More than 200 employees honored for service, dedication to Penn State Health St. Joseph
More than half a century is a long time to stay in one job, but for Cathy Thomas, administrative supervisor on the 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shift at Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center, the years have been her teacher.
“St. Joe’s provided me the opportunities I need to do different things and advance in my career without having to go anywhere else,” said Thomas, a registered nurse who was honored for 55 years of service at the Penn State Health St. Joseph Service Award Dinner on May 20 at Stokesay Castle in Reading.
Thomas graduated from St. Joseph School of Nursing in 1963 and began working at the hospital as an emergency room nurse. She held various positions, including nurse manager of the critical care unit and associate nurse executive, before taking her current position.
“I had good mentors who guided me, and I attribute the fact that I still enjoy my profession to them,” she said. “To me, St. Joe’s has become like a second family.”
Thomas said she has no intention of retiring anytime soon. “It keeps me moving, and it keeps my mind active,” she said.
John Morahan, president of Penn State Health St. Joseph, thanked the employees for all they do for the health system. “A special recognition to our 215 employees whose years of service we are honoring,” he said. “I, along with the board, senior leadership and management, appreciate your gifts and talents in advancing Penn State Health St. Joe’s.”
View Service Award Dinner Program
Forty-five-year employees included:
Denise Jurasinkski
Billing representative
Berks Medical Equipment and Supply
Diane Matthew
Vascular technologist
Peripheral Vascular Laboratory
Five-year employees received a cup to thank them for their service. Those employed 10 years to 55 years received points for PAWS UP!, the Penn State Health employee recognition program, which they can use to select a gift of their choice.
Twenty-nine retirees were also recognized and received a certificate to select a gift from Lasting Image.
If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email the Penn State College of Medicine web department.