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Penn State Health announces Positive Impact Award winners

Penn State Health’s new employee recognition program, the Penn State Health Positive Impact Award, received a total of 830 nominations. A selection committee chose four winners:

  • Mackenzie DeLawter, a registered nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
  • Joan Hartman, a senior MRI technologist at Hershey Medical Center
  • Manuel Isherwood, an inpatient pharmacist supporting the Epic Willow system, Shared Services
  • Michele Spencer, a clinical coordinator for the Solid Tumor Program at Penn State Cancer Institute

These employees were recognized by their peers because they inspire, motive and promote a positive work culture, fostering high employee morale and leading by example.

Read what their colleagues had to say about the winners:

Mackenzie DeLawter is an exceptionally supportive and uplifting coworker whose positivity transforms even the most challenging shifts. She regularly leaves thoughtful notes of encouragement for colleagues across roles, making everyone—from nurses to support staff—feel valued and appreciated. As a teacher, she is patient and dedicated, going above and beyond to ensure new staff feel confident and supported. Mackenzie also shows extraordinary compassion toward patients and families, personalizing care by acknowledging cultural holidays and ensuring families feel informed and comforted. Her kindness, dedication and consistent encouragement make her a deeply impactful presence at Penn State Health.

Joan Hartman is an exceptional supervisor who consistently exemplifies RITE values—Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence. She supports her team by working late to assist staff, giving ample notice for schedule changes, helping with daily tasks and sending personal thank-you notes. Joan demonstrates integrity through honesty, strong morals, and never cutting corners. Her teamwork is outstanding, frequently covering extra shifts and mentoring new employees. Always upbeat and encouraging, Joan creates a positive work environment and shows genuine care for her staff. Her dedication, professionalism and tireless work ethic make her an invaluable leader and role model.

Manny Isherwood is a standout colleague and mentor who provides unwavering commitment by fostering a positive and supportive work environment. Over the past year, he has made a profound impact on the Pharmacy Department through his dedication to creating an inclusive, communicative and empowering work environment. He led with resilience during staffing shortages, prioritized team morale and provided mentorship that helped struggling colleagues grow professionally. Notably, he rebuilt a key medication education initiative, ensuring long-term benefits for both staff and patients. Manny’s empathy, professionalism and solution-focused mindset consistently uplift those around him. Even after transitioning to a new role, his influence on team culture remains strong, making him a deserving nominee for the Positive Impact Award.

Michele Spencer is an exceptional outpatient oncology nurse specializing in head and neck cancer, known for her continuous dedication, compassion and professionalism. She excels at coordinating complex, multidisciplinary care while prioritizing patient comfort and emotional well-being. Michele consistently goes above and beyond—staying late to address patient concerns, supporting families, mentoring new staff and creating educational resources like a patient information booklet. She is also deeply involved in community outreach, including cancer awareness initiatives and fundraising events. Her selflessness, empathy and tireless advocacy make her an invaluable member of the oncology team and a trusted source of support for patients and colleagues alike.

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