She's Got Spirit... How 'Bout You?

Clockwise, from top: Laughard and her nominators; with supervisor, Matt Nevling; Cathy's cake; with Administrator, Kathy Russell

Juniper Village Rehabilitation & Skilled Care is proud to introduce our latest Juniper Spirit Award winner, Cathy Laughard. Instead of trying to explain the many ways in which Cathy deserves this honor, below is an excerpt from a letter written by her supervisor, Matt Nevling. We think you'll see what makes Cathy so special to us all.

"I feel that no one embodies the qualities and hard work that the Juniper Spirit Award recognizes as well as Cathy. The goal of the reward is to identify those workers who not only do their basic jobs well, but go beyond them to make our campus a better place. I have never met anyone who fits those criteria more than Cathy Laughard.

Cathy has been one of our head cooks since before my time here. During her long career, she has endured many changes, embracing them all with a great attitude. She reports to work daily with a positive attitude and upbeat personality that spreads among the staff in the kitchen. She is a warm, welcome presence for new employees trying to find their place, as well as a dependable supervisor for those who are experienced in their positions.

Of all the positive qualities that Cathy possesses, the one that is most deserving of this award is her dedication to the residents. This dedication goes above and beyond what most are willing to do. Cathy frequently finds time in her day to visit with residents to discuss the upcoming meals. She works hard to customize dishes and go off-menu to provide our residents with foods that they want, no matter how particular the request. Her warm personality also puts new residents at ease and allows them to feel a level of control when their current situation may not normally allow such feelings.

Overall I cannot say enough about Cathy. I am thankful for her hard work and leadership and making even my own days here better."

From all of us at Brookline, congratulations, Cathy!