Nominee: Beth Alden
Nominator: Marci Schmatt
“I would like to recognize Beth Alden, MLS Supervisor DeGowin Blood Center TCT and Tissue Bank, for taking on seven validations this past month. Her outstanding dedication to her team and excellent organizational skills enable her to effectively manage all the changes within her department. Thank you for your commitment to change control and for ensuring a well-run department that benefits our patients and donors.”
How long have you been working in Pathology?
39 years.
What do you enjoy about working here?
The thing I enjoy the most is just how much you learn. There are so many new things going on all the time and it’s great to be a part of it. I also enjoy the people I work with. They are a great group.
What made you decide to work in Pathology?
I originally got a degree in zoology. Then I went to nursing school but realized I preferred to work more in the lab rather than doing direct patient contact.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
My biggest hobby now is gardening. I currently have a large flower garden. I am also a big into genealogy.
What is your dream vacation?
Spending time at home in my garden.
What is your favorite movie?
Pride and Prejudice.
If money was not a factor, what other profession would you choose?
Something to do with working with animals. I grew up on a farm and I enjoyed taking care of the animals.
Nominee: Michelle Smith
Nominator: Marci Schmatt
“I would like to commend Michelle Smith, Administrate Services Specialist DeGowin Blood Center, for her swift action following an audit. She recognized a gap in training and competency in her department. That very day of the discovery she updated the staff training documents and developed an annual competency quiz for the staff, which they took that same day. Thank you for your commitment to our staff and our patients/donors.”
How long have you been working in Pathology?
I have been in DeGowin for 40 years. It’s amazing to see how far the technology and the department has come. I remember getting the first personal computer here that used floppy disks.
What do you enjoy about working here?
I enjoy the people and the mission of helping patients. Being in the Blood Center you see the full circle of life helping both donors and sick patients. I see healthy family members donating stem cells for their sick family and patients coming in to get treatments.
What made you decide to work in Pathology?
There was a job opening available here and I thought it looked interesting.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Mostly traveling, but I also like watching the Hawkeyes and WMBA, reading, and spending time with my granddaughters.
What is your dream vacation?
Going to Sweden. My husband and I had a foreign exchange student from Stockholm stay with us when we were younger. It was such a great time, and she has come back to see us 4 times. We want to go to see her next time.
What is your favorite movie?
Mama Mia because I like the music.
If money was not a factor, what other profession would you choose?
I would love to be a travel photographer. I did freelance photography for a while and enjoyed it.