Pittsburgh, January 14, 2014 -- Jonet Vacsulka, RN, Gamma Knife nurse coordinator, was recently named recipient of UPMC’s 2013 Dignity and Respect Champion Award for her efforts in building and sustaining a work environment in which everyone feels included, valued and appreciated.
The award recognizes and honors UPMC staff for their commitment to the UPMC core value of dignity and respect, creating the best experience for patients, families and employees. In a letter to Jonet announcing the award, John Innocenti, UPMC Presbyterian/Shadyside president, noted Jonet’s “leadership is recognized and appreciated as it demonstrates your personal commitment to creating a positive UPMC experience that welcomes and encourages differences.”
Jonet was nominated for the award by coworker Nancy Bastine, RN, who called Jonet “a shining star in a not-so-tolerant world.”
“We have a range of ethnic and religious backgrounds in our department,” Denise wrote in her nomination letter. “We have coworkers from India, Japan, China and Russia. Many of our patients are also from around the world and the United States, many with language and customs that we must understand to give the appropriate care.
“Jonet embraces all of these cultures and guides her staff to do the same. She encourages patience with the language barrier and jumps in to assist with these barriers. She is a constant presence in our department. We all look up to her and respect her.”
Jonet will receive her award at a special “Champions” breakfast, scheduled for January 23 at the UPMC Cumberland Woods Village Conference Center on the UPMC Pasavant campus in Allison Park, PA.
Congratulations Jonet!