The Salem Township Hospital Foundation has named its hospital employee of the year.
Director of Med Surge Sandy Smith was surprised with the award at the Employee of the Year Award Ceremony on Wednesday morning.
“I’m very blessed,” Smith said. “I’m appreciative. There are so many nominees that should have got it also, but I’m thankful.”
Smith started as a nurse at Salem Township Hospital after graduation in 2008. She left for a larger hospital but then returned nine years ago to work in the emergency room. Smith was later promoted to her current position of Director of Med Surge. She says bigger hospitals are nice, but can’t compare to Salem Township Hospital.
“The staff and the patients that we take care of,” Smith said. “The hometown feel here, I think, is the biggest thing. Our administration has been amazing. I’ve been blessed with good staff and I think the hospital has good staff.”
Smith says she first got into nursing after her son was born with cardiac issues and she found the profession as a good way to help people.
The joint recognition project of Dr. and Mrs. Lakshmanan and Salem Township Hospital Foundation is held each year as part of National Hospital Week. As the winner, Smith receives a personal plaque, being included on the plaque with past winners, as well as a $1,000 cash award.
The co-workers who nominated her noted her leadership consistently exemplifies excellence, compassion and commitment to both patients and staff. It was also noted she goes above and beyond for her staff, leads by example, covering shifts when needed, mentors, and implements improvements ensuring every patient receives safe, high-quality care. The nomination also noted her leadership inspires all of the staff to do better.
