USA Health recognizes you: May 13
USA Health regularly recognizes employees for going above and beyond in providing high quality care and customer service.
Two awarded Jo Bonner Award for Nursing Excellence
Two nurses at University Hospital recently were presented with the Jo Bonner Award for Nursing Excellence for upholding the high standards set forth by USA Health.
Angela McRoy, RN, a nurse in the fifth-floor medical surgical unit, has established herself as a compassionate, dedicated and skilled caregiver in the two years since she became a nurse. Her nominators said she has stepped into the role of charge nurse in the past six months, providing leadership and support to her team with the same care and confidence she brings to her patients.
Outside of work, McRoy enjoys spending time with her husband and children. One of her greatest joys is supporting her daughter in pageant competitions.
Arlenny Sanchez, RN, a nurse in the sixth-floor medical surgical unit, began her nursing career in 2021 and has worked as a charge nurse for two years. Staff members describe her as a great patient advocate, always going the extra mile to make sure patients understand their plan of care and receive anything they need.
In her spare time, Sanchez loves to hang out with friends and loved ones. She is always up for a great adventure.
Valentz receives DAISY Award
Brooke Valentz, RN, a nurse navigator at the Mitchell Cancer Institute, was honored with a DAISY Award for nurses.
Valentz provides phenomenal care coordination for patients with genitourinary malignancies. Valentz consistently picks up patients in trenches due to poor socio-economic profile and debility from cancer and guides them through the complex journey of cancer care. This includes multiple visits with oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists as well as scans, chemotherapy and compliance with complicated treatment plans.
Great Catch winners recognized at University Hospital
University Hospital recently recognized these employees with Great Catch awards:
- Presleigh Myers, CT technician
- Julia Biggs, patient care assistant, surgery
- Julia Goudeau, PharmD, pharmacist
- Destiny Burley, RN, nurse in trauma department
- Ashley Hawthrone, PharmD, pharmacist in surgical trauma ICU
- Harleigh Hudson, medical assistant, emergency department
- Niya Walter, patient care assistant, sixth floor
- Ashley Patterson, radiology technician
- Timothy McGhee, RN, nurse in GI department
- Kate Dorsten, PharmD, pharmacist
- Emily White, RN, nurse
Williams recognizedwith Mitchell College of Business Award
Annie Williams, RN, a nurse on the fifth floor at University Hospital, recently received the Semoon and Youngshin Chang Endowed Award for Humanitarian Services. She was recognized for her 44-year commitment to nursing and her commitment as a Prichard City Council member. Williams is also working to restore and revive the Mitchell Public Library located 5 miles from the USA campus.
Hannon named employee of the month for Internal Medicine
Samantha Hannon, a medical assistant in the Mastin Internal Medicine Specialty Clinic, has been named the Department of Internal Medicine’s April 2025 Employee of the Month. Four nominations this month recognized her for her consistent kindness, positive attitude, and willingness to always help others.
One described Hannon as “the sweetest person I have ever worked with and always willing to help.” She called the honor “heartwarming.” “To hear the kind words that my co-workers said about me was so unexpected, and it truly brightened my day.” Hannon said. “Caring for others inspired me to go into healthcare.” She has aspirations to further her education and one day become a nurse.
MCI presents Scott with BEE Award
Jerica Scott, a medical assistant on the hematology oncology team at MCI, was presented the BEE Award for 2025’s first quarter.
Comments shared about Scott that resulted in her selection as MCI’s BEE Award winner were:
“Jerica is such a positive person, she brings brightness and cheer to everyone she sees. She has compassion and a big heart and is always willing to help when she sees a need.”
“Jerica is a friendly worker. Always willing and always has a smile on her face.”
“Jerica is always extremely kind and cheerful. It's not always a joyful experience to be visiting the oncologist but she's always there with a ‘Good Morning’ and that beautiful smile. Thank you, Jerica, for always letting your light shine at MCI!”
MCI Employee of the Month
MCI celebrates Amir Kasim, a part of the IT support team, as April's Employee of the Month. Kasim’s coworkers praise him for being kind, courteous and respectful, and enjoy working with him.
“Working alongside Amir is not only enjoyable but also makes coming to work something to look forward to every day.”
“Amir is friendly and approachable when interacting with our staff. He has a natural way of making others feel at ease when assisting. He follows back up afterwards to ensure that everything is working properly.”
“Amir goes above and beyond to keep us functioning, so we can care for our patients. You don't have to wait around for long periods of time to get your job done because Amir will not hesitate to come to your rescue. And he does it all with a pleasant smile and a great attitude. We are so lucky to have him as part of our IT Team.”
Would you like to suggest a co-worker for recognition? Submit your nomination online using the Employee Recognition Nomination form.
