Morris Hospital Environmental Services Associate Honored for Excellence
November 20, 2017 – For most of her 27 years as an Environmental Services Associate at Morris Hospital, Linda Kopeshke, of Morris, has been keeping the 2 East inpatient unit looking immaculate. In recognition of her strong work ethic, high accountability, selflessness, and thoughtful and positive attitude, Kopeshke was selected Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers’ Fire Starter of the Month for November.
“Linda epitomizes the best of the Environmental Services’ employee,” says Cindy Stubler, Manager of Environmental Services at Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers. “She is committed to patient safety through front-line infection prevention and holds herself to the highest standards of cleaning while being sensitive to the needs of the patients in her assigned work area. She expects the best out of herself and her co-workers.”
According to Stubler, Kopeshke is known to reach out to patients who have no visitors or struggle with serious medical conditions, making them feel comfortable and cared for during the time she spends cleaning their room. Patients find her demeanor “warm and welcoming.”
“I have received numerous calls directly from patients who praise Linda’s hard work and sensitivity,” says Stubler.
Kopeshke’s compassion spreads beyond patients. Staff from 2 East say she “makes everyone’s day brighter with her infectious smile and incredibly positive attitude.” They also say Kopeshke is excellent in every way and inspires and motivates the staff of 2 East to work hard and stay positive.
“Even on the busiest of days, Linda always says she is happy to be here and help, and she never complains,” wrote staff in nominating Kopeshke as Fire Starter of the Month. “She always has the best attitude and makes sure to greet each person she sees with sincerity and gratitude. She is quick to respond whenever we need her and goes above and beyond to exceed our expectations. Nobody is more deserving of this award than Linda.”
In early civilizations, fire starters were the individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. As Fire Starter of the Month, Kopeshke received a Grundy County Chamber of Commerce gift certificate, a Morris Hospital logoed clothing item of her choice, a special “Fire Starter” lapel pin, and a designated parking spot for the month. With over 1,200 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employers in Grundy County and winner of the Advisory Board Company’s 2017 Workplace of the Year award.
