Wow Recognition

“I would like to recognize Brittany Newcomb! Brittany is wonderful! She is engaging as a receptionist and helped me immensely getting my ‘My Chart’ with Santiam Hospitals and Clinics set up. She’s great! I was having issues, and she said, ‘We can do that right now, it’s very quick.’ And it was! She’s wonderful!”

Isabella –  “Thank you for being so helpful and kind during my stay. The whole team was great but you brought a special light to my stay.”

Melissa –  “She was talking to a patient in the main intersection. I passed by her 2 times. She was being very patient with the patient. She was excellent in her patient care. Melissa means a lot to the Hospital.”

Fernando is dedicated to providing excellence every time he works in the SWIC space. His attention to detail shows a commitment to patient safety and infection prevention.

Micah’s unwavering commitment and loyalty to Santiam Hospital & Clinics exemplify the dedication that drives our organization forward. His consistent professionalism, reliability, and support for both patients and colleagues make a meaningful difference every day. We are grateful for Micah’s continued dedication and are proud to have him as part of the Santiam team.

Nick – Preceptor of the Year!

Dr. Vets – “Gratitude and Recognition for Your Leadership: I wanted to take a moment to personally recognize you and thank you for the remarkable leader you are. Watching your journey from ER Director to Chief Medical Officer has been truly inspiring. Throughout every role, you have remained grounded, compassionate, and deeply committed to both your staff and the community we serve. Your leadership during challenging times—whether navigating viruses, severe weather events, vaccination efforts, or everyday operational pressures—has made a meaningful difference for so many. What stands out most is the genuine care you show for people. You consistently advocate for your staff, lead with empathy, and remain present and engaged even in the most demanding situations. That kind of leadership builds trust and creates a culture where people feel supported, valued, and proud to be part of the team. I also appreciate the way you share pieces of your personal life, whether it’s stories or photos of your kids. Those moments remind us that behind the title is a person who values family, connection, and balance—and that authenticity makes your leadership even more impactful. Thank you for your dedication, your heart for this organization, and your unwavering commitment to both our patients and our people. Your leadership does not go unnoticed, and it is truly appreciated.”

Jessica – “Recognition & Appreciation: I would like to take a moment to recognize an exceptional team member who consistently goes above and beyond in their role as Chief Medical Officer Assistant. Your dedication, reliability, and ability to anticipate needs before they arise make a tremendous difference every day. You handle complex responsibilities with professionalism, grace, and a positive attitude, often behind the scenes, yet your impact is felt by leadership, staff, and ultimately our patients. Your willingness to step in, solve problems, and support others—no matter how busy or challenging the day may be—does not go unnoticed. The level of commitment and care you bring to your work sets a standard of excellence and truly strengthens our organization. Thank you for everything you do. Your hard work, compassion, and unwavering support are deeply appreciated.”

Ali – “She leads with kindness, humor, and empathy, and creates an environment where the entire team feels valued. She’s not only an amazing charge nurse, but also a genuine friend to many of us.”

“My appointment with Chris was an exceptional experience! He created a welcoming and affirming space that made me feel completely at ease. His warm presence and professionalism turned what could have been intimidating into something genuinely empowering.”

Kelsey – “I wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for the care I received from a new PA provider when my PCP was unavailable. The PA provider exceeded my expectations by being attentive, thorough, and genuinely concerned about my needs. Kelsey, willingness to go the extra mile made a significant difference in my experience, and I felt well cared for throughout the visit. Please extend my thanks for the excellent care and support.”

McKenna – “Heartfelt Recognition & Thanks – I would like to take a moment to personally recognize an exceptional provider and the amazing staff who consistently go above and beyond in caring for patients. This provider has not only taken outstanding care of my patient’s medical needs, but has also supported me personally throughout the entire process. Their compassion, attentiveness, and genuine presence made a difficult situation feel more manageable and reassuring. It truly means a great deal to work with someone who leads with empathy and keeps patient-centered care at the heart of everything they do. I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to the incredible staff who support this provider every day. Your kindness, responsiveness, and teamwork do not go unnoticed. You create an environment where patients and families feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. Thank you all for the dedication, empathy, and excellence you bring to your work each day. The care you provide makes a real difference, and it is deeply appreciated.”

“Alan truly cares about each and every patient! He takes the time to explain things clearly, makes sure patients feel comfortable asking questions, and handles each interaction with genuine warmth and patience.”

“When I was in the hospital 3 times for 7 nights Emily was my day shift RN half of the time. She took such good care of me. She was kind and patient. I appreciate her more then she knows.”

“I was in the hospital 3 times in 2 weeks. For 7 nights total. Sydnee was my night RN a lot of those nights. She was so amazing. The best part is she left me alone to sleep unless she needed something.”

Jillian – “She went above and beyond to help me and my kiddo and saved him from getting a second blood draw. I am so so appreciative of her efforts.”

Susan – “Taking on and mastering her role! Being helpful and supportive to all lab staff! Goes above and beyond and truly cares. Wants the best for staff and patients.”

“Sara is the most amazing person I have ever met. She is kind and caring. She is always attentive to her patients and coworkers.”

“Mary was so kind when helping me. She is very smart and has a great heart for people.”

“Jessica, one of our Care Coordinators, continuously goes the extra mile for patients and staff across multiple departments in the hospital. Recently, she dedicated over an hour to supporting a patient in crisis, carefully coordinating their care and restoring a sense of trust. She is the go-to trainer for many clinical workflows and is often sought out for her expertise and guidance. Jessica demonstrates true leadership through her reliability, impeccable organization, and calm presence in challenging situations. Her thoughtfulness, generosity, and consistent willingness to step in wherever needed make her an invaluable part of our hospital community and a shining example of excellence.”

Dr. Lee – “By being the kindest and best ER doctor ever.”

Melissa – “She went above and beyond finding medical equipment and delivering for my home.”

Debbie Groves = “Dedication, excellent service and kindness towards others, internal and external.”

Jane Claassen is always so nice and takes good care of all the staff and patients!

Darrel Dozler always has a positive attitude and keeps the place looking shiny.

“Since the moment Cole arrived, he treated me not just as a patient but as a person first. He approached every conversation with empathy, understanding, and brought a sense of calm to the situation.”

“Dr. Godfrey was so wonderful! Genuinely probably the best emergency visit we’ve had ever. She was really clear, listened well, made us feel comfortable, and was really thorough. Thank you so much!!!”

“Mama Linda is always going above and beyond to help others.”

Danny Freitag is always available to give a helping hand. Being at numerous outreach programs such as bringing ambulances to parades.

“Patti works so hard to make sure that our patients have the community resources they need, through countless phone calls, one-on-one conversations, and even house calls. She is an inspiration to all.”

Chantell Maine is recognized for her outstanding patient care.

“Katie really takes the time with you during your appointment. Shows a genuine care and concern about what you have to say. Always closes the loop and doesn’t leave anything you’re curious about unanswered.”

“Jamie is nominated for her professionalism, compassion, and unmatched skill. She took such good care of me during my IV placement and CT scan. She went above and beyond today!”

Nicole Montoya is recognized for her outstanding management and dedication to this hospital.

“Eli is very attentive and was very professional during my visit to the emergency department, he made sure things were good when apnea kicked in.”

Samantha Costello is recognized for going above and beyond routinely to help care for the patients needing transport home during the snow and for her consistent positive attitude even on the busiest of days.

“Bethany took the time to connect with me, getting to know me personally, making me feel truly cared for (other than a duty or obligation), going so far as to encourage me in some personal goals.”

“LeaAna brings work ethic and humor to the unit. Her smile is a breath of fresh air. We love you”

“Dr. Matthews has been such a good help. He takes time to address all my stuff. I know my appts run too long. He never lets it show. He is patient and kind.”

“Dr. Thorsett has not only replaced 4 joints since 2013, he has cared for me as a person. He spent time with me before surgery which brought peace to my being. He is a man of character.”

Terri Crandall is recognized for always going above and beyond. She gives of herself entirely. She also makes baked goods and treats and brings them in fresh out of the oven!

Raquel Pelayo is recognized for going above and beyond to make sure that surgical rooms are top notch and ready for patients. She does so well at getting the rooms ready that she is known as “Eagle Eye”. She is such a loving and caring person with a big heart.

Kamryn Risher was kind, helpful and very knowledgeable when helping a patient get set up with a new doctor. The patient is very grateful for her work and her choice of doctor was spot on.

Samantha Griego is recognized for her care and attention. She was able to help a patient track down a lab order that was not placed correctly and help the patient get their labs drawn in a timely manner. She was patient and kind.

Thomas Hollowell is being recognized by a patient for his outstanding patient care in the Emergency Department.

Dawn Capwell-Palmer is recognized by a patient for her outstanding leadership skills in the Emergency Department.

Jody Galbraith is recognized for her outstanding patient care and attention to detail. “She Was Engaging During the Pre-Surgical Prep and She Remembered Our Previous Conversation At A Prior Surgery More Than A Year Before, and Made Me Feel Like I Was Among Friends.”

Dr. Sean Steward is recognized by a patient for his outstanding patient care. “After 4 Months Of Symptoms, Dr. Steward Gave Us A Possible Diagnosis Of Meniere’s Disease. Dr. Steward DID Not Treat Just the Symptoms but Tried To Identify the Cause. Awesome Doctor!”

Micah Butt, PharmD, BCPS, is recognized by a patient for his outstanding work in the pharmacy.

Jennifer Ditlefsen is recognized by a patient for her outstanding phlebotomy skills in the laboratory. She makes a lab draw as quick and painless as it can be!