Past Honorees

Elizabeth Hollandberry, MD
Jeffery Crenshaw, RN
Mayank Sharma, RN
Famata Longstreth, RN
Samira Adaan, RN
Monica Laus, RN
Maritess Rayrao, LVN
Detention Health
For responding to a medical emergency involving an employee at the Martinez Detention Facility and administering aid immediately. For showing great leadership, determination, and poise during this critical incident. For saving a life!
-Nominated by Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office

Araceli Aparicio 
Medical Social Worker II 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being a wonderful person and a hard worker on the Medical Social Worker team. For being independent, capable, and always willing to lend a helping hand to her coworkers when we need her.  
-Nominated by Sally Reader 

Jena Atencion 
Clerk-Experienced Level 
Behavioral Health 
For offering timely support to the clerical team when assistance is needed. For being a great communicator (verbally and written) and ensuring that no client is overlooked. For being an asset with her attention to detail and willingness to learn and contribute to the clerical team. 
-Nominated by Kim Huynh 
 
Nicole Brito 
Director, Clinic Services 
Public Health 
For going above and beyond to ensure a patient with significant barriers to care was able to be seen in their pediatric clinic. For helping the patient move forward in their process to enter a specialized school. For being a true advocate for the community. 
-Nominated by Shanda Young 

Calvin Calangan, CNA 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being an excellent example of hard work and dedication. For being a valuable team member whose positivity and commitment is appreciated and does not go unnoticed. 
-Nominated by 4A and 4B Units 

Deepak Chopra 
Institutional Services Worker-Lead 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being thorough and meticulous when carrying out his rounds as supervisor, attending to our issues and concerns without questioning why. For being dedicated, friendly, respectful, professional and, most importantly, hardworking. For quietly playing a big role in assisting our nurses and ensuring patient satisfaction with our environment. For being a good and responsible lead, always willing to help, and always making us happy to see him in our unit. 
-Nominated by Daniel Ani and George Flores 

Jessica Collado 
Environmental Health Specialist II 
Environmental Health 
For her extra time, effort and good will, in the office and in the field supporting our clients. For being extremely dedicated to our clients and colleagues alike. 
-Nominated by Alma Cruz-Gomez 

Irma “Jackie” Contreras 
Clerk-Specialist Level 
Public Health 
For continuously showing up with grace, patience, organization and grit during the entirety of our Epic launch for the medical therapy units for California Children’s Services. For working tirelessly with a multitude of people to organize flowsheets, create charts, run meetings and attend to all our staff’s questions in a timely manner. For traveling between locations, splitting her days to ensure everyone got the support and help they needed, making our transition successful. For translating with our Spanish speaking clients in a way that made them feel comfortable and heard. For doing all this with a smile and laughter.  
-Nominated by Michelle Brandt 

Arash Darian 
Mental Health Clinical Specialist 
Behavioral Health 
For always going above and beyond to support his team and other staff in the clinic. For consistently going the extra mile to ensure that tasks are completed to perfection. For demonstrating great compassion and dedication towards patients, particularly when they face complications in access to care. 
-Nominated by Hala Fattah 

Andre Doucette 
Information Systems Technician II 
Information Technology 
For his customer service, experience and exemplary abilities to fix my computer problems. For displaying a calm demeanor and walking me through the new means of logging in to VPN, gaining me access to get back to work while working from home. For continuing to be respectful, reassuring and professional during the several times over the years he has assisted me.  
-Nominated by Kathleen Cyr 

Andy Gaeth 
Storeroom Clerk 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being a wonderful coworker that the staff on CCRMC 5D Unit (surgery) relies on. For the comfort in knowing that during times of stressful situations when we need immediate supplies, he will find the items we are asking for and deliver them right away. For helping us prevent delays in patient care. 
-Nominated by Danielle Lopez 

Steven Garcia 
Occupational Therapist II 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For going above and beyond the call of duty responding to an employee’s immediate need to have their workstation adjusted. For listening very carefully to understand their issues and engaging them in a brainstorming session with possible options and then following through . For enabling employee to return to work with a fully functional, ergo designed workstation that decreased back strain and increased their productivity.  
-Nominated by Soo Han 

Karen Glaspie 
Health Conductor 
Public Health 
For always being willing to help our patients whenever we ask. For sharing in the care of our patients, responding quickly and efficiently, we are greatly appreciative. 
-Nominated by Sally Reader 

Candice Gray 
Program Specialist II 
Public Health 
For stepping into her role as Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health coordinator for Family, Maternal and Child Health programs and immediately getting to work learning processes, brainstorming new solutions, and assisting wherever there is a need. For making herself available to her employees and staff, modeling a great work ethic through her respect of team members, as well as her consistent drive to complete any necessary tasks, solve problems and assist with program projects. For having a positive attitude and encouraging a unified team effort and for all she does to make our programs better. 
-Nominated by Chrystie Sargent 

Leti Gutierrez 
Ambulatory Care Clinic Coordinator 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For helping our dental department improve our workflow and upgrade our equipment so we can provide excellent care. For successfully creating a standardized workflow for ordering supplies and recording in a shared drive for all three dental clinics. For ordering equipment upgrades for all locations.  
-Nominated by Olegario Jauregui 

Amma Hayes 
Mental Health Clinical Specialist-Team Lead 
Behavioral Health 
For being exceptional as the evidence-based practice lead at Central County’s Children’s Behavioral Health Clinic. For changing the lives of children with her professionalism, kindness, unconditional support and empathy. For providing guidance, kind words and encouragement throughout the trauma service process. For all the time and patience she has shown us throughout our family’s journey of getting better and feeling better, we thank her. 
-Nominated by a Client 

Dana Hayter 
Certified Nursing Assistant 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For consistently delivering the best care to our patients. For always being empathetic, understanding, respectful, and communicating with dignity when working with patients.  For being a true gem, going above and beyond in her work. 
-Nominated by Maria Panaligan 

Kim Huynh 
Clerk-Specialist Level 
Behavioral Health 
For shining in her role, not just by skillfully managing administrative intricacies but also displaying a finesse for making patients feel comfortable and at ease within the clinic. For her knack in problem-solving to ensure smooth clinic operations, all while prioritizing the well-being of both patients and staff. For her dedication to exemplary service and safety truly marking her a pillar of support and efficiency.  
-Nominated by Hala Fattah 

Virginia Jule-Frost 
Mental Health Clinical Specialist 
Behavioral Health 
For spearheading two teen groups (a process group and a social skills group) at the children’s Behavioral Health clinic in Concord in addition to co-facilitating the  multi-family skills group. For passionately energizing fellow staff members to refer their clients to the groups. For going the extra mile in her outreach, coordination, planning and energy used to execute this effort.  
-Nominated by Betsy Hanna 

Norma Martinez 
Medical Social Worker II 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being an excellent worker and friend for 25 years. For going the extra mile for patients and staff; her work is her vocation. For caring about people, lifting their spirits and lighting up the lives of those who are suffering. 
-Nominated by Sue Meltzer 

Lucia Melano 
Mental Health Clinical Specialist 
Behavioral Health 
For going above and beyond to meet her clients’ needs with compassion and commitment. For caring about the best outcome for her clients, who showed improvement after only a short time working with her. For being an extraordinary mental health worker and an asset to this county.  
-Nominated by Ricardo Torres 

Chelsea Miklos 
Speech Pathologist 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For going above and beyond by educating and advocating for the safety of the patients we serve. For her dedication as a speech language athologist and expanding services to help patients with dysphagia concerns. For being a great team member and asset to our department. 
-Nominated by Jaclyn Tsang 

Kareem Mohsen 
Environmental Health Specialist II 
Environmental Health 
For her extra time, effort and good will, in the office and in the field, in supporting our clients with their needs. For being extremely dedicated to our clients and colleagues alike. 
-Nominated by Alma Cruz-Gomez 

Allison Mongelli 
Account Clerk-Advanced Level 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center 
For going above and beyond, reaching out to assist a coworker when their workload became overwhelming. For providing guidance and advice allowing them to feel less inundated. For being positive and encouraging, working with them and helping them come up with a plan they could follow to get through everything and stay focused. 
-Nominated by a Coworker 

Vanessa Najar-Ramirez 
Community Health Worker II 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being one of the heartbeats of the Medical Social Services team. For doing so many things behind the scenes, besides serving patients, that often go unnoticed: triaging referrals, supporting clinics and staff, improving processes, and many more. For the support she gives our patients and staff, we thank her. 
-Nominated by Sally Reader 

Angela Pantera 
Clerk-Senior Level 
Environmental Health 
For being extremely helpful, kind, courteous in answering a customer’s questions and following through by getting back to them in a timely way.  For the service excellence given to a brand-new, non-profit organization. 
-Nominated by a Customer 

Olga Pena 
Health Conductor 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being a fierce advocate for increasing access to medical care for vulnerable patients and for not being afraid to reach out for help when it counts. 
-Nominated by Sally Reader 

Pittsburg Health Center 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For more than 40 years of exceptional care that I have always received from Contra Costa Health (I enrolled when I was 19). For quickly discovering I had bladder cancer and scheduling a prompt surgery to have the tumor removed. For the care team at the Pittsburg Health Clinic who went above and beyond to make sure I received anti-malaria medication before my trip to Africa, where I have a non-profit organization, ensuring I have a safe trip. For the service Contra Costa Health has consistently provided, standing out as world class, especially when exceptional service is hard to find. For the people who make up the staff who are responsible for the quality care that has given me 60 years of good health. For the genuine human compassion and willingness to do that little extra that gives us patients quality care. 
-Nominated by a Client 

Regan Riewerts, PHN 
Public Health 
For always being ready to assist the foster team and our foster youth. For never turning down a challenge and being absolutely flexible on tasks that need to be done. For working in the community with foster clients who are grateful for her input and acceptance, and for navigating the healthcare system for this underserved population. For being a shining, smiling presence in the office, always available and ready to go.  
-Nominated by Susanne Polos 

Terry Santos 
Health Services Timekeeping Technician 
Payroll 
For stepping up every day for the past two years to assist coworkers with new tasks. For his knowledge and willingness to help at every juncture of our intricate work in Payroll. For his smile and for making our workdays great. 
-Nominated by Anonymous 

Manolito Sebiano 
Institutional Services Aide 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For arriving to our unit supplied with the necessary equipment needed for the role. For answering pages quickly and completing jobs efficiently and safely. For being a hard worker, keeping our unit clean and exhibiting integrity and friendly demeanor. 
-Nominated by Tonie Tenorio-Lytle 

Vanessa Segovia, PHN 
Public Health 
Socorro Padilla 
Community Health Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For going above and beyond to educate, in-person (on very short notice and the day before Christmas weekend) residents in a Richmond neighborhood about possible contamination due to a former dry-cleaning business. For sharing important health information, addressing community concerns and building community trust. For being employees who are committed to addressing health equity and environmental justice-Nominated by Erika Jenssen 

Gurpreet Singh 
Institutional Services Aide 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For always going above and beyond to ensure our patient rooms are clean and up to the standards CCRMC requires. For continually thinking one step ahead for the hospital. For willingly assisting staff, always with a smile.  
-Nominated by Anthony Vizcarra 

Lachman Singh 
Institutional Services Worker-Generalist 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For being a hard worker, always willing to help and go the extra mile. For providing immaculate cleanliness of the unit and breakrooms. For continuing to give 5-star service; it’s obvious when he’s been working in our unit because of the level of cleanliness and our well-stocked supplies! 
-Nominated by Tonie Tenorio-Lytle 

Tom Ta 
Health Services Administrator-Level C 
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
For going above and beyond with quick responses and edits for a project. For being kind, thorough and proactive with a last-minute request. 
-Nominated by Chelsea Miklos 

Kimberly Thai 
Health Services System Analyst III 
Health, Housing and Homeless Services 
For responding with compassion, grace and understanding even under stressful circumstances. For being solution-oriented and always ready to lend a helping hand to her staff and colleagues. For creating a data warehouse that allows us to picture how consumers gain access or enter our homeless system enabling us to see where services begin and where they end. For being a great leader and a dedicated employee to Contra Costa County. 
-Nominated by Tammy Stoicich 

Marian Wai, PHN 
Public Health 
For going above and beyond being very supportive and attentive for her patient and the patient’s family member. For handling every call and question promptly, guiding them through every step of the way.  For being kind, patient and generous of spirit. For being a stellar human being! 
-Nominated by a Client 

Lonni Watkins 
Senior Health Education Specialist 
Public Health 
For showing tremendous leadership in her role as a senior health education specialist in the Black Infant Health Program. For her outreach efforts promoting the Black Infant Health Program and bringing awareness to healthcare providers and community agencies about the health disparities and inequities that plague African American birthing people while establishing relationships to connect these clients to prenatal and mental health services and other community resources.  
-Nominated by Cynthia Holland 

Lonni Watkins 
Senior Health Education Specialist 
Public Health 
For always going above and beyond to find whatever I’m in need of at the time. For her bubbly energy and attitude that stays the same every time I see her. For remaining professional and positive whenever I see her. 
-Nominated by a Client 

Nichole Boisvert, MD 
Erik Gonzalez, MD 
Ken Corbin, RN 
Janice Billingsley, LVN 
Sue Meltzer, Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers 
Zachariah Todd 
Substance Use Program Supervisor 
Behavioral Health 
For going above and beyond by connecting as a great team and working at the last-minute assisting and providing excellent patient care. 
-Nominated by V. Linder 

2023

Sherry Alcazar
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For constantly going above and beyond as our Rapid Access clinician to fit in several intakes in a timely manner. For being supportive to the entire staff and for staying on top of training new staff with Adult Needs and Strengths Assessment (ANSA). For being a team player.

• Nominated by Terry Ahad

Deepak Chopra
Institutional Services Worker-Lead
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For anticipating the unit's needs and immediately working on issues that concern his team. For being a well-respected, organized and excellent leader.

• Nominated by Maria Panaligan

Sylvia Fonseca, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond in assisting me on Epic to find the best care for our patients. For being a wonderful doctor, always demonstrating service excellence.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Amber Giles
Mental Health Program Manager
Behavioral Health
For going above and beyond in her role, always making herself readily available to clients and the entire Access team for consults, debriefing, and check-ins. For putting in every effort to ensure the team runs smoothly, especially during the recent tough times of being understaffed. For being an exceptional supervisor/manager and an honor to work with.

• Nominated by Lauren Sadler

Nicole Hickey, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a gem in her ability to treat respiratory illness. For the way she listens, informs, suggests and stays with her patients to ensure they get the best care.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Shana Johnson
Substance Abuse Program Manager
Behavioral Health
For going the extra TWO miles! For her management of Discovery House and the tremendous changes and modifications that benefit client services as well as staff morale. For "herding cats" every day with grace, respect and enthusiasm. For exuding cultural competence and attention to best practices, For being assertive, open, supportive and available. For making a huge difference in our Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment through our Alcohol and Other Drugs Services (AODS) program.

• Nominated by Heather Brostrand

Daniel Lee, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a prime example of service excellence, doing everything he can for his patients' care.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Jackie Lewis
Secretary-Advanced Level
Behavioral Health
For being an invaluable source of information for the Behavioral Health division for many years. For providing helpful responses to all questions regarding policies and who to go to and what to do allowing us to provide high quality Behavioral Health services to the residents of Contra Costa County. For being a true "guru of knowledge," keeping the "train on the tracks," and always responding to questions in a kind, professional manner.

• Nominated by Camille Nolan

Erik Mann
Information Systems Technician Level II
Information Technology
For consistently providing excellent customer service. For taking into consideration the type of work that the person he's assisting does and ensuring they have what they need to properly serve the public. For his gentle demeanor that makes him approachable, knowing he'll never turn you away if you have "just one more" question.

• Nominated by Laura Mendoza

Bertha Mena
Clerk-Specialist Level
Public Health
For going the extra mile to assist an elderly client, who was distraught and confused, navigate their way to our office via public transportation. For going above and beyond by meeting the client where the bus route let them out (a mile away) and assisting them in the field.

• Nominated by Jami Daviner

Rodel Miyamoto
Institutional Services Aide
Environmental Health
For proving time and again that he is reliable. For his positive attitude that resonates whenever we see him in our unit. For being able to rest assured that when called for help he will do it willingly, in a timely manner, and with a smile on his face.

• Nominated by Maria Panaligan and the Surgical Unit

Brianna Plaza, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to help me feel comfortable and to clearly communicate with me what was going on while I was in the throes of a mental breakdown and being involuntarily held for observation. For making me feel cared for, listed to and respected (as I am someone who is usually a well put-together Veteran and Healthcare professional).

• Nominated by a Client

Alan Siegel, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his outstanding and kind service excellence. For being there when needed in a pinch, assisting staff as well as the social workers to better serve our patients and community.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Najibi Skender, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a wonderful person and doctor, providing service excellence. For caring a great deal for his patients and coworkers.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Sergiyenko Yevgeniy, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always being professional and caring. For being a bright star in West County.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez

Facilities Maintenance
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going the extra mile to assist the Inpatient Psych unit with our numerous requests. For being true to the statement, "Day or Night our Maintenance People are always there for us."

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Joan Aubin, PHN
Public Health
For being an amazing nurse advocate and protective force acting on behalf of those who can’t. For always being responsive and available when I had questions or needed direction. For going the extra mile, never accepting the status quo, and pushing through until a matter was resolved. For her attention to detail, diligence, kindness and support.

• Nominated by a Client

Jennifer Casagranda
Psychiatric Technician
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For single handedly keeping the psych units on their toes when it comes to following policy and procedure especially concerning Infection Control. For going the extra mile when given a task and going above and beyond to complete it.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Kathleen Cyr
Contracts and Grants Specialist II
Finance
For working with me for over a year in amending, starting and renewing some challenging contracts. For her patience when walking me through the process and for being proactive in trying to get these contracts executed, resulting in better service to our patients. For going the extra mile to assist me with all my questions, providing clarification and guidance.

• Nominated by Nati Flores

Alina Faramazyan, MD
Behavioral Health
For going above and beyond to provide very thorough and in-depth training for all the MDs and Nurse Practitioners at Central Adult Mental Health, ensuring that all their needs are addressed.

• Nominated by Amarpreet Gill and Terry Ahad

Victor Guzman-Neyra
Clerk-Experienced Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers For going the extra mile to update staffing software (API) for Nursing Schedulers, saving many hours of work.

• Nominated by Sally Barnett

Paul Juranovich
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For going above and beyond when helping clients on the Access line by ensuring they get connected to services, while also being supportive and providing consults to the team. For listening to and validating clients, offering encouragement to motivate them to connect to services.

• Nominated by Emilio Perdomo

Henri Keeling, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile with patience and respect when assisting with our most difficult patients. For working his magic to ensure that everyone is safe.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Erika Mendoza
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to train me in staffing at the Pittsburg Health Center all while maintaining a very heavy workload. For going the extra mile to provide internal customer service.

• Nominated by April Phillips

Tsige Metagesha, RN
Ambulatory Care Clinic Supervisor
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For rising to meet the needs and elevate the standard of care for pediatric patients throughout all clinic sites in the county. For being our champion for Pediatric QIP measures, finding new ways to meet the needs of our patients, even going the extra mile by finding the best models for our patient education flyers. For always being willing to pilot new pediatric workflows or projects at Miller Wellness Center including autism referral processing, POC lead testing, exploring the possibility of providing Synagis, providing patient outreach, and obtaining state newborn screening results. For collaborating with other health centers to ensure her nurses are trained and up to speed on the best way to do things. For holding herself to the highest possible standard of care and asking her team to elevate their own expectations to offer the best possible care for all their patients. For being willing to try something new if it means providing better or safer care. For our gratitude to have Tsige as a partner in our improvement efforts.

• Nominated by Deirdre Burns and the Ambulatory Pediatric Unit

Rodel Miyamoto
Institutional Services Aide
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his immaculate cleaning skills. For giving his best in everything he does, willingly taking on extra tasks and always with a smile.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Nathalie Sterne
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health
For her willingness to test new workflows and provide thoughtful, patient-centered feedback to support improvement. For consistently delivering high quality services and demonstrating a tireless commitment to caring for the unhoused. For being a dependable presence who never shies away from answering questions, sharing her experience, and offering support.

• Nominated by Alison Stribling

Thomas Tighe
Mental Health Program Chief
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to fill vacant positions to alleviate staff burn-out from increased workloads relating to staffing insufficiencies. For being proactive in asking staff what they need to perform their jobs more efficiently and effectively, presenting resolutions to problems, and keeping staff informed of the progress towards those resolutions.

• Nominated by Lori Belhumeur

Mariano Vasquez
Social Worker
Public Health
For his prompt action in obtaining additional care-provider hours for a client who recently had surgery. For taking the time with a follow-up call to me on the same day of his visit and providing updated information. For sharing knowledgeable information with the client so they can obtain more hours if needed. For his wonderful support to my client and myself.

• Nominated by Noelia Gomez Gonzalez

Araceli Aparicio
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing excellent social care to patients. For going the extra mile and taking on a new project and doing an amazing job to increase access to food.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Grace Binsol, RN
Lucille Figueroa, RN
Christopher Naca, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For taking turns filling in as the Antioch Health Centers' Daytime Charge Nurse throughout the year. For their hard work, always keeping things running smoothly, and willingness to step into this challenging role when coverage is needed.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Eve Cominos, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a very passionate and helpful doctor, always going above and beyond for her patients.

• Nominated by Pavneet Pawar

Initha Elangavon, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being one of the most caring, calmest, and skillful doctors in the ICU, an environment where the combination of these skills is most useful. For going the extra mile by staying longer than her time to ensure that patients have stabilized before leaving. For finding the time, no matter how busy she is to answer staff questions and address any of their concerns regarding their patients. For being approachable and open to suggestions.

• Nominated by Jane Luna

Walter Govaer, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to graciously provide transportation from a SNF to home for a patient who's previously arranged transport had fallen through.

• Nominated by Charlis Salazar

Noelia Gutierrez
Health Services Administrator-Level C
Office of the Director
For going the extra mile to assist me, which significantly increased her workload. For quickly and efficiently entering 14 grant contracts, supporting me in setting up 15 new contract staff, helping me get an item on the Board of Supervisors agenda, and helping with a new contract with a staffing vendor for a program starting in July. For always being positive and willing to help me learn and better understand how different processes work in the county. For her invaluable support and guidance.

• Nominated by Ernesto Delatorre

Takeya Foster
Clerk-Experienced Level
Environmental Health
For being a Lead who goes above and beyond taking care of customers and coworkers. For being a problem solver and extremely customer oriented.

• Nominated by Alma Cruz-Foster

Keyona Foster
Clerk-Experienced Level
Environmental Health
For going above and beyond to take care of customers. For being a problem solver and extremely customer-oriented, with excellent listening skills and soft skills. For being reliable, ready to learn, and always on time even though she travels from Sacramento.

• Nominated by Alma Cruz-Gomez

Christina Frandsen
Information Systems Technician II
Information Technology
For going the extra mile to assist me with my VPN, taking the time to understand the root cause of the problem and finding a solution. For going above and beyond by following up on the issue to ensure that it was resolved.

• Nominated by Alvin Silva

Judy Gonzalez, RN
Nursing Program Manager
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist Certified Nursing Assistants with their concerns.

• Nominated by Evelyn Amoah

Anna Keeffe
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For the time, effort and care she extends to support clients and families in the office and in the field. For consistently showing up to support clients and families in times of crisis. For the excellent guidance she provides to our First Hope team as UR team lead.

• Nominated by Jennifer Miles, Jude Leung, Ken Underwood

Shannon Ladner-Beasley
Health Equity Program Manager
Office of the Director
For going the extra mile daily as Contra Costa Health's Equity Manager. For overseeing several programs including, but not limited to, Health Career Pathways, Ambassador Programs, and organization-wide Equity initiatives for Health Services. For leading the development of young leaders that attend high school in some of the most vulnerable communities in Contra Costa County. For providing mentoring each year to youth and connecting them to leadership in our department with care and thoughtfulness. For leading by example, always going above and beyond her scope of practice. For having a deep commitment and passion for work in our community and co-leading the Historically Marginalized Communities Engagement community. For facilitating important dialogue between staff and community to ensure equitable practices and program. For always being willing to stand up for her team and voice concerns for her community.

• Nominated by Gilberto Salinas

Norma Martinez Sue Meltzer
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Center
For always taking time to nominate staff for Service Excellence awards. For being inspiring in their commitment to recognizing the hard work of others, making people feel good, and being an example to us all.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Melinda Meahan
Administrative Services Assistant III
Behavioral Health
For being instrumental in ensuring the Mental Health clinical, registration, and administrative paper forms are updated to accommodate a plethora of CalAIM and other Payment Reform changes. For her diligent work on these forms that help County and Mental Health CBO's be as prepared as possible for the July 1, 2023, go-live. For her unmatched attention to detail and organization skills and for being incredibly helpful during this very critical transition.

• Nominated by Megan Rice

Rodel Miyamoto
Institutional Services Aide
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going above and beyond. For being reliable, ready to help with any task and letting you know right away when he will be able to complete it. For his great attitude, no matter how busy he is.

• Nominated by Janice Prado

Gregory Moore, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For not being afraid to ask the hard questions to get to the heart of his patients' needs, including their emotional, psychological, and social needs. For his hard work and his thoughtfulness in bringing treats for his coworkers.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Vanessa Najar-Ramirez
Community Health Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For truly being a “Jill-of-all-trades”! For wearing several hats and covering so many different areas with grace and without complaints. For taking care of business and keeping things moving. For being a valuable member of our team.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Patricia Nevarez
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a valuable asset in the mother/baby unit. For her ability to communicate effectively with all the nurses, doctors, and healthcare staff. For being friendly, consistently finding ways to assist coworkers, and very pleasant to work with.

• Nominated by Margaret Fabro

Miriam Orantes
Health Equity Administrator
Office of the Director
For going the extra mile, every day, as Contra Costa Health's Equity Administrator. For striving to go above and beyond to meet the needs of the department as it relates to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion practices and programs both internally to our department and externally to our community. For leading the Historically Marginalized Communities Engagement team for over three years, the management of contracts and grants, and organization-wide Equity initiatives. For making history and working tirelessly with several county wide departments and Board of Supervisor staff and leading the committee that hosted the first Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander celebration in Contra Costa County. For being a hard worker who facilitates most of her work behind the scenes, always willing to support her team and the department. For her unwavering commitment to Health Services and the community at large.

• Nominated by Gilberto Salinas

Socorro Padilla
Community Health Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For working hard to serve patients and using valuable time to train others to do great work. For being patient, generous, and kind. For teaching me something new every time we speak.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Elizabeth Page, PHN
Public Health
For being instrumental in my regaining skills in my life. For providing excellent health care service whether medication or appointment management, arrangements for transportation or food delivery, and monitoring my health status. For being prompt, polite and knowledgeable, showing she cares and filling me with hope. For being an outstanding representative of your organization with her impressive attitude and actions.

• Nominated by a Client

Tiffany Robertson, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to ensure our ill babies get breastmilk when the new moms are struggling. For always being willing to lend a hand and assist, especially when she sees a coworker struggling.

• Nominated by Margaret Fabro

Mark Smith, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his dedication to his craft, often working long hours and spending extra time researching subjects to help his patients. For being a strong advocate for improvement, both at work and in the world in general.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Beverly Soriano
Certified Nursing Assistant
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For delivering exceptional service while working overtime from PM to night shift. For being on point with patient care, never showing hesitation with helping her coworkers. For her admirable attitude while working through the night. For being a gem and a blessing to our institution.

• Nominated by Maria Panaligan

Julia Surges
Health Education Specialist
Public Health
For stepping up, without hesitation, to lead the building evacuation during an emergency. For ensuring everyone was safe and making the evacuation go quickly and smooth.

• Nominated by Alvin Silva

Tommy Tighe
Mental Health Program Chief
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a wonderful man and supervisor. For getting things done in our department, providing service excellence and kindness.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez

Don Weinrich, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing quality care, service excellence and professionalism. For his service excellence while working as a team player with the Medical Social Workers, patients, staff, and community.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez

Jane Baja
Accountant III
Public Health
For her collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence. For being instrumental in helping Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) efficiently utilize its funding and achieve the program’s objectives. For her efforts that are essential to our success and have assisted us in standing out at the state level.

• Nominated by Raz Moghbel

Carlo Barlaan
Administrative Analyst
Public Health
For his outstanding contributions and dedication to the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. For his meticulous attention to detail, organizational skills, work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to excellence that has set a high standard and significantly contributed to the success of our program.

• Nominated by Raz Moghbel

Krystal Barrett
Certified Medical Assistant                                                                                              Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always having the answers when we’re in a pinch. For always going above and beyond with a beautiful attitude and professionalism.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Elizabeth Bege
Senior Disease Intervention Technician
Public Health
For taking the time out of her busy schedule to learn a new disease, multiple digital platforms, and operational workflows. For assisting us with genuine curiosity, initiative and a positive, collaborative attitude. For her attention to detail resulting in the positive outcomes she accomplished quickly, impacting staff and clients. For going above and beyond and being a critical piece to our department’s continued effort to support our community.

• Nominated by Eva Marie Bella

Brian Blaisch, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For single handedly providing outstanding care for all patients and their families in the Pediatric Behavioral Management Clinic. For providing excellent care while managing to make families feel heard and cared about. For being invaluable to our community, believing in the importance of providing services for neurodiverse families in Contra Costa County. For being a great team member and for his ongoing effort. For what he has been doing for over 20 years, his patients and staff appreciate him every day!

• Nominated by Lori Belhumeur

Anthony Contreras
Diagnostic Imaging Technician II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For showing immense kindness and compassion to his patients and for being calm and collected with a rapport that is soothing. For going the extra mile to comfort and support patients even when the situation is less than ideal.

• Nominated by Tatiana Loya Gonzalez

Michele DiMaggio
Supervising Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health
For organizing an AMAZING workshop for the Environmental Health division, “Waterborne Illness Response and Sampling Workshop”. For organizing the training for proper water collection/handling and Legionella testing for Contra Costa personnel and expanding it to a full -day workshop that was attended in-person by locals and virtually by representatives from several different counties throughout the state. For bringing in, along with Dr. Donna Ferguson, experts from CDPH, a private local water lab, and other knowledgeable consultants to discuss proper water collection for Legionella, Giardia and Crypto, covering the complex processes and timing of laboratory testing, as well as offering resources/advice of what to do in an urgent situation. For arranging with HERU to provide IT meeting support.

• Nominated by Stephanie Trammell

Veronica Fleming, PHN
Public Health
For being a champion for one of our most vulnerable patients, pursuing every avenue to get this patient the support and long-term care they needed to create a safe and sustainable living environment. For navigating the complex system and being the facilitator with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure the patient received the care they needed most. For using this care and determination with all her patients and for being a mentor to her colleagues who are beginning their work as nurse case managers. For being outstanding and always giving her best to our patients and colleagues.

• Nominated by Alexia Kapiniaris-Jimenez

Jenny Guss, MD
Behavioral Health
For the great experience of working with her. For always being present to assist her coworkers and patients with an open heart despite her busy schedule. For guiding me indefinite times in the past year without any obligation.

• Nominated by Amarpreet Gill

Bruce Heyer
Patient Financial Services Specialist
Behavioral Health
For going above and beyond to provide direct aid to Choosing Change staff and patients when they need financial counseling assistance that directly impacts access to care and treatment.

• Nominated by Phoebe Oliveira

Lisa Hyde
Clerk-Senior Level
Behavioral Health
For always being punctual and assertive in her work. For being aware of what coverage is needed and volunteering, without being asked, to assist coworkers, putting herself in the right position to help the team. For her attentiveness to detail and information enabling us to catch issues before they create a delay for clients obtaining care.

• Nominated by Kim Huynh

Vivian Masinas
Clerk-Senior Level
Behavioral Health
For her dedication to being a team player. For being a quick learner and, with just last-minute training, providing coverage and completing time sensitive referral tasks for clients as other staff members were out of the office. For offering support, at moment’s notice, for many different positions.

• Nominated by Kim Huynh

Dulce Ramos, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being our “go to” person, full of knowledge, patience and a willingness to help. For going above and beyond for the well-being and safety of our patients and staff including staying over- time so the unit does not suffer.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Gurpreet Singh
Institutional Services Aide
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being conscientious, a very hard worker, and for responding quickly, with a great attitude. For always having a good connection with everyone in the Respiratory Department.

• Nominated by Haben Kebret and Gladine Lopez

Erinn Smith, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going the extra mile. For being helpful, knowledgeable, professional and kind.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Davis Okonkwo
Senior Health Education Specialist
Public Health
For being resourceful, creative and ready to take initiative on our program’s many competing tasks. For always being of service in the field and within local communities. For being a tremendous asset to the Building Health Communities Program, remaining optimistic despite the challenges of our work.
-Nominated by Emily Warming

Nichole Osugi
Planner/Evaluator Level-A

Daniella Poy-Wing
Program Manager, Hospital Preparedness Program
Public Health
For organizing and making improvements on our workflow ensuring Public Health employees yearly flu vaccination and mask-fitting event went smoothly and efficiently.
-Nominated by Alvin Silva

Vanessa Reyes
Cardiology Technician
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center & Health Centers
For being a wonderful cardio tech! For being professional while making me feel at ease, double-checking each lead to ensure I was hooked up right, answering all my questions, explaining every step of the test, and proceeding only when I was comfortable with everything. For her amazing care for providing service excellence, I am very appreciative.
-Nominated by a client

Janitzia Rodriguez
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For always going the extra mile to provide services. For being extremely empathetic and understanding. 
-Nominated by a client

Kimberly West-Baxton
Medical Records Technician
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center & Health Centers
For always being flexible and willing to jump into other assignments and assist co-workers.
-Nominated by Elizabeth Topete 

2022

Araceli Aparicio
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For jumping into action to address the needs of Central County patients and for being proactive in making sure we deliver quality service.

• Nominated by Dennis Mallilli

Alice Echendu, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For "stepping up to the plate" and taking on the role of Captain of the Code Gray team while having a full load of patients she is responsible for. For being professional, reliable, and an asset with a wonderful attitude. For doing all she does without complaint and recognition.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna

Sam Fernandez
Clerk-Experienced Level
Public Health
For going above and beyond to assist and help her cohorts and team members in all the things that keep things flowing in Family, Maternal and Children's Health (FMCH) programs. For being all about teamwork, getting the job done and making it a positive experience.

• Nominated by Chrystie Sargent

Carmen Francois
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health
For going the extra mile for our patients. For being very professional while providing counseling and feedback, resources and spiritual excellence. For her big heart and for being an example of service excellence in everything she does. For being a West County blessing!

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Nichole Grijalva, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to assist coworkers with questions and procedures even when she is working in extremely busy and hectic clinics.

• Nominated by Gurbir Kaur

Amma Hayes, Ph.D.
Mental Health Specialist Team Lead
Behavioral Health
For providing excellent services to children and families, specializing in evidence-based practice services for children with trauma. For continuing to be professional and for making changes that impact the children for a lifetime.

• Nominated by Lynn J

Caitlyn Kell, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond in assisting the nursery during codes or sick baby admits. For always initiating an offer to help when her fellow nurses are overwhelmed. For showing professionalism and compassion to all her patients.

• Nominated by Margaret Fabro

Janel Masadas
Substance Abuse Counselor
Public Health
For going above and beyond to assist a client who was living in an environment that was detrimental to their health and that of their child. For demanding temporary housing, standing up to resistance from the housing manager, and obtaining temporary housing for the client while their home was repaired. For going the extra mile and showing true service excellence.

• Nominated by Denise Felix

Manju Mathews
Mental Health Program Manager
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For advocating for the mental health needs of impaired individuals who are incarcerated in adult detention. For being consistent and dependable in a warm, kind and compassionate way. For covering shifts on nights, weekends and holidays so her team can take breaks and spend time with their families. For offering feedback in a very professional manner and for being responsive to her team's needs. We are fortunate to have her as a leader.

• Nominated by David Seidner

Sonia Narez
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist your coworker in scheduling multiple appointments. For remaining patient, kind, calm and willing to go the extra mile to find appointments for our patients.

• Nominated by Marison Kimura

Charlene Newsome, PHN
Public Health
For being dedicated, kind and passionate about her work as a Public Health Nurse. For being a team-player, going the extra mile to assist her colleagues. For providing resources and detailed educational materials to help her patients, coworkers and the community.

• Nominated by Jennifer Bosch

Sally Reader
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her valued guidance and ongoing support, and for being there when needed the most.

• Nominated by Dennis Mallilli

Katherine Reece, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going the extra mile at work handling the diabetic clinic, diabetic supplies, A1C machines, outreach clinic as well as working in specialty clinics, Point-of-Care checkups, and staff training. For being knowledgeable, positive, never losing her smile, coming asap when coworkers ask for assistance and referring to our place of work as our "second home." For being an amazing nurse.

• Nominated by Camelia Menciu

Thomas Tighe
Mental Health Program Manager
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his positive attitude, ability to get things done, and for caring about patients and staff. For being a wonderful director and an example of Service Excellence with a smile.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Maria Barrientos
Disease Intervention Technician
Public Health
For consistently displaying immense compassion and an endless amount of patience with our K-12 and Daycare/Preschool communities as part of the Schools Team in the COVID Case Investigation and Contact Tracing (CI/CT) Branch. For her interpersonal skills and extraordinary ability to offer guidance and reassurance to all our educators, especially during times when COVID cases are surging and when health mandates are sometimes confusing.

• Nominated by Jennifer Shore

Janice Billingsley, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile with professionalism, providing leadership and service excellence. For being kind, caring, knowledgeable and conscientious.

• Nominated by Sue and Norma, MSW's

Brian Blaisch, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going above and beyond to provide excellent care for our Autism Behavior and Child Development (ABCD) patients as well as being available and helpful to ABCD staff.

• Nominated by Yesenia Najar-Ramirez

Iryna Falkenstein, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile and providing service excellence for a patient's care.

• Nominated by a Patient

Infection Control Program
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile, every day for 2.5 years. For working tirelessly throughout these difficult times and continuing to step up to the plate no matter what comes their way.

• Nominated by Sergio Urcuyo

Jackie Lehman
Clerk-Senior Level
Environmental Health
For his professionalism and for consistently going the extra mile to be of service to our customers. For always being willing to assist coworkers and share his wisdom to improve our programs.

• Nominated by Alma Cruz-Gomez

Chinyere Madawaki
Program Specialist I
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing service excellence for over 20 years. For going the extra mile to advocate for patients and staff and providing us with community resources. For being an outstanding communicator and leader.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Norma Martinez
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to provide service excellence to patients and staff. For being a pillar at West County for over 20 years, assisting all patients no matter who or what. For always remaining professional and being supportive to staff.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Skender Najibi, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to always provide service excellence and for being a kind, caring doctor and person.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Socorro Padilla
Community Health Worker II
Public Health
For going 10x the extra mile for patients, staff, and the community. For her caring and knowledgeable efforts that benefit everyone.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Miriam Lopez Palacios
Clerk-Experienced Level
Public Health
For her work in monitoring staff compliance and follow-up during multiple outbreaks at Public Health sites.

• Nominated by Alvin Silva

Yesenia Najar-Ramirez
Community Health Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being very supportive and helpful to the Social Services department. For assisting patients and staff with professional service excellence. For going the extra mile to solve problems and provide education that lifts and empowers others.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Regan Riewerts, RN
Public Health
For being amazing, going above and beyond her assigned work to ensure our foster youth are set up to live the best life possible.

• Nominated by Susanne Polos

Jessica Standish, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an admirable example of compassionate care and a wonderful part of the Detention team, setting an example for all of them to improve patient care and empathy.

• Nominated by Elizabeth Berryman, MD

Crystal Whitehead
Mental Health Community Support Worker II
Behavioral Health
For always going above and beyond to provide patients with compassionate support and community resources. For being a proactive team player, continuously looking for ways to improve care and services. For being a great asset to our clinic, a pleasure to work with, and for always going the "Extra Mile."

• Nominated by Hala Fattah

Haydee Wong
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a wonderful professional providing service excellence to all patients and staff.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Anita Green
Medical Staff Coordinator
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to cover some of my duties when I was out ill. For being a supportive coworker ensuring that I would not be backlogged when I returned to work.

• Nominated by Ashley Cramer 1/24/2022

Eric Sanders
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to ensure a wheelchair was on standby for a patient when they had an appointment at the Health Center. For checking on the patient, setting them up in the waiting area and making them feel comfortable. For being kind, attentive and understanding.

• Nominated by Client's Spouse 1/27/2022

Marcy Wilhelm
Clerk-Specialist Level
Finance
For spending endless hours preparing for and training our new staff member. For going the extra mile to find a different way to train them due to technology issues. For spending many hours working side by side with them to ensure they were understanding their job and meeting the Unit's standards. For going above and beyond to be helpful and for showing real leadership skills.

• Nominated by Leslie Walker 2/1/2022

Jessica Carter
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to ensure Healthy Start patients have the support they need and for going above and beyond, stepping up to support CCRMC during a recent pandemic surge.

• Nominated by Sally Reader 2/16/2022

Dennis Mallillin
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond in his new role at Pittsburg Health Center. For being a team player who is dedicated to helping his patients and coworkers.

• Nominated by Sally Reader 2/16/2022

Rachel Mitchell
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For jumping into her new position with both feet at Pittsburg Health Center and being a wonderful source of knowledge and support to her patients and colleagues. For helping make our team whole.

• Nominated by Sally Reader 2/16/2022

Lori Kennon-Bizicki
Daisy Chavarria
Estrella Meza
Niasha Dorton
Kim Huynh
Lisa Hyde
Cheryl Maldonado
Vivian Masinas
Leslie Palomino
Behavioral Health
For diligently and unselfishly continuing to work non-stop during the pandemic to serve our clients. For collaborating to come up with temporary workflows while working on campus and remotely. For their dedication that ensured the Program never skipped a beat.

• Nominated by Michele Simes 2/23/2022

Sonia Monroy
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an exemplary county employee demonstrating and exhibiting Service Excellence daily. For consistently going above and beyond to ensure that the needs of all patients and staff are met. For her excellent work ethic, frequently taking on additional assignments without hesitation, including assisting the registration manager and her department when they were without a supervisor. For being a resource to her peers as well as her acts of kindness towards them resulting in a work family atmosphere. For continuously aiding the new supervisor with information, suggestions and implementation of new processes.

• Nominated by Gloria Bravo 3/3/2022

Gabriela Apilado, RN
Jaime Baculpo, RN
Alicia Grand, RN
Maritza Vukalcic, RN
Riza Mae Wilford, RN
Nayeli Zavala, RN
Public Health Nurses
Thenisha Riggs
Health Education Specialist
Dawn Dailey, PhD, RN, PHNCS-BC
Nurse Program Manager
Contra Costa Nurse-Family Partnership
Family, Maternal and Child Health Programs
Public Health
For 10 years of dedicated service to first time parents in the Contra Costa community and excelling in supporting the families they serve. For improving maternal health, infant health and development, and increasing family economic self-sufficiency through the maternal child home visitation Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program. For the high-quality nursing intervention provided to 575 families with the outcome of 92% full-term newborns, 99% receiving breastmilk, and 97% up to date on immunizations at 24 months of age. For being recognized nationally as a leader in the NFP, including the development of the Goal Mama App, and across multiple National Innovations Advisory committees. For adhering closely to model fidelity to provide high quality nursing care as well as being highly accomplished in reflective practice and supporting nurse wellness resulting in minimal nurse turnover over the last decade, including their dual service to the Community of Contra Costa and NFP families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Nominated by the National Service Office for Nurse-Family Partnership and Child First

Chiye Avila
Clerk-Experienced Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing decades of service excellence in support of the Medical Social Services Department. For going above and beyond with a smile and being extremely helpful and kind.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez, MSW's

Krystal Barrett
Certified Medical Assistant
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing excellent care to her patients and everyone in our West County clinic community. For being intelligent, fair, kind and conscientious; a true gem.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez. MSWs

Jackie Bearden
Re-Entry Health Conductor
Public Health
For going the extra mile to assist clients in getting food and food cards. For her advocacy, kindness and wonderful personality.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer

Laura Bright
Clerk-Senior Level
Finance
For being an all-around exceptional human being. For being a strong, independent, intelligent and quick/forward thinker with a can-do attitude. For going the extra mile to be helpful to everyone and one of the most dependable assets of the Contracts and Grants Unit. For being an exemplary representative for Contra Costa County.

• Nominated by Noel Garcia

Dawn Dailey, PhD, RN
Nurse Program Manager
Public Health
For her outstanding leadership resulting in minimal nurse turnover. For being passionate, compassionate, supportive and hands-on in her work. For applying all the program tenets and client-centered and trauma-informed principles in her supervision of staff, ensuring they know they are as important as their clients. For promoting a strength-based environment through team-building activities and consistent team meetings. For being non-judgmental, valuing autonomy and allowing team members to assume leadership roles. For creating a team that is diverse, supportive of each other, promotes self-care, and shares the values of the program. For being an outstanding role model.

• Nominated by the Nurse-Family Partnership Team

Candace Dearden
Medical Staff Coordinator
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always being positive and helpful, working diligently without complaints, especially on days when she is the only Medical Staff Coordinator (out of four). For stepping up to assist each Coordinator in completing assignments as well as maintaining her own work. For finishing a significant amount of Provider Request for Leave/Clinic Modifications (A323's) for a coworker who was on leave for several months. For being a great asset to our team, a pleasure to work with, and always going the "Extra Mile."

• Nominated by Anita Green

Candace Dearden
Medical Staff Coordinator
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always being positive and helpful, working diligently without complaints, especially on days when she is the only Medical Staff Coordinator (out of four). For stepping up to assist each Coordinator in completing assignments as well as maintaining her own work. For finishing a significant amount of Provider Request for Leave/Clinic Modifications (A323's) for a coworker who was on leave for several months. For being a great asset to our team, a pleasure to work with, and always going the "Extra Mile."

• Nominated by Anita Green

Jeannie Detomasi
Secretary-Advanced
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a wonderful support to the Medical Social Services Department and others in the county. For being helpful, knowledgeable and providing excellent service with a smile.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez, MSWs

Leila Dongallo, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For working into her lunch hour to assist a doctor in the care of a patient who was agitated, frustrated, and very late to their appointment. For being kind and compassionate towards the patient's situation and going the extra mile to ensure their needs were met prior to leaving the clinic.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Mohammad Joey Faiez, RN
Charge Nurse
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to ensure safety and to meet the needs of an agitated patient who struggled to communicate. For keeping the situation calm and providing direction to ensure the patient received the care they needed.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Maria Flores
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being kind and patient. For going the extra mile to ensure everyone that comes to her feels good before they leave.

• Nominated by Sonya Tafoya

Katrina Forrest
Medical Social Worker II
Public Health
For being extremely dedicated to her clients and colleagues. For taking on additional responsibilities to ensure client and program goals, all with a warm, caring demeanor which is appreciated by clients and colleagues alike.

• Nominated by Alvaro Rivas

Anthony Gillis
Mobile Clinic Operator
Public Health
For his work, work ethic, and positive attitude working with School-Based Clinics (SBC) and Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) teams. For making his role look effortless and never hesitating to offer help to anyone in need. For being an amazing team player, a model employee and an asset to Contra Costa Health.

• Nominated by Julia Surges

Erica Givens
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health
For going the extra mile to ensure clients are well taken care of.

• Nominated by Carmen Francois

Geannina Perez Henriquez
Clerk-Specialist Level
Behavioral Health
For continuously working to keep up staff morale through the pandemic by thinking of creative ways to keep us all engaged: zoom events, decorating the office, and always having a positive, can-do and how can I help attitude. For being extremely supportive of coworkers and taking on duties at numerous sites with vigor and a positive attitude, while keeping the needs of the clients and community we serve at the forefront of all the actions she takes. For being a gem in the children's world and making all our work lives much easier.

• Nominated by Marilyn Franklin

Isabel Hernandez
Medical Social Worker II
Public Health
For being involved in ensuring her clients are receiving optimal case management services by making herself available and securing information regarding ever-changing supportive services within the entire Bay Area region. For being a consummate professional in how she manages her clients and supports her colleagues.

• Nominated by Alvaro Rivas

Jeff Hogan
Sheriff Ranger
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his outstanding job of containing an agitated patient in a calm, compassionate way. For going the extra mile, outdoors in the heat, trying to assist the patient and ensure the patient and everyone else in the clinic stayed safe.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

James Lancaster, LMFT
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For consistently going above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to leading the Mental Health Evaluation Team (MHET). For his amazing rapport with all 26 law enforcement agencies in our county, creating positive relationships and enabling MHET Clinicians to safely navigate the community to help some of our most vulnerable residents. For leading by example, stepping up without being asked, and responding to and preventing crisis situations in the community. For truly being a gift and an asset to Forensic Mental Health.

• Nominated by Ylan Hunt

Yolanda Larios
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond, jumping in without hesitation to take on the responsibility of covering the scheduler desk at Antioch Health Center while still completing her own tasks without interruption. For building and managing the scheduling and timesheets for Bay Point Health Center, as well as assisting with clinic needs at the Brentwood Health Center when they were short staffed. For processing timesheets for all three clinics and completing them before the deadline. For her positive outlook, can-do attitude, and being a supportive team player. For demonstrating the true definition of Service Excellence.

• Nominated by Stephanie Brophy

Elsy Lewis
Student Intern
Office of the Director
For being kind and helpful at the Juneteenth celebration in Pittsburg. For going the extra mile to ensure a client received the tools and information they needed regarding CCHS. For being sweet to their children who also learned so much from the encounter.

• Nominated by a Client

Maureen Morelli, RN
Public Health
For going above and beyond by tracking a mutual patient's appointment and calling 911 when they did not show up or answer their phone resulting in saving the patient's life. For her diligence, quick thinking and kind heart. For being a hero!

• Nominated by Sally Reader, MSW

Andrea Mostella
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a positive force all through the pandemic in the Nurse Staffing Office. For gracefully stepping into the role of Lead Clerk, covering shifts without being asked.

• Nominated by Sally Barnett

Joel Nubia, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist a patient who was struggling to communicate and became agitated. For helping to determine what the patient needed and ensuring it happened.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

James Pehling, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For exhibiting true character and professionalism in the most difficult era of COVID-19. For not allowing the sheer volume of new patients get in the way of providing top medical services to those with compromised immunity. His dedication to his patients and those working with and around him, is admired and appreciated.

• Nominated by Alvaro Rivas

Christina Ponce, RN
Infection Prevention and Control Manager
Public Health
For leading the effort to assist our congregate care facilities in the county understand and set up effective infection control measures to help protect our vulnerable populations. For being resilient, creative, proactive, a life saver, and an amazing example of public service. For being an honor to work with.

• Nominated by Nicki Brito

Katherine Reece, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always putting everyone before herself. For being Employee of the Month for two years straight.

• Nominated by Jazmin Montesinos

Gina Reed
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to provide assistance wherever and whenever needed. For being professional, conscientious and always providing service excellence.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Norma Martinez, MSWs

Jennifer Robbins
Homeless Services Chief
Health, Housing and Homeless Services
For spending endless hours supporting H3 programs in both contracting, program operations, and ending unsheltered homelessness. For always being supportive, showing real leadership, never giving up and being a role model for all who work alongside her.

• Nominated by Michael Fischer

Lorena Salcedo-Alvarado
Medical Staff Coordinator
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going above and beyond the call of duty to guarantee quality in her work, double and triple checking to ensure resident clinics are correct. For her tireless ability to do all she does so well and with a positive attitude.

• Nominated by JoAnn Valencia

Veronica Sanchez
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an asset to the Nurse Staffing Office through the pandemic. For being a positive influence during some very difficult times.

• Nominated by Sally Barnett

Philip Sargent
Clerk-Experienced Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his willingness to step up and cover shifts when needed. For going the extra mile to build staff morale with his sense of humor and Halloween treats that he delivers to each of our units.

• Nominated by Randi Johnson

Mark Smith, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to care for a patient who was agitated and struggling to communicate. For remaining calm and patient, working hard to understand what the patient was requesting. For his care of the patient, ensuring their medical needs were met even though they were frustrated and very late to his appointment.

• Nominated by Sally Reader

Debra Stokes
Social Worker
Public Health
For her professionalism and for always going the extra mile to assist our Community Connect program. For being a great team player.

• Nominated by Raquel Cobos

Joshua Whitmeir, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going above and beyond for your patients. For being willing to assist coworkers and for promoting teamwork.

• Nominated by Katie Mendez, RN

Daniella Poy-Wing, RN
Nurse Program Manager
Public Health
For constantly going above and beyond to ensure staff and providers are taken care of, enabling them to provide excellent service and care for all our patients. For being emotionally intelligent, an expert problem-solver and a graceful leader.

• Nominated by Sara Levin

Isela Zamora
Community Health Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist whenever and wherever she is needed. For being kind and helpful to patients and staff.

• Nominated by Gina Reed

Jose Ortiz
Ramona Chavez
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond their respectful duties in providing adequate staffing to multiple departments in the hospital. For always being welcoming and professional when nurses have requests or questions regarding schedules. For communicating with each other and responding in a timely manner. For being an asset to the nursing staffing department.

• Nominated by Eddie Geoffrey Ong

Joanne Alvarenga, RN, PHN
Public Health
For taking time out of her busy schedule to help problem-solve a patient issue. For her friendly demeanor, expertise and willingness to assist.

• Nominated by Teresa Gonzalez

Karen Glover
Clerical Supervisor
Public Health
For demonstrating an exceptional ability to provide service excellence in her work at California Children's Services. For participating as a member of the management team and offering a "can do" positive attitude. For providing excellent customer service to clients, families and providers. For being a joy to have as part of our team.

• Nominated by Krista Peterson

Ricardo Perez
Lead Health Conductor
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For sincerely caring about our patients, working with systems to advocate for them. For being reliable and knowledgeable about Medi-Cal and its process and for being a perfect Team Player.

• Nominated by Rachel Mitchell

Cinthia Sanchez, RN
Public Health
For her professional demeanor that was patient-focused, open, reassuring and supportive, letting me know I was a person as well as a patient. For taking the time to ask relevant health information, explaining pertinent medical and aftercare details, and answering my questions with patience even though she must repeat these medical protocols several times a day. For instilling confidence, trust and hope. For going "above and beyond" for the health and welfare of the public she serves.

• Nominated by a Patient/Client

Erinn Smith, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For smiling and laughing with patients and for her demeanor that defuses difficult situations. For connecting easily with patients, instilling trust that enables them to be open about issues they are struggling with. For always being willing to assist even when things are not technically her job and despite a very long commute. For her commitment to our patients.

• Nominated by Kimberly Butler

CCHS Public Health Division
For being a very professional, well-organized and patient-friendly roll-out of the COVID vaccination program. For being able to schedule COVID vaccines in a timely fashion, from appointment availability, to wait times, to encounters with Public Health medical staff who are knowledgeable, organized, efficient, display great attention to detail, and have a very good "bedside manner" all interactions have been very positive. For the "above and beyond" professionalism they display for the health and welfare of the public they serve.

• Nominated by a Patient/Client

School-Based Clinics Health Education Team
Public Health
For their dedication to serving our youth, stepping up in a major way to ensure they meet the needs of any young person that reaches out to them. For going above and beyond, all while wearing a smile, and taking the word "Teamwork" to another level. For being proud and grateful to work with such an amazing team.

• Nominated by Jicara Collins

2021

Ibeth Perez Cota
Sead Alispahic
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond their expected duties and always with a smile. For ensuring the 4D NOC shift unit is always clean and for responding promptly to calls and requests. For their excellent teamwork and problem-solving skills.

• Nominated by Eddie Geoffrey Ong, RN 1/28/21

Teblets Tesfazghi, CNA
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For performing above and beyond his duties to provide excellent patient care and ensure patient safety during a very busy night-shift weekend. For being a great addition to our team and demonstrating exemplary teamwork.

• Nominated by Eddie Geoffrey Ong, RN 1/28/2021

Ravinder Kaur
Certified Nursing Assistant
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being flexible and willing to help as needed during our busiest hours.

• Nominated by Maribeth Dalit and the 5D NOC Shift 1/29/2021

Web Designer
Office of the Director
For designing My Chart and making it easy to navigate and schedule a COVID appointment. For the well organized and efficient injection sites.

• Nominated by a Patient 2/22/2021

Yvonne Hollister
Manager, Utilization Management
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist a patient and their family when I did not know where else to turn. For showing tremendous compassion and willingness to go the extra mile to ultimately resolve the whole situation.

• Nominated by Sally Reader 5/7/2021

Mike Allday
Andre Doucette
Mike Espinoza
Christina Frandsen
Joseph Gordon
Chris Hammel
Dave Johnson
Nyasha Jones
Jeremiah Juruena
Erik Mann
Marc Matute
James Nelson
Monica Rodas
Lee Schugar
Diego Gonzalez
Information Technology
For their commitment to customer service and their unwavering diligence and perseverance with limited staffing throughout the entire COVID 19 pandemic.

• Nominated by Dave Johnson 6/22/2021

Mayalyn Lopez
Promotora
Public Health
For her service excellence, going the extra mile to assist me with patients I refer to her for guidance in completing the forms needed to get full coverage and upload to CalWin. For being responsive and kind and for keeping me updated on the patients I refer to her.

• Nominated by Connie Nguy 6/30/2021

Kathi Caudel
Clerical Supervisor
Personnel
For going the extra mile for the Residency Department. For assisting us with onboarding and offboarding 26 resident physicians every year. For being easily accessible, explaining new or changed requirements and offering support with tight timelines. For her friendly demeanor and team-player attitude.

• Nominated by JoAnn Valencia 7/23/2021

Rodney Gottschall
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond in communicating with the Residency Department with our various ongoing issues and requests. For being an excellent communicator, very efficient and a great team-player. For taking ownership of his job and for being a strong stand out in his department.

• Nominated by JoAnn Valencia 7/23/2021

Steven Morioka
Assistant Director
Hazardous Materials
For going above and beyond for our office. For managing our division while working dual jobs with the COVID response. For ensuring we had everything needed to work from home and for checking in regularly. For leading us over the last 18 months with support, encouragement and compassion. Knowing you have our backs is the reason I come to work each day.

• Nominated by Fahlon Zappelli 9/13/2021

Ivon Rodas Guzman
Elisa Pulido
Patricia Gomez
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond, working as a team and being instrumental in preventing an arsonist from starting a fire at the back of EVS.

• Nominated by Swandi Singh 9/13/2021

Nursing Staffing Department
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond, stepping up during a time of staff shortages and constant changes. For doing an amazing job and pulling through a difficult time during the pandemic.

• Nominated by Veronica Sanchez 9/21/2021

Kalkidan Gebeyhu, CNA
Malkit Kaur, CNA
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For caring for their patients without hesitation and notifying RN's of any untoward signs and symptoms that need to be addressed. For being a good example of dedicated workers in their chosen field of profession.

• Nominated by Liwayway Cook 10/13/2021

Katherine Caballero
Community Health Worker I
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her hard work and dedication to the West County Health Clinic and its patients. For being a friendly, caring and patient Front Door Screener in what can often be a challenging position.

• Nominated by Gina Reed 12/17/2021

Elizabeth Gomez
Community Health Worker Specialist
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her hard work and dedication to the West County Health Clinic and its patients. For working the "Question Mark Window" with patience, kindness and respect.

• Nominated by Gina Reed 12/17/2021

Tabitha Valdivia
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond as the Care Coordinator at West County Health Clinic. For being caring, hardworking and an asset to the clinic. For always going the extra mile for patients and coworkers.

• Nominated by Gina Reed 12/17/2021

2020

Dawn Dailey, RN
Program Manager
Public Health
For her outstanding, dedicated and vitally important community service, serving for over 20 years on the California Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Advisory Council, benefiting families across the State who have been touched by SIDS as well as helping to prevent this tragedy from happening to others.

• Nominated by Dr. Tom Keens, Chair of the California SIDS Advisory Council 1/3/2020

Joe Gordon
Information Systems Technician II
Information Technology
For his continuous efforts to assist our health centers quickly and effectively. For being extremely responsive to any request and always making whomever he is speaking with feel like they are top priority. For going the extra mile to assist us promptly and for following through with our multiple projects.

• Nominated by Stephanie Brophy 1/7/2020

Lisa Hyde
Clerk-Experienced Level
Behavioral Health
For her ability to prep and prepare the prescreening information needed for a swift registration process at East County Adult Mental Health Services, allowing the rest of the team to work more efficiently. For being a quick learner and a great team player.

• Nominated by Anonymous 1/7/2020

Sandra Scroggins
HR Analyst II
Personnel
For her resourcefulness, enthusiasm, problem solving skills, insight and knowledge. For going the extra mile and being a key contributor for a smooth transition in my new venture.

• Nominated by Jennifer Bosch 1/7/2020

Brandy Kirchner
Surgery Scheduler
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being extremely kind and for going the extra mile to help very busy surgeons and anesthesiologists find time to complete important paperwork on behalf of their fellow medical staff.

• Nominated by Anonymous 1/8/2020

Kim Dao, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her excellent assessment skills in recognizing a patient with stroke symptoms and immediately calling for assistance to have the patient transferred to ICU for further treatment and intervention.

• Nominated by the 4B Unit 1/13/2020

Eric Jackson
Substance Abuse Counselor
Public Health
For consistently going above and beyond to assist me with a mutual patient, including at times of crisis. For being a tireless advocate and source of support for our patient. I am incredibly grateful for all he has done.

• Nominated by Sally Reader 1/20/2020

Michelle Vaughn, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her efficient and effective teamwork during a code blue. For exhibiting close-loop communication, care and professionalism while being surrounded by a room full of non-assisting on-lookers.

• Nominated by Stevani Verducci 1/21/2020

Soccoro Padilla
Community Health Worker
Public Health
For holding true to the meaning of her name in Spanish: Rescue. For working hard every day saving lives and assisting patients with caring and kindness with a variety of issues. For being a true professional and the strength and backbone for the Health Conductors (formerly Promotoras) and extremely wonderful with the Health Leads by providing the utmost support to staff, patients and the entire community. For the outstanding service excellence her department provides and for being an absolute blessing to the Social Workers.

• Nominated by Norma, Sue, Via, MSW Team 1/22/2020

Jose Bustillos, Contract Employee
Swandi Singh, Temporary Employee
Jeffrey Garrison, Environmental Services Supervisor
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For all their hard work and for doing an excellent job in deep cleaning the 4A unit.

• Nominated by the 4A and 4B Nursing Staff 1/23/2020

Marissa McWilliam, RN
Janice Vertudez, Family Nurse Practitioner
Leslie Monroy, Health Education Specialist
Nicole Ureda, Senior Disease Intervention Technician
Clinic Services Administration
Public Health
For their coordinated care for a high-risk teen at one of our School Based Health Centers. For working urgently and successfully resulting in a positive outcome for our client.

• Nominated by Leigh Pierson Brown 2/6/2020

Ngozi Enemalom, RN
Nursing Program Manager
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For stepping up and leading a double role for over one year as PES and 4C's NPM and overseeing the reopening of 4D, ensuring patient safety, safety regulations for mental health patients, staffing and much more. For maintaining a positive atmosphere where chaos could easily take over. For your insight and appreciation of your staff, keeping things running smoothly. For working so diligently especially where patient and staff safety is concerned.

• Nominated by Shenna Madison 2/9/2020 and DeAnn Bologna 10/9/2020

Jeff Cameron, Assistant Director-Infrastructure
Tue Tran
Teri Williams
Jennifer Wood
Systems Analyst II Information Technology
For their tireless diligence and dedication to the Two Factor Authentication Project (2FA) and their expert technical leadership in all facets of the system in ensuring that the correct solution was implemented. For their superior communication skills for nourishing a powerful, positive team environment that worked under significant pressure for the duration of the project.

• Nominated by Rebecca Carr 2/11/2020

Krystal Barrett
Certified Medical Assistant
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being professional, courteous and caring to every patient and coworker. For providing high quality nursing services with her intelligence, kindness and smile.

• Nominated by Sandhu Gurbir and the Medical Social Workers and Staff at the WCHC 2/13/2020

Kathleen Sitton
Clerk-Specialist Level
Personnel
For always being easily accessible, present and reliable to convey accurate information for the complex hiring issues that are encountered. For consistently demonstrating professionalism, respect and calmness during time-sensitive situations. For being a joy to work with.

• Nominated by Patricia Bernhardt 2/27/2020

Katie O'Shea
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an asset to the 4C unit, doing a wonderful job and going out of her way to be of assistance while her manager is on leave.

• Nominated by Shenna Madison 2/29/2020

Patricia Limon
Administrative Aide-Deep Class
Public Health
For being incredibly helpful, patient and kind in putting together the schedule on a weekly basis for the Community Health Worker (CHW) team as part of Public Health Clinic Services.

• Nominated by Shanda Young 3/4/2020

Monique Grant
Laboratory Technician II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For demonstrating professionalism and excellent communication with 5D night shift staff. For being on point with lab draws and for systematically calling the unit to make sure all lab draws are released, enabling her to manage and prioritize her time effectively. For being a delightful person to work with.

• Nominated by Maria Panaligan 3/16/2020

Amy Linsao
Mental Health Clinical Specialist
Behavioral Health
For her deep concern for clients and their care, finding innovative ways to meet their needs. For her profound knowledge of our systems of care and the ability to effectively collaborate and navigate them in our clients' best interest.

• Nominated by Tieaesha Gaines 3/20/2020

Geoffrey Martin
Pre-Hospital Care Coordinator
Emergency Medical Services
For going above and beyond by immediately stepping up when COVID-19 surfaced, helping EMS serve the county to protect and preserve health during the pandemic. For his foresight in seeing the need for EMS to stay connected and united by adding staff and coordinating and implementing shared office space with our new building mate, the DOC. For being constantly responsive, supportive, and proactive and ensuring we had all we needed to work remotely.

• Nominated by Jeanne Kerr 3/20/2020

Gurjeet Bhandal, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her diligent checking in with staff and for demanding service excellence regarding patient care from all social workers at West County Health Center.

• Nominated by the WCHC Social Work Department 4/2/2020

Michael Fong
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health
For doing an outstanding job throughout his career assisting our homeless clients effortlessly and with extreme service excellence made more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. For going the extra mile every day as a coworker and being a wonderful team player assisting with peer support and supervision.

• Nominated by Via Linder and Sue Meltzer 4/2/2020

Caroline Killough
Ambulatory Care Clinic Supervisor
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being amazing with patient, staff and community care during the COVID-19 pandemic. For organizing the clinic to keep everyone safe and sound, working hard and commanding service excellence from all.

• Nominated by Social Services MSW Team 4/2/2020

LVN/CNA Unit
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being versatile, adaptable and compassionate working with COVID patients as well as long- term patients. For redirecting challenging behaviors with compassion, strategy and patience. For consistently going the extra mile for our high-risk patient population and being the glue that holds the clinical team together providing excellent care to our most challenging long-term patients. We are honored to be a part of their team and look forward to delivering care together in the many years to come.

• Nominated by Jonathan Alonso and the Rehab Department 4/13/2020

Marc Matute
Information Systems Technician II
Information Technology
For going the extra mile to provide me with a laptop to work at home during the COVID-19 shelter-in-place. For taking the time to assist me with set-up problems and teaching me how to understand and fully operate the VPN and printing. For his exceptional customer service, experience and professionalism during a stressful transition.

• Nominated by Kathleen Cyr 4/30/2020

Norma Martinez
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to provide service excellence. For assessing, advocating and providing counseling to patients and staff while lifting their spirits. For providing full-time coverage during COVID-19 caring about her patients, coworkers and the community. For being intelligent, dedicated, committed, loyal, generous and kind.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 5/4/2020

Mariana Noy
Mental Health Program Chief
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing service excellence by reaching out to the Medical Social Services Department, Health Conductors (Promotoras) and other departments during the COVID-19 pandemic. For sending daily emails with pandemic updates and offering support to staff. For being a true example of quality, caring and professional support as a supervisor and for having a great sense of humor!

• Nominated by the Outpatient Social Workers Team and All of Her Staff 5/4/2020

Yvette Brown
Institutional Services Worker-Generalist
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile helping to keep the building sanitized and clean. For providing service excellence to patients and staff and always with a smile.

• Nominated by Via Linder 5/26/2020

Lorrie Knott
Timekeeping Technician
Payroll
For going the extra mile assisting with payroll and time sheet issues. For providing service excellence with a smile for the many years she's been with Contra Costa County.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer and Via Linder 5/26/2020

Thomas Warne, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For assisting me without hesitation when I was experiencing a difficult afternoon. For proving every day why he became a doctor.

• Nominated by Janice Billingsley 6/1/2020

Harold Santos
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always going the extra mile for patients and staff. For being courteous, kind and providing service excellence with a smile.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 6/2/2020

Ramona Chavez
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an asset to the Nursing Staffing Office especially during COVID-19. For her leadership and positive encouragement.

• Nominated by Veronica Sanchez 6/11/2020

Shenna Madison
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always being there to help pick up slack, assist with my workload and bring us together when tasks need to get done. For being a great asset to the Nursing Staffing Office department.

• Nominated by Veronica Sanchez 6/11/2020

Tony Ortiz
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For his professional attitude, assisting me when needed and being a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day. For being an asset to the Nursing Staffing Office department.

• Nominated by Veronica Sanchez 6/11/2020

Marissa Elliott
Director of Clinic Services
Public Health
For working tirelessly to bring her role as Branch Director of Case and Contact Tracing to excellence. For being steadfast with this heavy lift with many moving parts and expanding the Branch to over 200 employees doing various tasks. For her calm demeanor and transparency during this pandemic.

• Nominated by Cheryl Ford 8/21/2020

Regina Panaligan, RN
5D Night Charge Nurse
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always coming to work with a smile and helpful attitude. For taking the time without hesitation to teach me how to use the acuity screen. For constantly checking on patients to ensure they are safe at night and for assessing medical equipment to be sure they are functioning properly. For caring about patients' and coworkers' safety, reminding us to work six feet apart and of proper PPE during the COVID pandemic. For her supportive leadership and for promoting unity teamwork with kindness, a caring heart and listening ears.

• Nominated by Yupa Assawasuksant 8/31/2020

Emerson Sahagun, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being my preceptor when I started my career at 5D and for knowing I will have a blessed shift whenever I work with him. For walking the hallway room to room to check patients, help coworkers, replace computer batteries, fill up medical supplies in medication room, locate IV pump/IV stand, refill bed bath/incontinence warmer supplies and assist RNs to settle patients who transfer from ED, ICU, IMCU and 4B. For going the extra mile, helping coworkers before being asked and for maintaining a sense of humor.

• Nominated by Yupa Assawasuksant 8/31/2020

Bryan Thomas
Project Manager
Information Technology
For setting up the Contracts and Grants Unit with DocuSign in record time during the COVID crisis. For assisting us by drastically reducing contract turnaround time due to electronic signatures.

• Nominated by Tasha Scott 9/1/20

Eva Cuadra
Clerk-Senior Level
Public Health
For working hard daily on our time sheets and time corrections without complaint. For being a pleasant coworker, always in a good mood and willing to help fellow workers in need of information.

• Nominated by Nancy Mosqueda 9/2/2020

Jennifer Ostrander, RN
Public Health
For being a pleasure to work with, always in a great mood, a true team player, and for consistently being willing to take on more tasks than required. For being an excellent Public Health Nurse, always willing to participate or place herself out there to help others. For her ginormous heart and helping hands.

• Nominated by Nancy Mosqueda 9/2/2020

Luz-Elena Onate
Clerk-Senior Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond to assist a patient who revealed they were having a mental health crisis. For keeping the patient on the phone until they were connected to the crisis team. For being a hero!

• Nominated by Sally Reader 9/14/2020

Lori Pagan, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For working as a team to assist a patient who was having a mental health crisis. For helping the patient calm down and ensuring they were connected to the crisis team to get the help they needed. For being a hero!

• Nominated by Sally Reader 9/14/2020

Jane Luna, RN
CCU Charge Nurse
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going the extra mile to train me in the care of COVID-19 PUI and ICU patients, learning critical nursing skills to help save lives. For her work ethic and helping hands on many occasions. For going above and beyond to assist nurses with starting new IVs, incontinence care, setting up beds for incoming patients and countless other duties. For being an example of an exceptional Charge Nurse spending most of her time in the unit assisting coworkers with completing tasks and promoting the safety of our patients and staff especially during the COVID pandemic.

• Nominated by Yupa Assawasuksant 9/16/2020

Grace Ma, RN
Nursing Program Manager
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For her inspiring quote: "We come here to work, we don't come here to create more work for other people." For creating a unity of teamwork, helping hands and taking pride for what we do to deliver high quality care for our patients. For having her heart on the safety of our patients and employees.

• Nominated by Yupa Assawasuksant 9/16/2020

Katie O'Shea
Clerk-Specialist Level
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For putting patient and staff safety at the top of her list and jumping in when anyone needs a hand. For filling the needs of what was once two units and has grown to three, all while making sure everyone is safe and has their credentials and supplies.

• Nominated by DeAnn Bologna 10/9/2020

Carmen Francois
Homeless Services Specialist
Public Health
For being a wonderful supportive resource and enriching the lives of our patients and community. For being an outstanding professional providing service excellence to her clients and their care.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 10/14/2020

Angela Gonzalez
Clerk-Senior Level
Public Health
For providing service excellence at the COVID call center. For assisting patients with a steady, calm and helpful manner answering their many questions and helping them register for testing.

• Nominated by Carmen Tourte 10/16/2020

Milagros Garcia, PHN
Supervisor
Public Health
For going the extra mile for patients and staff. For being an outstanding supervisor and leader.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 10/27/2020

Obiel Leyva
Community Education and Testing Manager
Public Health
For creating and implementing "Home is Where the Swab Is," a home-testing program offering contactless STI and HIV testing to Contra Costa residents. For helping our community members safely stay in control of their sexual health during COVID and for being recognized by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) as a model of client-centered and innovative care.

• Nominated by Jessica Osorio 10/27/2020

Alvin Silva
Director, Clinical Services
Public Health
For his commitment and dedication to our testing efforts while continuing to support Health Care for the Homeless, Choosing Change, Immunizations and a smattering of other PHCS services. For constantly rising to the challenge of regular requests for COVID testing: events, new sites, mobile, detention, outbreaks, flu, antigen, etc., while maintaining professionalism and positivity. For going above and beyond, working many hours, leaning into so many challenges, and continuing to show up for work with a smile and a joke in hand.

• Nominated by Rachael Birch 11/13/2020

Mireya Diaz, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being an asset to the Brentwood Health Center, always stepping up and going the extra mile to help inside and outside the clinic. For taking on the difficult task of covering for our charge nurse when needed. For her outstanding organization in running the COVID Vaccine Clinic and leading staff to support 800+ patients. For being a real example of service excellence, sympathizing with patients and being a blessed member of our team.

• Nominated by Stephanie Brophy and Sujeeta Sukhu 11/25/2020

2019

Elmer Varsovia, LVN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For always making himself available to assist wherever needed. For his knowledge when assisting a coworker using a Hoyer Lift to transfer an elderly and anxious patient from a wheelchair to the X-ray table. For being gentle and reassuring while working with the patient.

• Nominated by Carlotta McClain 11/15/2019

Mark Condit
Ana Jimenez
Luisa Arguello-Mendoza
Maribel Rodrigues
TB Program Disease Intervention Technicians
Public Health
For always caring for our clients with compassion and expertise. For stepping up to assist the Public Health Nurses and working as a team to provide the best care possible.

• Nominated by Laurie Crider 11/21/2019

Fernando Liquido, MD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For being a godsend to the West County Clinic providing service excellence to patients and staff. For always going above and beyond for his patients and for being kind in general to all.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 11/22/2019

Yevgeniy Sergiyenko, RN
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing service excellence to patients and staff. For being a great nurse who is kind and for being a team player.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer 11/22/2019

Nonye Agu
Certified Nursing Assistant
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For going above and beyond her expected duties to ensure patient safety and comfort during the 5D NOC shift and for maintaining cleanliness in the unit.

• Nominated by Eddie Mendoza Ong 12/11/2019

Carla Del Guercio-Domnick
Medical Social Worker II
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For stationing herself outside my office to provide safety and consultation while I met with a high-risk patient with a history of aggression, drug use and severe mental illness. For her exemplary support, hard work and dedication to the Medical Social Services unit and our patients at Martinez Health Center.

• Nominated by Linda Wise 12/17/2019

Sharman Wong, OD
Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and Health Centers
For providing over 40 years of service excellence to our patients and staff. For being excellent at her job and extremely dedicated to her outstanding professional performance.

• Nominated by Sue Meltzer