Nominee: Farah El-Zein
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Farah demonstrates excellent leadership, is approachable, understanding, organized, and a great guide.”
How long have you been working in Pathology?
Since January 1993 at the DeGowin Blood Bank.
What do you enjoy about working here?
I enjoy the positive environment and the sense of teamwork among the Blood Bank techs during challenging times.
What made you decide to become a lab professional?
I volunteered in a Blood Bank as a freshman in college and saw the vital role that the Blood Bank plays in crisis and in patient care.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Spending time with family/friends and taking walks.
What is your dream vacation?
Visiting Lebanon
What is your favorite movie?
The Godfather
If money was not a factor, what other profession would you choose?
A seamstress
Nominee: Michael Gingerich
Nominated by: Anonymous
"Stepping up as a team player and going above and beyond; he came in to train me during the early morning hours to ensure I had adequate support and was comfortable within my new position, in addition to that, he still managed to personally cover both second and third shift when two of the other phlebotomists called in short notice. Thanks Michael!"
How long have you been working in Pathology?
I've been working in Pathology for 13 years. My journey began at Pomerantz, then I moved to Mercy Hospital before transitioning to Iowa River Landing. After that, I returned to Mercy, and eventually, I made the transition to UI Health Care. It's been an exciting and rewarding ride!
What do you enjoy about working here?
What I truly enjoy is the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life. Whether they're young or old, I’m grateful to be in a position where I can help ensure they have the best possible experience during their time here.
What made you decide to pursue Pathology?
I grew up frequently in and out of hospitals and being in this environment always felt like home to me. The familiarity of it and the chance to make a difference in people’s lives really inspired me to pursue a career in this field.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work, I play the piano and compose cinematic music on my computer. It’s a creative outlet for me and a way to unwind.
What is your dream vacation?
I'd love to visit Tokyo and explore the city at night with my friends.
What is your favorite movie?
The Ninth Gate
If money was not a factor, what other profession would you choose?
I would love to be an adventure photographer.
Nominee: Evelyn Irving
Nominated by: Cassie Hartgrave
“Evelyn did a great job helping me, Amber, and Amy understand all the things that they do for the iMonnet temp tracking in Microbiology. I appreciate all of the hard work that Evelyn has done to maintain the system and continued support on this important QA activity.”
How long have you been working in Pathology?
Nearly ten years.
What do you enjoy about working here?
I love being able to see weird and unique things. I also like teaching and training students and residents. Our group is tight knit, and it is hard to imagine going someplace else.
What made you decide to pursue Pathology?
I enjoyed the lab when I was an undergrad. I started off in a small hospital lab and joined a program after learning about medical lab technicians/scientists. Then a position opened up and I came here.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy tech, so I will tinker with old tech and build new stuff. I also enjoy reading books.
What is your dream vacation?
I would love to have a culinary tour of Europe. I used to work as a line cook and have some experience with French cooking. I would love to go and try everything including the unique stuff.
What is your favorite movie?
I love Jurassic Park.
If money was not a factor, what other profession would you choose?
I would like to be a professor of microbial ecology.