East Washingtonian - Your Hometown News Source

Garfield County Hospital District is proud to announce February's Employee of the Month, Nancy Starkweather, Dietary. She was nominated by her co-workers who say, "She has been a reliable employee for 30 plus years."

Nancy was born and raised in Pomeroy and graduated from PHS in 1979. At age 15 she began working as a nurse's aide under Ruby Porter, Director of Nursing. This position was equivalent to a CNA, by today's standards, only there were no classes or certification available at that time. "You just jumped in and the nurses showed you what to do," said Nancy. She continued in this position for about seven years, then left for a time to raise her two children.

She once again became employed with the hospital, on July 1, 1993, this time as cook in the Dietary Department. She has always been fond of baking and preparing food so being offered this position was an easy decision. When asked what she likes best about her job, she said, "I like cooking and I enjoy the residents."

Over the years, she has seen several administrations come and go and was asked to join the management team several years ago after the retirement of a kitchen manager, but respectfully declined. "I just prefer to do my job but I do not mind helping out wherever I can," said Nancy.

In the 26 years of working in the Dietary Department, Nancy has become a vital and essential employee. Her vast knowledge of preparing hospital food over the years has made her a very versatile employee. Knowing how to place weekly orders from Cisco, plan and schedule the monthly menus, and preparing custom meals, if needed, has made her a great asset. She also works well with nursing to make sure that the patients get good hot meals on time.

Nancy has been cross-trained for all shifts and she has helped train many new Dietary employees throughout the years. She enjoys interacting with her co-workers and sharing her expertise. "She is always kind and polite when addressing the patients and staff," said her co-workers.

In the 33 years of her career at the hospital, the staff have long recognized Nancy as having a warm and caring attitude for the patients she serves, as well as her daily commitment and hard work ethic.

"Nancy is one of those employees that no team ever wants to retire," Jodi Peasley, Dietary/EVS Manger. "She is always happy to help, to jump in at a moment's notice wherever and whenever needed. She truly cares about her work, her food, and the people she works with," said Peasley. "She is an adaptable and valuable team player and she loves the patients. No one could ask for a better employee than Nancy," exclaims Peasley!

Nancy, you are appreciated for all your devotion to GCHD and for being a highly valued employee.