Shining a Light on Compassion: CRMC Recognizes Outstanding Employees
CROSBY, Minn. – Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is proud to recognize a handful of employees for their outstanding compassion and commitment to patient care, innovation, and dedication to their community. The employees were nominated by their peers for annual awards and recipients were selected by a committee.
Leon Schefer Legacy Award
This award honors an employee who exemplifies inspiration, community spirit, approachability, relationship-building, and a commitment to excellence. Formally known as the I CARE Ambassador Award; the award has been renamed the Leon Schefer Legacy Award. Schefer, a former CRMC employee, tragically passed away in a car accident in March. He was a bright light in the organization—known for his warm greetings, kind heart, and the compassion he shared with everyone he met. His legacy of kindness will continue to inspire. Leon is an Honorary Recipient of the award. Bonnie Wermter, LPN, was selected as the first recipient of the Leon Schefer Legacy Award. Wermter works at the Breezy Point Clinic. A role model with a calm, positive attitude and deep knowledge, she consistently inspires others, often leading them to ask, “WWBD—What Would Bonnie Do?”
Rookie of the Year Award
New hires bring fresh perspectives, energy, and enthusiasm that reinvigorate and help drive innovation. The Rookie of the Year Award celebrates these valuable new team members and acknowledges their remarkable contributions to CRMC. Rookie is an acronym for Reliable, Open-minded, Optimistic, Knowledgeable, Innovative, and Engaged. This year’s recipient is Chaplain Eusebia “Chappy” Rios, CH, REV, MDIV.
Big Fish of the Year Award
Each month, employees are recognized with the Trophy Fish Award for being “caught” doing something exceptional—embodying CRMC’s values of patient experience, communication, teamwork, or compassion. At year’s end, one standout recipient is chosen by a committee for the prestigious Big Fish Award. This year, that honor goes to Samantha Henrichs, RN, a dedicated Behavioral Health nurse. Her outstanding care and commitment set her apart.
Mary Lou Houle Award
Mary Lou began her nursing career in 1959 at the original CRMC (Miner’s Hospital). She dedicated her career to patients, families and the greater Cuyuna Range community. She was renowned for her exceptional patient care and the level of dedication she demonstrated in every patient interaction. This year’s winner of this prestigious award is Wanda Barnes, RN, ASN. Wanda is a dedicated CRMC employee for over two decades. A Certified Oncology Nurse, she is a true team player, she inspires best practices, embraces change, and never hesitates to go beyond her role for patients.
Each of these awards reflects a shared commitment to excellence, compassion, and patient-centered care. Congratulations to the award recipients and the many nominees.
