MARQUETTE — U.P. Home Health & Hospice and U.P. Private Duty Services recently announced the organization’s 2020 Employees of the Year.

According to a press release, this annual award is based on peer nominations and specific criteria, which includes a commitment to quality patient care, teamwork, and professional development. Each of the recipients was presented with a monetary award and plaque in recognition of their outstanding service and is recognized on a plaque on display at the agency.

Jennifer Lahti, LPN, a 2-year veteran of the agency, was named the Direct Care Staff Employee of the Year. Jennifer has been described as a great nurse and all-around wonderful person, a joy around the office and always has a smile on her face. Her medical charting is always very thorough, and we are sure the patients are in good hands if Jennifer is helping to care for them. Jennifer is always willing go above and beyond in caring for patients and handles changes in her schedules and additions well. Jennifer is well-known in the office as a person that will always smile, even after a long day, and is always giving an encouraging word. She provides an excellent level of care with every patient.

Stacy Gray, a 5-year veteran of the U.P. Home Health & Hospice team was named Non-Direct Care Staff Employee of the Year.

“Stacy is consistently recognized by her peers as willing to go the extra mile in caring for our patients,” the release said. “Stacy is often complimented for her positive attitude and being a good resource for anybody in the office. Co-workers comment that Stacy is resourceful and always makes sure the direct care staff has the equipment they need, she’s great at anticipating patient needs, has a positive attitude, and is a team player, hard worker, and strong leader. Stacy is always willing to pick up shifts, take overtime, and switch weekends with her team, she is a great co-worker and does her job with pride and attention to detail. This is Stacy’s second time being chosen as the Non-Direct Care Staff Employee of the Year in her tenure with the agency. She was also chosen in 2016.

Dawn Berglund, an 8-year veteran of U.P. Private Duty Services, was named Private Duty Employee of the Year. Dawn is very caring and compassionate, the release said adding, “She is a reliable aide for our organization. Dawn is the mother of two and an avid ‘hockey mom.’ We are proud and honored to have Dawn represent our agency.”

“These amazing members of our team received multiple nominations from their peers,” said Jennie Garrett-Bureau, Executive Director/Administrator of U.P. Home Health &Hospice. “We are honored to have them on our team with their hard work, devotion to our patients, and fulfilling our organizations high standards of care. Their teamwork and commitment to their profession ensures a high level of excellence in patient care. We are proud that Jennifer, Stacy, and Dawn are part of our dynamic team.”

For more information on U.P. Home Health & Hospice and Private Duty Services, call 225-4545, 485-4545 or visit www.uphomehealth.org.