NGH and NHNH honour exceptional staff
(Photo left to right: Kim Mullins, Vice-President Clinical and Chief Nursing Executive; Josh VanLoon, Food and Nutrition and Housekeeping Professional; and Dan Bergen, Maintenance.)
(Simcoe) – Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH) recently celebrated the outstanding dedication of their staff at the annual OSCARS and Dr. George Marshall Award ceremonies. Held on December 17, this special event recognized the people who make a difference every day—those who go above and beyond to provide compassionate care, support their colleagues, and create a positive environment for patients, families and residents.
Honouring the Legacy of Dr. George Marshall
The Dr. George Marshall Award is named in honour of a respected physician who devoted much of his career to NGH. Dr. Marshall, known for his compassionate care and commitment to staff well-being, served as an Employee Health Physician and left an enduring legacy of kindness and excellence.
This award celebrates individuals who embody Dr. Marshall’s values—those who make exceptional contributions to the hospital, its staff, and its patients. Recipients are nominated by their colleagues, reflecting the deep respect and appreciation they’ve earned from their peers.
This year’s Dr. George Marshall Award recipient
Josh VanLoon, a valued member of NGH’s Food and Nutrition and Housekeeping team, was this year’s recipient of the Dr. George Marshall Individual Award. Josh is known for his dedication, kindness, and commitment to safety and teamwork.
In addition to his daily responsibilities, Josh also serves on the Health and Safety Committee, ensuring a safe environment for everyone at NGH. He is also recognized for thoughtful gestures, such as walking nurses and visitors to their vehicles at night to help ensure their safety.
“I love my job and being part of such a fantastic team that has the privilege of serving our community,” Josh shared. “Helping to brighten the day for our patients, residents, and families is a reward in itself. I also feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside true heroes who help me be the best I can be every day. This award belongs to all of us. I’m especially grateful to my family and my First Nations community, who give me the strength and resilience to carry on. A sincere thank-you to everyone who took the time to nominate me.”
Celebrating Excellence at NHNH
At NHNH, Heather Ambrosini, a dedicated Personal Support Worker (PSW), was named Employee of the Year for her outstanding care and compassion toward residents.
“Working in a nursing home is about more than providing care—it’s about building relationships and making this a true home for our residents,” said Susan Pajor, Interim Director of Care at NHNH. “Heather exemplifies this every day, and we are so proud to have her on our team.”
(Photo left to right: Heather Ambrosini, PSW; and Susan Pajor, Interim Director of Care at NHNH)
Heather, who also celebrated 10 years of service, expressed her gratitude: “I feel incredibly lucky to work with such an amazing group of people. This award means so much, and I’m thankful for the chance to make a difference in the lives of our residents.”
Recognizing longstanding service and career growth
This year, NGH and NHNH celebrated the incredible dedication of just over 100 employees and physicians, recognizing a total of 1,075 years of service. Highlights included three staff members marking 30 years of service and Kathryn Wardell, a Registered Nurse, celebrating an impressive 40 years with NGH.
The event also celebrated career growth, with four staff members receiving funding through the Hazel Race Career Advancement Fund to further their education and advance their careers.
NGH President and CEO, Todd Stepanuik, shared his appreciation for the dedication and commitment of the staff:
“To be recognized by your peers is a powerful reminder of the difference you make every day. Our staff and physicians embody our mission of relieving illness and suffering, and to help people live healthier lives. I’m inspired and grateful for the incredible dedication and teamwork I see at NGH and NHNH.”
Through these awards and celebrations, NGH and NHNH reaffirm their commitment to fostering a workplace where kindness, collaboration, and exceptional care thrive.
Media Contact:
Aaron Gautreau
Director of Communications & Public Relations
W: 519-426-0130 ext. 2454
