2025 Years of Service Recognition

Honoring the People Who Make Sparta Community Hospital Shine

We’ll start tonight by recognizing our 5-year honorees. These team members have found their rhythm, built strong foundations, and are just beginning to truly glow in their roles. Their energy, growth, and commitment light the way for what’s ahead.

Nori Ayers is such a valuable asset to our department and to SCH. She is always willing to help wherever and whenever she can. Our department has been going through a transitional period recently, and Nori has been a major contributor in helping things go as smoothly as possible. Thank you so much, Nori, for your hard work and dedication!

-Rob Wade

Jennifer Barbour joined our organization in February 2020 as a Community Outreach Coordinator, funded through a grant program. In March 2020, the COVID pandemic hit, halting the original plan to develop community partnerships. Although everyone was isolated for months, Jennifer made those connections happen through remote communication. Over time, Marketing was added to her responsibilities—a role in which she has truly shined. Her creativity and strategic insight have been instrumental to our growth. Whether pivoting a strategy at the eleventh hour or strengthening community partnerships, she consistently elevates our public image. A recent example is the development and rollout of our new branding logo. In recognition of your five years of outstanding service, we offer our sincerest gratitude. Thank you for your dedication, your ideas, and for being the heartbeat of our brand.

-Joann Emge

Cheers to five amazing years, Patti Eaton. Her dependability, positive energy, outstanding service, and dedication to the Cardiology Clinic staff and patients make all the difference.

-Tiara McWhorter

Congratulations to Lisa Ernsting on five years of service! Thank you for consistently ensuring our ambition doesn’t outpace our bank account. We appreciate you keeping us in the black, keeping the auditors at bay, and—most importantly—keeping your cool when we ask, “Are you sure those numbers are right?” Here’s to five years of impeccable balance.

-Joann Emge

Val Finley, congratulations on your five-year anniversary with our organization. This milestone reflects your dedication, consistency, and the compassion you bring to your role every day. Though soft spoken, your impact on patients is unmistakable. Your calm presence, attentive listening, and genuine care help patients feel safe, heard, and respected. Over the past five years, you have demonstrated professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to quality care—embodying what it means to lead with empathy and heart. Thank you for the difference you make in the lives of your patients and within our team.

-Angel Snover

We’re thrilled to celebrate Colleen Guy’s five years of dedicated service. Her attention to detail, expertise, and commitment to timely delivery have been invaluable. She plays an instrumental role in the Good Faith Estimate process and is skilled in coding various chart types. Beyond her technical excellence, her reliability and positive spirit have made a lasting impact on the Coding team. Thank you for everything you bring to the team, Colleen—we look forward to many more milestones together.

-Francie Baker

This year marks a significant milestone in Amanda House’s commitment to Sparta Community Hospital—her five-year anniversary. Amanda has been a CNA/Ward Clerk in the MedSurg Department since she began with SCH. She was recently promoted to Lead Ward Clerk, taking on responsibilities such as ordering supplies and training new staff. She has been flexible with her schedule to help fill open shifts, and her extensive knowledge is greatly appreciated. Thank you, Amanda, for your continued dedication to the MedSurg Department.

-Paula Cunningham

Celebrating five years of service for Brenda Jaimet. Brenda’s journey with SCH is marked by her strong work ethic, reliability, and the immense knowledge she brings and generously shares with her team. Her contributions have made a meaningful, lasting impact.

-Tiara McWhorter

Becca Jaimet is the person I hired without realizing how much I needed her—but I absolutely did. She joined us just before the COVID pandemic, and I am so grateful she did. During that first year, there were many times when it was just the two of us running our entire department, and we did it well. Over the past five years, HIM has undergone many changes, and Becca has stepped up each time. She is an invaluable asset to the HIM Department and to the SCH organization.

-Nola Stear

Al Johnson is well known for his kindness within this organization. He is deeply committed to Our Standards and shows true compassion for our patients. From the beginning, he has been an asset to this hospital and continues to grow in his role. He is as compassionate with his coworkers as he is with our patients. I am very pleased he is part of the Dietary team and look forward to many more years together. Congratulations on five years, Al. Job well done—we appreciate all your hard work.

-Jane Boice

Adam Meier has been with us for five years now, though it feels like just yesterday we brought him on. He has been a key player in many areas, including the rollout of pulmonary rehabilitation, the arrival of ventilators during COVID, and the setup and training for new respiratory equipment. Adam is a highly skilled respiratory therapist, and his patients frequently compliment his kindness and professionalism. With over 20 years of experience, he brings deep knowledge and is always ready to help wherever he can. We appreciate Adam for his continued commitment to SCH.

-Lori Clinton

We are proud to recognize Sheila Overturf’s five years of exceptional service. Her efficiency in outpatient coding, versatility, and commitment to excellence have greatly contributed to our success. Beyond her technical skills, her positive attitude and willingness to support others make her an invaluable part of our team. Thank you for your dedication, Sheila.

-Francie Baker

Heather Smith began as a part-time employee and has worked her way to full time. She is compassionate, loyal, and kind to both patients and coworkers. Her energy is contagious, and she has a way of making difficult situations manageable—even fun. Heather is a go-getter who always tackles the work that needs to be done. She is very much appreciated and is a true asset to the Dietary team. Congratulations on five years, Heather—we appreciate your hard work.

-Jane Boice

Today we proudly recognize Brian Taylor for five years of dedicated service. Brian has been a steady and dependable presence—someone who shows up, steps up, and quietly does the work that needs to be done. His commitment, integrity, and willingness to support patients and colleagues reflect the very best of who we are. Five years represent time, trust, and impact—and Brian has given all three generously. Thank you, Brian, for your continued service.

-Cheryl Adams

We are proud to recognize Tonya Thompson for her five years of dedicated service at SCH. Tonya plays a vital role in ensuring all deposits are balanced and ready for posting, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and reliability. Her willingness to help others and assist with balancing issues makes her an invaluable team member. Thank you, Tonya, for your professionalism and big heart.

-Michael Hayes

Five years already—time flies when you’re having fun while providing quality results! Angie Verschueren s a reliable and successful employee and has been a vital part of the Lab team. She is always willing to help and swap shifts when needed. Thank you, Angie, for five years of dedication.

-Christy Otten

Jane Boice has taken real ownership of the Dietary Department over the last 10 years. She has elevated the department in meal ordering and customer service and is always mindful of patient and employee preferences. Her dedication is deeply appreciated. Thank you for everything you do, Jane.

– Dale Worthington

Kelly Bova has been a vital member of the DI team for 10 years, leading our MRI Department with expertise and confidence. She performs excellent exams, provides great patient care, and is skilled in scheduling, pre-certification, and diagnosis. Outside of work, she lives on “the island” with her family and coaches volleyball for her daughter’s club team.

– Aaron Fiene

Ten years and countless wins. Kim Hanks—your loyalty, heart, and commitment to SVC have made a meaningful difference. We are proud to recognize your continued excellence and dedication.

– Tiara McWhorter

Congratulations on reaching 10 years of dedicated service in physical therapy, Kristy Malaway. Your commitment to patient care, compassion, and clinical excellence has made a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve. Over the past decade, your professionalism, teamwork, and passion for helping others regain strength and mobility have been truly inspiring. We are grateful for your continued dedication and proud to celebrate this important milestone.

– Amy Koudelka

Ten years of lab coats, quality results, and excellent patient care. Robin McFall is a valuable employee who primarily works weekend night shifts—which is greatly appreciated.

– Christy Otten

Now we honor those celebrating 15 years of service. Fifteen years reflects resilience and reliability. Through change and challenge, these team members have provided a steady glow—lighting the path for others through their consistency and dedication.

Cheers to 15 years! Jenifer Clark has been our dedicated night-shift tech for many, many years. She is passionate about her job, cares deeply for her patients, and is always eager to help. Thank you, Jenifer, for your commitment and service.

– Christy Otten

Today we celebrate an incredible milestone—15 years of dedicated service. Cyndy Easton’s commitment to excellence in inpatient coding and her passion for mentoring others have made a lasting impact on our team. Her knowledge and willingness to share it have helped create a culture of learning and collaboration. Thank you, Cyndy, for your professionalism and positive influence.

– Francie Baker

Congratulations to Ellen Hannigan on this significant milestone of 15 years. Ellen has served as a MedSurg nurse, House Supervisor, and now Float Nurse, supporting both MedSurg and the Emergency Department. She is attentive, knowledgeable, and always willing to help her fellow staff members. Thank you, Ellen, for all you do.

– Paula Cunningham

Congratulations to Mandie Lawhorn on 15 years of service. Mandie is hardworking, reliable, and has a memory like a steel trap—she remembers every detail of every change. Patients love her and often ask for her by name. She came from pediatrics and quickly became exceptional in family practice as well. She has been an amazing asset to the organization and has lived through everything here—including the building demolition and “dust story,” which she tells best. Thank you, Mandie, for your dedication.

– Angel Snover

We now recognize our 20-year honorees. Two decades of service is an incredible achievement. These individuals have helped light the way for our organization, sharing their knowledge, leadership, and heart through years of change and growth.

For two decades, Lori has defined what it means to lead with excellence. Her work ethic is legendary—she is often the first person here and the last to leave, and she never asks of her staff anything she isn’t willing to do herself. Lori’s clinical knowledge remains a gold standard within these walls. Even as a Director, she has never lost touch with the bedside, ensuring that our nursing practice is grounded in both expertise and empathy. This expertise is matched only by her deep sense of accountability. Lori doesn’t just manage a department; she owns every outcome, standing by her team and pushing all of us to take pride in our roles.Perhaps her greatest legacy is her unwavering commitment to performance improvement. Lori does not settle for “good enough.” She has spent 20 years asking how we can be safer, more efficient, and more
compassionate. Because of her vision and leadership, our hospital is a better place—for patients to heal and for nurses to work. Lori, thank you for twenty years of dedication, brilliance, and heart. We are a stronger institution because of you.

– Joann Emge

Jo Coke brings an incredible wealth of knowledge to her role. Her background spans Quality Health Clinics, Clinic Management, Care Coordination, and the Patient-Centered Medical Home model. Now serving as our Quality Coordinator, Jo excels in understanding systems, analyzing data, and producing reports that strengthen our Quality and Risk programs. She manages complaints, PHPs, and improvement meetings—and always champions patient care from behind the scenes.

– Sue Odle

Sharon Conway has seen many changes in the Physical Therapy/Patient Access Department over her 20 years here, and her knowledge is irreplaceable. She welcomes everyone with a smile and a warm “Howdy! How are ya?” When not here, she enjoys her kids, grandkids, and many adventures. Congratulations on your 20 years, Sharon—even if your cake said Happy Birthday!

– Hali Garrett

Neal Haertling has dedicated 20 years of service to SCH, growing into an expert in all things related to the Plant. He ensures our facilities run smoothly and meet regulatory requirements. He has overseen countless updates to our buildings, helping us stay modern and efficient. Thank you, Neal, for your long-standing service and commitment.

– Dale Worthington

Tina Holt is our faithful night owl in Patient Access. Although many don’t see her in person often, her work is noticed daily. She is the most chipper, chatty person first thing in the morning, and outside of work, she is incredibly crafty—keeping our department festive year-round. Thank you, Tina, for your 20 years of dedication.

– Hali Garrett

Congratulations to Mary Jaja on 20 years of service. As a long-time MedSurg nurse who has also floated to the Emergency Department, Mary brings positivity, skill, and warmth to every shift. Her caring nature and extensive experience make her contributions deeply valued.

– Paula Cunningham

Congratulations, Kevin Leemon, on this well-deserved 20-year service award. Your dedication, reliability, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on our team. Over the years, you’ve shared not only your expertise but also your willingness to support others and lead by example. We are grateful for your commitment and the pride you take in your work, and we truly appreciate everything you do. And of course, the fitness members always look forward to reading your joke of the day. Thank you for being such a valued part of our organization, Kevin.

– Amy Kouldelka

In grateful recognition of 20 years of faithful service to Sparta Community Hospital At-Home Health Care—five years as PRN and 20 years full-time—we celebrate Angie Nordmeyer for a calling lived out with generosity, compassion, and grace. For two decades, she has brought comfort, dignity, and hope to patients, families, and coworkers, offering care that extends far beyond job titles or schedules. Her servant’s heart is evident in the many ways she gives of herself—volunteering for events like the Healthy Holiday Hustle, stepping in wherever help is needed, and quietly supporting others without seeking recognition. The stories from a lifetime in home care are countless—unbelievable, unrepeatable, and definitely not found in any policy manual—yet through every moment, Angie has remained steady, compassionate, and fully committed to doing what is right for those we serve. Her willingness to help, her steady presence, and her purpose-driven approach to care have strengthened this agency and touched countless lives, leaving a meaningful impact on both those she serves and the team she inspires. We extend heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for her support, her dedication, and the difference she continues to make every day.

– Cheryl Adams

Next, we celebrate 25 years of service. A quarter century with one organization speaks to loyalty, passion, and purpose. These honorees have built a glow that endures, leaving a lasting impact on our culture and our community.

Congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone of 25 years of service, Larry Bernardoni. Your long-standing dedication, professionalism, and commitment have played a vital role in the success of our organization. Over the years, your experience, consistency, and strong work ethic have set a standard for excellence and inspired those around you. We are deeply grateful for your contributions and loyalty, and we thank you for 25 years of outstanding service—and for your ability to always make us laugh!

– Amy Kouldelka

Congratulations to Missy Castens on her 25-year anniversary. As the most senior nurse in MedSurg, she has trained generations of nurses and holds a wealth of departmental knowledge. Years ago, she switched to nights to help fill a vacancy—and has been a dependable, reliable night-shift nurse ever since. Thank you, Missy, for your long-standing dedication.

– Paula Cunningham

We now come to a truly remarkable milestone—35 years of service. Three and a half decades represents a legacy that shines brightly, shaped by leadership, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to care.

It is a tremendous honor to recognize Susan Gutjahr for 35 years of dedicated service to our organization. For over three decades, she has been the foundation of our health information management, guiding us through immense change and protecting the integrity of our most vital data. From the very beginning, Susan led the Medical Records Department, overseeing coding and reimbursement—critical functions that ensured the financial health and stability of our organization. As technology evolved, so did her role, and one of her most significant accomplishments has been helping develop our electronic medical record into the functional, robust platform we rely on every day. Today, her leadership continues to grow as she oversees our entire IT Department and serves as our indispensable Compliance Officer, navigating complex regulations and keeping our organization safe and accountable. Susan’s expertise, adaptability, and unwavering commitment have shaped our organization into what it is today. Congratulations, Susan, on 35 remarkable years of invaluable contributions.

– Joann Emge

Janice Knop has been a valued member of SCH for 35 years—starting all the way back in 1990, before her current supervisor was even born. In that time, she has seen hospital accounting transform through multiple systems, processes, regulations, and technologies, adapting to every change with the same steady reliability she brings to her work each day. From paying vendors to processing payroll, from paper-based systems to today’s complex digital platforms, Janice has done it all. Her experience and consistency have anchored our financial operations through decades of change. Congratulations on 35 incredible years, Janice, and thank you for ensuring our paychecks always arrive on time.

– Aaron Leggett

In a world that is constantly moving and changing, there is something profoundly sacred about someone who chooses to stay, and in 1990, Dr. Mark Preuss arrived in Steeleville not just to take a job, but to build a life. As the very first employed physician in our organization, he didn’t just join a clinic—he helped lay the foundation for the care this community relies on today. Many of us know Dr. Preuss for his trademark calm; in the high-stakes world of medicine, he has remained the “steady hand” for 35 years. He is the definition of mild-mannered, not because he lacks intensity, but because he possesses the quiet strength required to truly listen. In his exam room, you aren’t just a chart or diagnosis, and his genuine care is not simply “bedside manner”—it is a reflection of his character. In a small town, a family physician is more than a doctor; they are a witness to the passage of time, and over the last three and a half decades, Dr. Preuss has become woven into the fabric of our families, caring for second and third generations—the children and grandchildren of those he first treated in 1990. That kind of continuity is rare in modern medicine and is a true gift to our community. Doctor, you moved here to care for us, and in doing so, you became one of us; you have modeled what it means to lead with humility and serve with heart. As we celebrate these 35 years, we don’t just thank you for your medical expertise—we thank you for your friendship, your patience, and your unwavering commitment to our organization.

– Joann Emge

Finally, we recognize our 45 year honorees. This is more than a milestone—it’s a lifetime of service. These individuals are the heart of our history, and their glow continues to inspire every generation that follows.

I have had the honor of working with Cindy McCauley for the past four and a half years, so I can’t speak to the FOURTY PLUS before that, but what I can say is WOW.  Cindy is so devoted to helping people.  She genuinely cares about trying to make things better for everyone around her, anyone calling her, people behind the scenes that don’t even know she is working to help them,,, everyone.  Being here, with Sparta, for “a while now” ,,,, she has worked so many different departments and positions, and has such a wealth of knowledge of the people, the organization, the processes, EVERYTHING.  Cindy’s journey is a testament to loyalty and hard work and “I am” / ”We should all be” truly grateful for everything she has done, is doing, and will continue to do as long as we can keep her here.  Thank you Cindy.

– Travis Boyd

To all our incredible team members celebrating these work anniversaries, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude. You are the heart and soul of our hospital, and we’re truly fortunate to have you as part of our team. Here’s to many more years of success and teamwork together!