Hospital Staff Member Chosen as 2017 President’s Scholar

Radiology employee selected to implement sensory-friendly idea at Spectrum Health Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals.

BIG RAPIDS & REED CITY, Mich., April 24, 2017 – Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals are proud to announce Amy Leneski, radiology technician, was selected as the 2017 President’s Scholar.

Launched in 2016 by hospital president Mary Kay VanDriel, the President’s Scholar program empowers Spectrum Health employees who have passion and ideas to improve local health care. Sponsored by Mary Kay and Bob VanDriel, one recipient is selected annually to receive a professional mentor and $5,000 to focus on a research or improvement project for one year. The chosen scholars are also supported with one week of paid time off to focus on their project.

“We have excellent employees here at Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals, and I have found that the people closest to the patients often have the best ideas,” said Mary Kay VanDriel. “The annual President’s Scholar program allows our employees to take a larger part in driving change in our hospitals, and fulfilling Spectrum Health’s mission of improving the health of the communities we serve.”

Amy Leneski’s project will focus on improving sensory education, training and equipment for patients and families with autism or sensory sensitivities.

“Nationally, very few hospitals have the resources or staff training to work appropriately with patients affected by sensory issues,” Amy said. “I believe it is essential for our hospitals to work effectively and compassionately with these individuals.”

Emily Jones, a Spectrum Health social worker and 2016 President’s Scholar, focused her project on creating awareness of human trafficking among staff at Big Rapids and Reed City Hospitals.

Emily’s research and passion for the subject led to a seven-part presentation series held at Big Rapids Hospital, and broadcast to other Spectrum Health hospitals. The series educates physicians, nurses and staff on how health care providers can play a vital role in identifying human trafficking victims. The speaker series includes experts in the field who teach warning signs, provide appropriate resources, and help staff understand the hidden culture of human trafficking.

People are at the heart of everything we do, and the inspiration for our legacy of outstanding outcomes, innovation, strong community partnerships, philanthropy and transparency. Corewell Health is a not-for-profit health system that provides health care and coverage with an exceptional team of 60,000+ dedicated people—including more than 11,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and more than 15,000 nurses providing care and services in 21 hospitals, 300+ outpatient locations and several post-acute facilities—and Priority Health, a provider-sponsored health plan serving more than 1.3 million members. Through experience and collaboration, we are reimagining a better, more equitable model of health and wellness. For more information, visit corewellhealth.org.

Contact:
Patricia Ezdebski
Marketing and Public Relations
Office: 231.845.2350
Mobile: 231.301.4864
Email: patricia.ezdebski@corewellhealth.org

Danielle Wells
Media Relations Contact
Email: danielle.wells@spectrumhealth.org