Our Employee of the Year! Jackie Ruggeri

 Jackie Ruggeri’s day changed completely when Littauer’s President and CEO, Laurence Kelly announced to over 100 of her colleagues that she was Nathan Littauer Hospital’s Employee of the Year. Jackie explains that moment as “Overwhelming.”

Jackie Ruggeri works in Littauer’s Department of Care Coordination as a Care Coordination Assistant. Jackie has been with Littauer for over 10 years. One of her colleagues stated, “Whether it is contacting insurance companies to payroll to copying a chart, she does it with grace and effortlessness.  When dealing with insurance companies on a daily basis she represents herself and the facility in an exceptionally professional manner.”  Known for her good attitude, her manager explained, “Jackie is the embodiment of a great attitude. She inspires everyone around her with her dedication and caring. She is very well organized, diligent in her work, easily reachable and always on time.” One of our nurses explained, “She is a quiet hero. She is in the trenches everyday; ensuring loose ends are tied up and safety nets are in place for our patients.”

Jackie receives the award from CEO, Laurence E. Kelly.

Mr. Kelly agreed noting, “Jackie certainly deserves our thanks and appreciation.”  Many people gathered at the celebration undoubtedly agreed as they clapped and cheered when her name was read.  Jackie upon learning of the award stated, “It is an honor to receive this award!”

“Jackie is truly someone who puts the patient first. Time-and-time again, she goes the extra mile to advocate for our patients in the complex world of medical care coverage.” stated Hospital Spokesperson Cheryl McGrattan.

Jackie explained, “I want patients to know that there are many people at Littauer working behind the scenes who are looking out for their best interests. We are really a patient-centered team and I have great respect for my colleagues. That is why being nominated by fellow team members means so much to me.”

 Jackie responded to the award by saying, “I am honored and I feel privileged to receive this award. I love my job, co-workers and our patients. NLH is a great place to work and everyone is very friendly. ”

 A Johnstown native, in her spare time Jackie enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter. She also enjoys watching her daughter play sports.   

 Honorable Mention for the Employee of the Year went to Lisa Langlois a Patient Access Representative and Danita Curtis, a Family Nurse Practitioner at Littauer’s Decker Drive Primary Care.

 The “Employee of the Year” is a function of the Nathan Littauer’s Goodwill Committee which promotes employees who embody the Hospital’s mission. The committee recognizes an employee per quarter and announces an Employee of the Year. With about 1000 employees the hospital receives many nominations every year. “The standard is set very high.” stated Laurence E. Kelly, Hospital President and CEO at the celebration. Adding, “This is the person we put on the pedestal.” Jackie received gift certificates, preferred parking, a plaque and a pizza party for her department, a photograph on the Hospital’s Hall of Fame.