2024 World Class
Employee of the Month
December 2024
Daniel Watson
Nurse Manager Acute Psych
Daniel Watson is a shining example of Kaweah Health's commitment to compassionate care and exceptional service. Daniel demonstrates the highest standards of nursing leadership, consistently going above and beyond to create a healing environment that prioritizes human connection and dignity.
His commitment extends far beyond traditional nursing responsibilities. Daniel volunteers his time to truly understand patients' stories, advocating for their needs with remarkable empathy. Whether driving hours to return a patient's belongings or personally ensuring patient comfort, he transforms potential moments of isolation into opportunities for meaningful care. His colleagues celebrate his positive energy, noting his ability to bring light to challenging healthcare environments.
Patients and staff alike recognize Daniel as a beacon of hope and support.
November 2024
Alma Cruse
LVN-Clinics Lead
Alma Cruse, LVN, demonstrates world-class care for our smallest and most vulnerable population with her outstanding contributions to Exeter Pediatrics. Alma serves as the cornerstone of the clinic, skillfully managing thousands of patient interactions while supporting both providers and staff members.
Her impact extends beyond daily operations — she has mentored four new medical assistants this year and creates a welcoming environment for students and staff seeking training. Alma's oversight of the children's vaccination program has earned high praise from state auditors, directly contributing to improved health outcomes across the county.
Recently, Alma has expanded her role to include quality improvement initiatives in the family practice clinic, where she manages compliance audits and investigates patient concerns. Her ability to anticipate potential risks while maintaining a positive attitude has made her an invaluable team member.
Alma's dedication, compassion, and leadership truly exemplify excellence in pediatric healthcare.
October 2024
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Victor Madrigal
Rehab Aide
Victor Madrigal is an exceptional example of Kaweah Health’s vision of world-class healthcare and excellent service. A dedicated rehab aide, Victor’s commitment to personalizing patient experiences is evident in his consistent use of preferred names, a practice that has deeply touched patients. Victor's proactive approach extends beyond his regular duties. On his breaks, he is often found repairing patients’ personal equipment, like walkers, ensuring their safety and comfort.
Colleagues praise Victor's supportive nature towards both patients and staff. Victor has been with Kaweah Health for 10 years, and he actively checks on new or floating staff, ensuring they receive necessary assistance. Victor prepares thoroughly for each patient interaction and maintains a clean, well-functioning environment.
September 2024
Hilda Jimenez
LVN-Clinics Lead
Hilda Jimenez exemplifies the qualities we value most at Kaweah Health: dedication, advocacy, initiative, and teamwork. She consistently gives 100 percent effort in her role. Beyond completing her tasks, Hilda leads by example, whether it’s through supporting the snack cart initiative or taking on additional responsibilities to enhance our workplace environment.
Hilda is never afraid to speak up for the well-being of both patients and staff, advocating passionately to ensure everyone is treated fairly and that their needs are met. Hilda’s dedication and proactive attitude make her an invaluable member of our team. She doesn’t just show up for her shift, she actively works to better our department and support her colleagues.
August 2024
Yajaira Madera Avonce
RN Acute Rehabilitation
Yajaira Madera Avonce is a shining example of Kaweah Health’s mission: Health is our passion, Excellence is our focus, Compassion is our promise. She demonstrates the highest standards of patient care, peer collaboration, and excellent teamwork every day. She volunteers her time to teach stroke class to patients and families at rehab to prevent future strokes, understand their co-morbidities, and addresses their emotional needs. This educational opportunity improves patient experience by allowing nursing staff to demonstrate heartfelt care, professional expertise, and to participate in a team approach to patient care at rehab.
Yajaira is frequently recognized by patients and their families for her excellent bedside manner and excellent service. Her coworkers love working with her and praise her for always being willing to help, and for stepping up to be charge nurse when needed.
July 2024
Sonia Sanchez
Retail Food Services Manager
Food & Nutrition Services-KHMC
Sonia Sanchez exemplifies Kaweah Health's mission and vision, showcasing unwavering dedication and compassion in her more than 18 years of working here. Known for her tireless work ethic, Sonia consistently prioritizes others' needs over her own, demonstrating leadership and excellence. She often works double shifts, assists with special events, and supports her team in various capacities, from staffing challenges to patient care.
Sonia's commitment extends beyond her duties — she assists patients directly, innovates within her role, and offers personal support to colleagues in need. Her infectious smile and positive attitude, even in challenging situations, inspire those around her. Sonia's dedication, compassion, and determined support for her team make her deserving of the Employee of the Month award. She truly embodies the spirit of Kaweah Health, making a significant impact on both coworkers and patients.
June 2024
Jennifer Faria
Clinical Education Program Coordinator
Clinical Inservice Education
Jennifer Faria has made an outstanding impact at Kaweah Health as the program coordinator for clinical education. Her expertise in the learning management system has been invaluable during a challenging transition period. Jennifer's dedication to supporting educators and improving patient outcomes is evident in her tireless efforts to find solutions and enhance the quality of educational offerings.
Known for her friendly demeanor and willingness to help, she coordinates continuing education units and assists her colleagues across the organization. Jennifer's positive attitude, problem-solving skills, and commitment to teamwork have made her an indispensable member of the clinical education team. Her contributions extend beyond her core responsibilities, as she often organizes celebrations and provides support to her colleagues, fostering a positive work environment. We are truly fortunate to have her on the Kaweah Health team.
May 2024
Amanda Munoz
Physical Therapist II
Home Health Agency
Amanda Munoz has been a physical therapist for Kaweah Health Home Health for several years. She is extraordinarily dependable and trustworthy. Her commitment to her colleagues and patients is evident daily. She oversees a large patient caseload serving patients in Visalia and Exeter. She also provides physical therapy care and regularly floats to acute care therapy to help on the weekends as well. Amanda is one of our go-to employees when we have any projects related to quality or performance improvement. Recently, she even assisted our hospice agency with developing treatment plans for pediatric hospice patients. Amanda is always willing to help out wherever it is needed because she truly holds the patients’ safety and well-being at the heart of everything she does. She clearly enjoys her work and truly deserves to be recognized for what she does.
April 2024
Madisson Emerson
CNA, Med-Surg
Madisson exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding healthcare professional, and we are fortunate to have her as a valued member of our team. Her dedication to her patients, her commitment to education, and her unwavering work ethic are a testament to her character and her passion for nursing.
Madisson's commitment to education extends beyond her own studies in the nursing program. She takes the time to provide comprehensive training to our new Certified Nursing Assistants. Her patience and willingness to explain procedures in detail are greatly appreciated by her trainees.
Madisson is a tireless worker who balances the demands of full-time employment and full-time nursing school with grace and determination. She is truly dedicated to her patients, and she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their comfort and well-being. Recognized by all of her peers, she is a dependable and highly respected member of the team.
March 2024
Michelle Hooper
RN, Post-anesthesia Care Unit
PACU Kaweah Health
Michelle Hooper is the perfect nominee for Employee of the Month. She is a huge asset to the surgical services team, as she is the only lead nurse in the post anesthesia care unit (PACU). Michelle has been with Kaweah Health since 2007 and on the PACU team for several years.
Michelle is a strong PACU nurse and invaluable resource, acting as preceptor to most incoming nurses. Her many years of experience and approachable demeanor make her a key player on her team. Michelle is always friendly, upbeat, and calm. Her confident personality is a reassuring presence in a sometimes stressful environment. She easily establishes strong working relationships, communicating efficiently to everyone she comes in contact with. She is also a strong patient and staff advocate, able to express needs professionally and timely. All of Michelle’s coworkers love working on her team.
February 2024
Carolyn Hainsworth
Clinic Business Office Lead
KH Medical Clinic - Ben Maddox
Carolyn Hainsworth is the definition of a Kaweah Health world-class employee. In her role as a patient access lead, she is positive and helpful every day, to everyone she interacts with. She consistently does her job at a very high level, finding great catches on reports, improving workflows, and working hard to resolve issues that come up. Carolyn is very dedicated to our patients, and she is one of the first friendly faces they see when they come through our doors. She is equally dedicated to her team, and all of her coworkers know they can count on her. It’s clear that Carolyn is someone who loves her job and demonstrates that gratitude every day. She truly deserves recognition for being such a wonderful member of the Kaweah Health team!
January 2024
Elli Santana
Licensed Vocational Nurse
M/S Renal-4North
Elli Santana is a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) who is recognized by her peers as a high achiever with exceptional work ethic. After starting as a certified nursing assistant, Elli returned to school and transitioned into an LVN role. In the fall of 2024, she is continuing her journey as she starts the Unitek Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Elli’s work ethic and commitment to her patients and colleagues have been noticed by her nursing team multiple times, but especially following a single instance where she received four employee-of-the-month nominations from her peers citing her composure, compassion, and integrity. Elli does not hesitate to respond if a patient or coworker needs help, regardless of her patient assignment.
In the words of her peers, Elli is passionate, loving, and confident. She is an amazing role model, and we are lucky to have her as a part of the Kaweah Health team.
