(Crandon, WI) This year, more than 200 employees from Sacred Heart-Saint Mary’s Hospitals (SHSMH) and Ministry Medical Group (MMG) were nominated for the Annual Circle of Excellence Award. Each spring, nominations are solicited from physicians, staff and leadership throughout the Ministry Health Care system for excellence by an individual or team in one of the Ministry Health Care’s five Long Term Objectives.

The Circle of Excellence Awards are a tangible way to acknowledge and recognize employees and volunteers who stand out for their efforts to support and live the mission, values and vision of Ministry Health Care through a project or initiative – exceeding the expectations of their daily work.

All nominees were recognized by hospital President, Monica Hilt at an awards ceremony held on September 15 at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Rhinelander. “The selection committee had a very tough decision to make this year, there were so many great efforts demonstrated by our employees and volunteers,” said Hilt. “Those nominated represent us all in our ongoing efforts to be the best.”

Special recognition was given to a group of individuals involved with the Crandon incident. On October 7, 2007 the Crandon community was rocked by the multiple shooting deaths of seven young people with critical injuries to another. No one in the community was left untouched by this horrific incident. Ministry physicians and staff responded immediately and have continued to provide support to this community that is still mourning the loss. Many of the staff knew the victims and their families. Yet, they did their jobs and kept patients first putting aside their own sorrow. The Circle of Excellence review committee felt this special group that crossed hospital, clinic and medical disciplines deserved special recognition.