanding Leadership Award
Sam Hable, Manager of Inpatient Services
Congratulations to Samantha Hable for her outstanding work and recognition for this quarter’s Outstanding Leadership Award. Sam was nominated by a group of employees who provided a wonderful nomination form filled with testimonials regarding Sam’s leadership.
“One of the most outstanding aspects of Sam’s leadership is her ability to inspire and influence those around her. She has a unique talent for fostering a positive work environment where employees feel valued and supported. The staff on the Behavioral Health Hospitals genuinely believe that Sam cares for their well-being, all while maintaining professional boundaries. This balance of empathy and professionalism is a testament to Sam’s exceptional leadership style.”
“Sam’s communication skills are nothing short of excellent. She maintains an open and transparent line of communication with her team, readily making herself available when staff need her guidance or support. Her open-door policy and remarkable follow-through ensure that her staff feels heard and valued, contributing to a more cohesive and motivated team.”
“Sam’s dedication to continuous improvement is evident in her leadership style. She embraces change, leverages purpose-driven data, encourages creativity, and seeks feedback to drive the advancement of excellence within her unit and the organization. Her commitment to continuous improvement aligns perfectly with our core values in this area.”
Sam was nominated by Katie Morgan, Matthew Karpinsky, Brandi McDonough, Alex Schires, Taylor Tomaszewski, and Sydney Tulpan.
1st Quarter 2023 Recipients
The following employees were nominated in the 1st Quarter of 2023 for their outstanding demonstration of our NCHC Core Values. Congratulations to the following individuals and teams for their achievements.
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Heidi Heise, APNP, Psychiatry
Heidi Heise provides Person-Centered Service through her commitment to
providing excellent patient care and her efforts to collaborate effectively
with internal and external partners. Heidi makes the extra effort to meet
consumer needs by being flexible and individualized. She seeks to understand
the needs of each of her patients and to provide services that meet their
unique needs. Heidi takes the time to collaborate frequently with NCHC
colleagues and goes above and beyond to work with her patients' team of
providers to problem solve and develop and carry out an effective treatment
plan. Her door is always open for Community Treatment and Outpatient providers
and she consistently carves out time for collaboration.
"Heidi regularly goes above and beyond what is in her job requirements to ensure that patients/ clients are cared for exceptionally well. Her willingness to collaborate with the Lincoln and Langlade teams is a large reason for successful treatment outcomes. Her ability to think creatively and quickly is instrumental in creating an effective and progressive treatment plan for clients. Heidi consistently cultivates an environment of compassion and understanding while also gathering facts and truth to ensure growth and stability for clients we work with. Her collaborative approach with all providers and flexibility to meet Client needs has been profound in our rural counties to show that she is not just a half hour medication management provider or prescriber, she strives to know each person she works with and meet them exactly where they are at, no questions asked."
Brittney Mengel, Dr. Vogel, Faye Grosskreutz, Jodi Mikes. Matt Karpinsky, Sydney Tulpan, and Trevor Copeland were also nominated for this award.
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Chris Geurink, Purchasing
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ongratulations Chris Geurink of Purchasing, recipient of this quarter's
Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Chris' actions played a big part
in preventing a major disruption or drop in the quality of our services
in the Purchasing department. He was integral in keeping the programs
operating successfully during that highly stressful & challenging
time. Chris is never idle. When he completes his normal job tasks, he
looks for other projects and offers to help anyone in any department.
He is eager to learn and no job is too big or too small. Chris is a very
thoughtful and kind individual. He's empathetic and quick to lend an ear,
show compassion, or lift the spirits of anyone he can see is having a
tough day. He always has a smile on his face, has a great sense of humor
(in spite of the "Dad Jokes") and his attitude about work in
general, is more than any employer could hope for. It's pretty great having
him be part of our team.
Peggy Wedow was also nominated for this award. Chris was nominated by Jill Nelson.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Wausau Adult Day Services Team
Congratulations to the Adult Day Services Team in Wausau, selected as the recipient of this quarter's Team Partnership Award. The ADS team pulled on their work belts and organization hats and helped move, organize and set up the new ADS location on 3rd Avenue in Wausau. With the closure of other sites and the amount of consumer and office items was an enormous task to overcome to get the program up and running for our consumers. The ADS management was able to identify strengths in the staff and assign them tasks that they accomplished without direct supervision. ADS staff have been able to take on setting up the program based on their knowledge of the likes and preferences of our consumers and what works best for the overall flow of the program.
"We see daily ownership of our program and the care they provide to consumers."
The ADS Wausau Team includes Charles Frankiewicz, Lenise Vircks, Scott Jakel, Nicole Sitko, Wendy Pearson, Jamie Sparling, Kelly Alfsen, Audra Bohman, Connie Gulke, Kay Schenzel, Cindy Purdy, Darrell Hill, Isaac Jakel, and Jennifer Rothmeyer.
The Wausau ADS Team was nominated by Jennifer Rothmeyer. The Transportation Team was also nominated for this award.
4th Quarter 2022 Recipients
Outstanding Leadership Award
Giana Zubke-Brubacher, Community Treatment Youth
Congratulations to Giana Zubke-Brubacher, recipient of the Outstanding
Leadership Award. Giana is a member of the Community Treatment Youth team.
Karissa was nominated by Ryan Thiel.
“ Giana has been an amazing manager, I feel that I can go to her whenever I need help professionally or personally.”
“ Giana is consistently going above and beyond to make staff feel supported. Giana is always willing to offer support, answer questions, and make me feel valued.”
“ Giana’s willingness, support, collaboration, and dignity show that she is a true partner and leader in providing person-centered services, and our Core Values.”
“ Giana has a way of boosting morale within our team with all the continuous change and leading by example. This is what being a team is all about.”
Jamie Collins, Jennifer Rothmeyer and Erica Huffman were also nominated for this award.
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Bobbi Hansen
Congratulations to Bobbie Hansen of Community Treatment Youth
Bobbi is a service facilitator for Community Treatment Youth in Marathon County. She was nominated by Gina Lenz, Community Treatment Youth Clinical Coordinator, who says “Bobbi is one of the nicest and most genuine people I have ever met. She is deeply committed to helping others unconditionally. Even when encountering a challenging person, she finds a way to help them succeed. I admire her determination and ability to draw people in and lift them up when they need it most. She never gives up on people.”
Kristin King, Gina Laszewski and Kara Webb were also nominated for this award.
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Alex Eichten, Communications & Marketing
Congratulations Alex Eichten of the Communications & Marketing Department.
Alex was nominated because is continually learning new things and pushing
herself to be an outstanding member of the communications team and NCHC
team. Serving the entire organization, she is always looking at things
differently and asks meaningful questions to challenge what we have done
in past to look forward to the future.
“She is amazingly creative and really insightful.”
“Alex has a continual commitment to continuous improvement. She wants and makes things better in all aspects of her job and really strives to provide high quality work that is better and more effective than the previous work she may have done.”
“Alex embraces true partnership and also looks to think about better outcomes with her communication and design work. Asking the tough questions and thinking outside the box is a special trait she possesses.”
Alex was nominated by Jessica Meadows, Marketing & Communications Director.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Pharmacy Team
Congratulations to the Pharmacy Team! Congratulations to the Pharmacy Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The Pharmacy Team goes above and beyond daily to provide exceptional care to clients, residents, and staff. The entire team works diligently to meet high work demands and ensure all medications go out the door in a timely manner despite the ever-changing variables that need to be addressed daily to ensure smooth operation.
Congrats Pharmacy!
Pharmacy Employees include: Cindy Schreier, Dustin Ehster, Jacob Bognar, Joanne Krasselt, Jodi Swid, Kendra Eisner, Mary Derby, Mary Osheim, Megan Kruzicki, Nora Fellenz, Royal Anderson, Tara Renteria and Jacie Cihlar!
The Pharmacy Team was nominated by Kendra Eisner.
3rd Quarter 2022 Recipients
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
2 Recipients: Edd Hill and Savannah Severt
Congratulations to Edd Hill of Crisis Services
Edd works incredibly well with the team. He is collaboratively with partners,
clients and the team. He has a high level of professional integrity and
is always working towards the greater good for the community, NCHC, team
and those we serve. Edd constantly works to streamline communications
between partnering agencies and team members and he goes the extra mile
for those we serve. Edd was nominated by the Langlade County CCS Adult Team.
Congratulations to Savannah Severt of Pine Crest
Savanah has excellent work ethic and helps out in any way possible. She
takes feedback and also brings back feedback from residents to make helpful
suggestions. She is creative and has a way of making everyone smile. She
relates to everyone and helps people feel comfortable, especially our
dementia residents. She puts in 100% as soon as she walks through the door.
Savannah was nominated by the Brianna VandenHeuvel.
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Mel Wohlwend, Patient Access Antigo
Congratulations Mell Wohlwend of Patient Access Antigo Center. Mel was
nominated because she goes above and beyond to make sure clients’
needs are met. She keeps our office running smooth and communicates well
with staff and clients alike. Mel saw a need in our office and took college
classes to become an AODA counselor. She is working on her training now
while working in Patient Access.
Mel was nominated by Carrie Bussiere, Nanette Griese, and Kristin King.
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Accounting Team
Congratulations to the Accounting Team, recipient of the 3rd Quarter Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The Accounting Team worked many extra hours, coming in early, staying late and working weekends, to prepare our annual audit and Medicare/Medicaid cost reports. Much of the staff are in their first year at NCHC, and they did a fabulous job. The audit ended up going much more smoothly that previous years. This team replaced a team with over 50 years combined experience. They continually provide accurate, timely and transparent information to our decision makers so we can make informed decisions.
At the time of the nomination, the following Accounting Team members were included in the nomination for their efforts above:
April Opper, Dan Bailey, Merry Malone, Melissa LaPorte and Jill Nelson
The Accounting Team was nominated by Bobby Splinter.
Bobby wishes to also recognize the additional members of the accounting team including Patric Lanning, Angela Lepak, Cristy Maltbey and Gary Olsen.
The Pine Crest Appreciation Team was also nominated for this award.Outstanding Leadership Award
Karissa Nelson, Community Treatment
Congratulations to Karissa Nelson, recipient of the Outstanding Leadership
Award. Karissa is a member of the DBT implementation team and has been
a great leader. She is now operating a DBT group to enhance her skills
and attends weekly DBT consultation calls. In addition, she is supervising
employees who are completing their internship to become mental health
professionals. Karissa invests in her own professional development while
inspiring others to do so.
Karissa was nominated by Janelle Hintz.
1st Quarter 2022 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Youth Crisis Stabilization Team
Congratulations to the Youth Crisis Stabilization Team, recipient of NCHC’s
Outstanding Partnership Award.
Here are some of the great things the nomination form included:
“The Youth Crisis Stabilization Team has been asked to cover many different units and roles than what they were hired for. They have been asked to go outside their comfort zone many times to work on various BHS Acute Care units over the past year. This has helped each of them grow as floor staff, bringing them more skills to support their youth clients. They have been able to get closer as a team through discomfort, learning to support and rely on one another.”
“ The YCSF Team have helped to keep all the BHS Acute Care units running to make sure clients are receiving appropriate care and that the departments can continue to support the NCHC community.”
Adult Day Services Team, Wausau and Safety & Security Team were also nominated for this Award.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Katherine Crabtree, Mail/Copy Room
Congratulations to Katherine Crabtree recipient of the Outstanding Service Excellence Award for 1st Quarter. Katherine works in the Mail/Copy Room on the Wausau Campus and was nominated for her commitment to our NCHC Cores Values.
Katherine is presented with her Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award at the
March 2022 Management Meeting by Jessica Meadows, Communications &
Marketing.
“Katherine is very committed to NCHC and shows her Core Values on a daily basis. She shows her commitment to Continuous Improvement by asking questions and looking to improve processes when the opportunity presents itself. That may be with processes like mail sorting and sending, print preparation and other tasks and jobs she works on.”
"She show Partnership each day as she works with multiple departments and staff from across the organization to complete various print jobs, deliver mail and work on many tasks assigned that need a quick turnaround. And when I say quick.....Katherine is quick!”
“She is always willing to help in areas outside the mailroom and does it all with a smile. Katherine is focused and always willing to lend a hand any time she is asked.”
Outstanding Leadership Award
Josie Herman, Residential Services
Congratulations to Josie Herman of Residential, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Leadership Award for 1st Quarter.
“ Josie always has a positive attitude toward clients and staff.
She takes time to listen. Josie is always going above and beyond with
picking up extra shifts at our site or Jelinek. Clients adore her!”
“ Josie does not make you feel bad if you are sick or unable to work which alleviates extra stress. She is supportive and caring.”
“ Josie has worked her for almost 20 years. She is dedicated to client care and satisfaction.”
Josie was nominated by Kate Schultz, RCA. Gina Laszewski was also nominated for this Award.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Chuck Frankiewicz, Adult Day Services
Congratulations to Chuck Frankiewicz of Adult Day Services, recipient of the Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award.
“Chuck had been assisting a residential site due to short/sick staff,
he jumped in and was at one residential site and ran back and forth numerous
times to assist another residential site. Chuck did this numerous time
throughout the day. His ability to be calm during stressful situations
is something that not all staff have and can demonstrate.”
“To observe Chuck during these times is amazing! He is a person who demonstrates N.C.H.C. CORE VALUES TO A T. Chuck continues to jump in when needed without being asked he truly is a person that demonstrates and goes above his job duties.”
Chuck was nominated by Cindy Purdy, ADS. BriAnna Salas, Jessica Schreiber and Micki Alsteen were also nominated for this Award.4th Quarter 2021 Recipients
Outstanding Leadership Award
Lenise Vircks, Prevocational Services
Congratulations to Lenise Vircks of Prevocational Services, recipient of
NCHC’s Outstanding Leadership Award for 4th Quarter. Nominated by
Jamie Sparling, Lenise was recognized for outstanding Person-Centered
Service and exceptional Core Values. She inspires her team to work harder
and make things run smooth.
“Lenise is Person-Centered to the core! She deals with consumers and staff with compassion while working in high stress production facility. She always puts people before productions yet gets results for the local businesses that we partner with in order to provide work for consumers.”
“Quite frankly, seeing how hard Lenise works and still is a caring influence in our consumers’ life implores me to work harder to make things run smooth for our department.”
“Our consumers see Lenise as someone with authority who seems to understand and care for them. She has done this through many years of service.”
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Adult Day Services Wausau Team
Congratulations to the Adult Day Services Wausau Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Team Partnership Award for 4th Quarter. Nominated by Jennifer Rothmeyer, several employees on the team were individually called out for their contributions to the greater work that the team does. Kelly Alfsen, Jamie Bolzak, Scott Jakel, Nicole Knoblock, Cindy Purdy, Erica Koch and Mariah Raymond create a great working environment and help the ADS program run smoother and with a calm atmosphere.
“This team is great to work with and be a part of. The continually show the drive for wanting consumers to be successful. ADS is able to put aside many small things in benefit of the larger goal. Most of the ADS member have worked with the program for many years and have a drive to keep the program viable into the future.”
“By each of them taking on and doing what they do for the program….our consumers are happier and more vocal when they are at programming which shows their guardians and care providers they are happy."
The Prevocational Services Team in Wausau was also nominated for this award by Jennifer Rothmeyer.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Kristen Anderson, RN in Community Treatment
Congratulations to Kristen Anderson of Community Treatment, recipient of
the Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. Kristen is a registered
Nurse in Community Treatment & Outpatient. She was nominated by Lyndsey
Leach for her outstanding leadership, ability to be a role model and patient
advocate. Her reliability and accountability were shining stars on the
nomination form.
“She advocates for improvement, change, and better care for her consumers and they are truly lucky to have such a wonderful nurse on their side. In terms of her colleagues, she has demonstrated an aptitude for leadership by taking a massive hand in orienting all of our new nurses. She is able to effectively educate and teach, while also preparing these nurses for the independence and autonomy that comes with community treatment nursing. She has been an integral part of the team, and the one our nurses usually look to when they need advice, help, or questions answered. Despite being a constant resource, she does not seem weary of it, and instead glad to help her peers out."
“Kristen's actions and behaviors have a massive impact on not only her peers, but also the community as a whole, as she impacts a great deal of people who struggle with mental illness and substance use in the Wausau area. She is constantly trying to find better ways to serve her consumers, and I think a lot of consumers avoid crisis situations, inpatient stays, or increased struggles because they have Kristen on their side, advocating for them and there to help."
"Because of her experience, and education, she is great at spotting issues with consumers before they become crises, and getting them the appropriate help, attention, and services within the organization. Her peers in community treatment have had nothing but wonderful encouraging things to say about her and shout out often to the fact that they are extremely happy to have such a caring, compassionate, and strong presence on their team."
"She really is a fantastic human being and a nurse. We are so happy
to have her on this team..."
3rd Quarter 2021 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
IMS Team
Congratulations to the IMS Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The IMS Team was nominated twice this quarter by Kendra Eisner in Pharmacy and Ashley Downing of HIM/IMS. Team members include Todd Shnowske, Jennifer Moore, Lisa Murkowski, Chue Xiong and Lori Feck.
“This team worked countless hours across the entire organization to launch Go Live with Cerner Millennium. This team was crucial to making the transition go smoothly and have been a valuable resource for answering tough questions.”
“This was an entire team effort and had so many people involved in the project itself, but these people were the superstars!”
“A project like this is not for the faint of heart. It takes a ton of tenacity and patience to make sure we have the software to the state where it is ready to use on the floor.”
Also nominated for this award was the Jelinek Residential Team, Communications & Marketing, Pine Crest Gardening Team and Pine Crest Quality Team.Outstanding Service Excellence Service Award
Merry Malone, Accounting
Congratulations to Merry Malone, Accounting Assistant, recipient of NCHC’s
Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Marry was nominated by Bobby Splinter.
Bobby shared that
“Accounting had plans for training a newly hired employee in the
Cashier’s office, however the employee to train the new person decided
to depart our organization. Their backup had a family emergency, leaving
the new employee’s first day on the job with no trainer. Merry went
above and beyond by immediately jumping into the cashier’s office
and sitting with the new employee for the next week and a half, taking
time away from her daily/weekly tasks to train. Our new staff felt supported
and is better off to a better start than I could have imagined, given
the circumstances at hand. Merry has so much knowledge of the processes
and procedures. She did a terrific job.”
“Merry took the stress off the rest of the department. The Accounting team was extremely busy with preparing critical annual cost reports for Medicaid and Medicare related to MVCC and Pine Crest. Without Merry taking the lead, the rest of the department’s assignments would have fallen behind. Further, our residents and community were better served as we were able to keep the Cashier’s office open and operational.”
“Merry Continually exceeds expectations and has been instrumental in providing pertinent information to other staff on the history of our processes and procedures..”
“Merry’s great work, adaptability, and integrity make our organization and community better.”
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Alexa Kufalk, Outpatient Psychiatry
Congratulations to Alexa Kufalk, recipient of the Outstanding Person-Centered
Service Award. Alexa was nominated twice for the award this past quarter,
by Lindsay Leach and Cassie Krueger. Her teamwork with Cerner implementation
and her leadership skills as a nurse were both highlighted in her nominations.
“Alexa has been a terrific role model for not only her department, but for Community Treatment as well. She continually goes above and beyond by taking on extra roles, responsibilities, and helps out at our other work sites and locations as well. Recently she has taken on the role of Cerner Super User, which has been extremely beneficial for our entire team since she has put so much thought and care into taking that on and taking it on extremely well. Though this has added an extremely large amount of work to her already busy schedule, she does it without complaint, and with enthusiasm to help others. She is always looking for creative solutions to problems or issues we might face and is a leader among her peers. She is truly a wonderful nurse and has great passion for her job. You can see that she enjoys helping take care of those in her community, especially the children, and takes great pride in watching their accomplishments during their care.”
“Alexa is a great asset to have on the team as a leader for her peers, a source of knowledge, and as a role model for others in our department to look up to.”
Also nominated for this award was Al Barden, Chloe Nylund, Erika Koch, Heather Brownell, Jeff Nelson and Josie Herman.2nd Quarter 2021 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Community Corner Clubhouse
Congratulations to the Clubhhouse Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding
Team Partnership Award. The Clubhouse Team makes significant contributions
to advance the position and reputation of MVCC and NCHC by their efforts
to serve our community. Nominated by an IPS Employment Employee in Community
Treatment, the team was recognized for being a vital for consumers in
the IPS program.
Employees at Clubhouse include Mike Frankel, Patrick Bacher and Paia Yang.
“Clubhouse helps consumers keep working on and maintaining their financial independence and provide our IPS team the access to work with our consumers in a setting where we can work on resume building, job searching, interviewing, benefit reports and analysis. Clubhouse Team went way beyond to demonstrate that overall how valuable we can be working together and collaborating two teams to forma a stronger partnership for the future of the organization.”
“A proactive approach and caring attitude shown from Clubhouse created better relationships with our team, with our consumers seeing and feeling welcomed in the community. Clubhouse advocated daily the safety standards to their members and visitors….”
“Keeping their doors open during this these times in the community was a top priority and their success helped us keep building meaningful relationships with consumers, employers and our community.”
Also nominated for this award was the Motivational Interviewing Team and Volunteer Services Team.Outstanding Service Excellence Service Award
Cagney Martin, Staff Development Specialist
Congratulations to Cagney Martin, Staff Development Specialist, recipient
of NCHC’s Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Cagney consistently
achieves exemplary performance and has excelled in supporting the programs
and services of NCHC. She was nominated by Andrea Hebert who was quick
to point out that “Cagney is such as advocate for NCHC Person-Centered
Service and Core Values in everything she teaches and loops back to the
Core Values in any topic she is teaching.”
“She comes up with fun, creative ideas to keep our staff interested in learning and comes up with techniques to help them learn.”
“In Infection Prevention sessions, we have heard so many positives from staff that the sessions went great, real life oriented, and we made them fun with hands-on. We are actually seeing staff doing more cleaning of equipment. This impacts the health of everyone who is here at NCHC, staff, clients, visitors as our goal is to reduce and eliminate viruses from spreading.”
“Cagney also does a phenomenal job of teaching dementia as well as Person-Centered Service in orientation.”
Also nominated for this award was Sue Pyan and Nicole Krause of Pine Crest.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Kristin Verhulst, Community Treatment
Congratulations to Kristin Verhulst, recipient of the Outstanding Person-Centered
Service Award. Kristin is and Employment Specialist in Community Treatment
who exceeds standards and effectively works to ensure optimal patient
experience and uncompromising Person-Centered Service. Kristin was nominated
by a Community Treatment Nurse who submitted that “Kristin is a
vital member of our team who always has a positive attitude and never
scoffs when her assistance is needed.”
“Kristin makes our jobs easier and her help allows us to focus on helping our clients in other ways.”
“Not only does Kristin support our clients with finding and keeping jobs, she also assists them with schooling. Kristin often sees clients at their place of employment to ensure they are performing well, and does so at night at times.”
“Clients wouldn’t be able to be productive members of society without Kristin’s work.”
Also nominated for this award was Amanda Steinfest, Bradley Sperger, Carries Bussiere, David Peterson, DeeDe Grund, Micki Alfsteen, Rachel Reihle, and Shannon Butler.1st Quarter 2021 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Pine Crest Covid Unit Team
Congratulations to the Pine Crest Covid Unit Team, recipient of NCHC’s
Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The team was nominated by a member
of the team who felt that the teamwork and dedication of the entire team
shined during this pandemic. Your great work does not go unnoticed!
"This team had a large amount of stress put on them, caring for residents who were very sick. They worked with minimal help and equipment, often for long hours. They never questioned anyone’s job on the unit. With little preparation, their job was done without complaint. Very resourceful and able to come together as a team. This group deserves all the praise you can give them. A great team to work with!”
Also nominated for this award was the HIM Chart Retention Team, Community Corner Clubhouse Team and Adult Behavioral Health Hospital.Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Marie Santos Godleske Pine Crest, Food Services
Congratulations to Marie Santo Godleske of Pine Crest Food Services recipient of the NCHC’s Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Nominated by Pine Crest Appreciation Committee, Marie is well deserving of the honor.
“Especially throughout this pandemic, Marie is like sunshine on a cloudy day! She is always positive, friendly, energetic and has a great sense of humor. She is a joy to work with and works hard. She goes out of her way to do special things for staff and residents (i.e. garnishing their plates for anniversaries or birthdays).”
“Her positivity has been needed and much appreciated amongst staff and residents.”
“She has brought her homemade eggs rolls for staff a few times and has worked with Life Enrichment to coordinate special things.”
Jill Nelson in Business Operations was also nominated for this award.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Paia Yang, Clubhouse
Congratulations to Paia Yang of Clubhouse, recipient of the NCHC’s Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. Nominated by a member of her team who feels Paia passionate, compassionate, dedicated, caring, empathetic, and kind.
“Paia always brings the energy to Clubhouse. Whether it’s a good or a bad day, Paia engages with members equally. Paia is passionate, compassionate, dedicated, caring, empathetic, and kind. She truly enjoys her job and it shows every day. Even during the pandemic, as Clubhouse Employment Specialist, she was able to secure employment for members.
“Paia is a model employee following and believing in the Core Values of the organization. We have a small team and through the pandemic and all our challenges. She can be counted on to bring her best to the clubhouse. Everyone who works with her is impressed by her drive, spirit, and dedication to our members."
“Paia attains 15 Member Experience Surveys a month and it shows in our Patient Experience Score percentage - 93.6% of members find our service at Clubhouse to be Excellent.”
Other employees who were nominated for this award include Kelly Alfsen - Adult Day Services, Megan Arrowood - MVCC - Northern Reflections, Beverly Bailey - MVCC - Northern Reflections, Erika Koch - Adult Day Services, Brittany Kuehn - Behavioral Health Services, Betty Lloyd - Pine Crest - Long Term Care, Angela Schultz - Pine Crest - Long Term Care, Amanda Steinfest - Pine Crest - Post Acute Care, Amy Stiver - Pine Crest - Post Acute Care and Laurie Wegner - Pine Crest - Long Term Care.Outstanding Leadership Award
Christina Harris, Care Coordinator, Residential Services
The Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes a director, manager or supervisor
who inspires, influences and conducts themselves in a professional manner,
acting as a role model for others to follow in the workplace and our community.
Congratulations to Christina Harris, Care Coordinator - Residential Services
for being honored with the award this quarter.
“Christina truly cares about her employees but most of all cares about the residents.”
“ She goes out of her way to work longer and harder to make their lives the best they can be. She shows in care in the way she talks to them and makes sure all of their needs are met.”
“ As the Coordinator, she is good and fair to all of her employees. She will always help you if you need it and is always willing to listen if you have questions or concerns. If she doesn’t have the answer she will find it and get back to you.”
Nominated by Vicki Sheehan, Residential Care Assistant, Bissell Street. Congratulations Christina! Thank you for your outstanding leadership.
4th Quarter 2020 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
South Shore Post Acute Care, Mount View
Congratulations to the South Shore Post Acute Care Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The team was nominated by several employees for the response, care and willingness to adapt to adversity during the initial resident Covid-19 outbreak. The team is comprised of CNAs, nurses, housekeepers, MDS coordinator, Activities, Social worker, unit clerk, nurse manager. All coming together from different disciplines to make sure the residents are kept safe and continue to have the highest quality of care.
“The team on South Shore really stepped up. Upon finding out about positive residents and staff the team on South Shore banded together to ensure the residents of that unit where cared for. That first weekend many staff were asked to work extended or additional hours and continue to do so. They are working, sometimes 12 hour shifts, with a tight N95 masks that instantly makes you hot. PPE is put on and off constantly throughout the day going in and out of resident rooms. Every three days they are tested (which is not a pleasant experience), some coming in on their day off just to be tested. They are performing multiple job duties as other disciplines cannot go on the unit. They are working with residents who have the potential to be very sick and change instantly. And even though you can’t see it (b/c of the mask), there are still smiles!”
“They are supporting each other through the tears as the long hours and stress of COVID drains them at times. They are pulling the residents through as they are isolated from their families and their other resident friends. They are smiling and happy as they walk in each resident’s room, even though they know the risk of transmission is high.”
Congratulations to the Pine Crest Rehab Team, the Pine Crest MDS Quality Coordinators, Pharmacy and the CPI Training Team who were also nominated for this award.Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Michelle Lorbiecki, Community Treatment Team Lead
Congratulations to Michelle Lorbiecki, recipient of the NCHC’s Outstanding
Service Excellence Award. Michelle was nominated by staff in Community
Treatment. Michelle makes others feel inspired, empowered and supported.
She focuses on solutions rather than problems and brings unique perspective
to our meetings. She holds people accountable and takes time out to help everyone
“Michelle has made a lasting positive impact for numerous youth and families for over 11 years here at NCHC. Now that she is in a team lead role, she is able to help even more families by guiding all of our staff to provide the same exemplary service that she provides to the families they serve. She has made a huge impact on my life as well-she has inspired me and has uplifted me daily for over a decade and for that I am truly grateful.”
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Tricia Klemp, Community Treatment
Congratulations to Tricia Klemp of Community Treatment, recipient of the
NCHC’s Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. Nominated by a
member of her team who feels Tricia works with the most challenging individuals
and does so always with a smile on her face.
“Tricia is creative with suggestions and able to reframe things for her colleagues to help re-energize and motivate them. Her skill set after the DBT training she went through has taken her service delivery to another level and has really impacted the consumers she is working with in a positive way. Tricia was the first service facilitator to advance her motivational interviewing (MI) skills and take on a coaching role in our implementation of MI, despite the additional time commitment. She not only is interested in her own personal growth and change, but in motivating others to do the same for our consumers. Continuous Improvement is the core value Tricia represents most and she is motivated by her passion to advocate for and improve the lives of those we serve.”
Outstanding Leadership Award
Connie Gliniecki, Director of Nursing, MVCC
The Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes a director, manager or supervisor
who inspires, influences and conducts themselves in a professional manner,
acting as a role model for others to follow in the workplace and our community.
Congratulations to Connie Gliniecki, Director of Nursing at Mount View
Care Center for being honored with the award this quarter.
“Throughout this pandemic, Connie’s leadership at the Incident Command level, daily workday, and with partners and other agencies has been nothing short of spectacular.”
“She has done an exceptional job dealing with the complex issues we have faced and personally has given everything she can to the organization to keep our residents and staff safe.”
“I have worked closely with her on Covid issues and she has made my job so much easier.”
“She is pushed and pulled a million different directions and always had time to ask how people are doing.”
Congratulations Connie! Thank you for your outstanding leadership.
Congratulations to Tammy Buchberger and Gina Lenz who were also nominated for this award.3rd Quarter 2020 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Forest Jackson Team & Redeployed Staff
Congratulations to the Forest Jackson & Redeployment
Team, recipient of NCHC’s Outstanding Team Partnership Award. These
employees were recognized for their outstanding team work. Nominated by
a manager and a new employee, the team have shined in the face of adversity
through Covid-19.
"The Forest Jackson staff are completely incredible, they have taken us under their wing teaching us the ropes, seeing as this wasn’t a regular employment position. The staff have patience with asking questions, learning the ropes and getting to know all the residents and their needs. Just observing them makes me appreciate being able to help where I can. This experience of being able to work with the Forest Jackson staff provided a whole new view of NCHC and what it offers.”
Congratulations to Transportation who was also nominated for this award.Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Jessica Baumann, HIM
Congratulations to Jessica Baumann, recipient of the
NCHC’s Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Jessica was nominated
by staff in her department. Jessica recently volunteered to take on tasks
in the HIM department when several employees recently retired. Jessica
know every aspect of the job and she is willing to learn and teach others.
She has become a true leader in the HIM team and is the go-to person for
incoming calls, walk-ins and training staff.
“Jessica is always willing to help clients and coworkers with any questions and does with much compassion and patience. Jessica truly made my retirement transition easier with her quick learning capabilities and attention to detail.”
Congratulations to Linda Bever, Patient Financial Services and Nancy Schultz, Food Services who were also nominated for this award.Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
Linda Stankowski, Food Services
Congratulations to Linda Stankowski of Food Services, recipient of the
NCHC’s
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. Nominated by a member of another
team who feels Linda goes above and beyond to forge new connections with
residents and families.
“Linda is an employee in food services but she goes beyond the call of duty to make sure families and residents feel cared for. Linda sews as a side job. A hospice resident was requesting to wear long night shirts, bu was unable to due to their physical needs. Linda was very gracious and was able to use her skills to adapt night shirts on her own time so the resident was able to wear them. This act of kindness meets all our Core Values and shows the importance of relationships even when Linda did not know the residents or family.”
Congratulations to Pam Mack, Pine Crest who was also nominated for this award.Outstanding Leadership Award
Scott Van Ermen, Pharmacy
The Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes a director, manager or supervisor who
inspires, influences and conducts themselves in a professional manner,
acting as a role model for others to follow in the workplace and our community.
Congratulations to Scott Van Ermen of Pharmacy. Scott was nominated by
staff in another program.
“A Highlight Reel: 1. When Covid-19 was announced her personally made 14 gallons of hand sanitizer. Character isn’t found in job descriptions. 2. In our logistics and supplies subgroup he always stays on top of current news and is volunteering to help. 3. Tracking and controlling overtime in Pharmacy - 2017 - $13,000, 2018 - $1,500, 2019 - $200. In 2 years he saved $24,300! 4> Revenue expansion - 2017: $4.3 mil 2018: $4.9 mil 2019: $5.3 mil. Journey!”
Congratulations Scott! Thank you for your outstanding leadership.
Congratulations to Chris Bleck, Human Resources who was also nominated for this award.2nd Quarter 2020 Recipients
Outstanding Team Partnership Award
Community Treatment, ACT Team
Congratulations to the Community Treatment ACT Team, recipient of NCHC’s
Outstanding Team Partnership Award. The ACT team meets daily and goes
above and beyond each day to ensure that they meet the daily needs of
our most intensive Community Treatment clients and that they remain safe
in the community. The ACT Team works daily with nearly all departments
throughout NCHC and have developed strong partnerships within our community
and at NCHC.
“Regardless of illness, personal/medical leave, vacations or scheduling conflicts, the team is able to meet the needs of our consumers our clients do not have the supports of healthy friends and family or are too ill to accept support. It never fails to impress me that regardless of overwhelming barriers faced by our clients, as a team, the ACT Team all pitch in and cover the needs of our clients.” "After 15 years of case management in multiple different counties, I have never experienced the teamwork and client impact that the ACT team provides daily.”
Outstanding Service Excellence Award
Carrie Salyers, HIM
Congratulations to Carrie Salyers, recipient of the NCHC’s Outstanding Service Excellence Award. Carrie was nominated by staff from a different department that recognized her commitment to teamwork and quality. Carrie has been working on a project that not only helps physicians and staff with coding, making their day to day work easier, its helps NCHC get reimbursed correctly and patients billed correctly. She is concerned not just for the work in her program, but how it impacts others ability and accuracy to do their own.
“Carrie has worked to make this tool comprehensive, practical and scalable for growth in the future. She communicates well with those she meets with, trying to find the right solution to making coding easier for those who use it and for those who are not experts in the field. It's been a pleasure to work with her and have her on the NCHC team!”
Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award
June Ross, Residential
Congratulations to June Ross of Residential Services, recipient of the NCHC’s Outstanding Person-Centered Service Award. Nominated by a member of her team who feels June exceeds her expectations every day.
“Even with children at home and another job, she is always flexible with her schedule and picks up many open shifts. She works with integrity and I can always count on her to make positive choices in the best interest of our clients. She treats everyone is if they are a part of her extended family and everyone looks forward to work- ing with her. June inspires me to bring 110% of myself to work and not only that, but to do it with a smile and sincere joy in my heart. Without dedicated staff like June, our group homes would not be able to run like they do. She is truly an essential part of our team and I’m so proud to have her.”
Outstanding Leadership Award
Cherie Mattson, Housekeeping
The Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes a director, manager or supervisor
who inspires, influences and conducts themselves in a profes- sional manner,
acting as a role model for others to follow in the workplace and our community.
Congratulations to Cherie Mattson of Housekeeping. Cherie was nominated
twice this quarter by staff in different programs. Staff are inspired
by her authentic and humble leadership.
“The first thing I learned about Cherie was how deep her relationships go with her employees. She knows their stories and listens to their ups and downs. She takes time to explain new things, new training and new events that her employees need to know about. She is always there without a complaint or hesitation to help cover an employee who needs it. Cherie has taught me a lot about leadership. Its doesn’t have to be loud or attention getting or really anything fancy – just authentic and consistent.”