DeTar Healthcare System Honors 2024 Award Recipients: Melissa Braunholz, Dalia Smith, and Mary Claire Bradshaw
5/6/2025
DeTar Healthcare System proudly announces its 2024 employee honorees: Melissa Braunholz as Employee of the Year, Dalia Smith as Non-Clinical Director of the Year, and Mary Claire Bradshaw as Clinical Director of the Year. These three outstanding individuals exemplify DeTar’s mission of providing compassionate, high-quality care and service to our community.
Melissa Braunholz – Employee of the Year
Melissa Braunholz, a valued member of the Quality Department, has dedicated 20 years of service to DeTar. First joining in the 1990s through Home Health, she returned in 2004 at the request of leadership, bringing an exceptional skill set in data abstraction, analysis, and technology. Known as a master of Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, and Access, Melissa is a trusted consultant for departments across the hospital. She plays a crucial role in supporting quality improvement initiatives and tracking vital data for programs such as Stroke, Chest Pain, Cardiac Rehab, and NICU Designation. Admired for her patience, generosity, and community involvement, Melissa is not only a critical behind-the-scenes contributor but also a warm, giving presence within the hospital.
Dalia Smith – Non-Clinical Director of the Year
Dalia Smith’s journey at DeTar began three and a half years ago at the front desk in Primary Care. Through hard work and exceptional leadership, she advanced quickly, becoming a supervisor, then manager, and most recently, interim director of physician practices. She currently oversees six providers and 25 employees across DeTar Navarro and the DOD walk-in clinic, with plans to expand her leadership to include providers from the UHV clinic this August. Dalia is deeply respected by her peers and staff for her problem-solving skills, accessibility, and dedication. Known for her cheerful demeanor and tireless work ethic, she is often the first to arrive and the last to leave—leading with both heart and determination.
Mary Claire Bradshaw – Clinical Director of the Year
Mary Claire Bradshaw has been a cornerstone of DeTar Healthcare since June 1, 1993. As Manager of Women's Services, she has made a lasting impact on maternal and pediatric care in the region. Her leadership has driven improvements in patient outcomes, including first-time C-section rates and early intervention for high-risk OB patients. She fosters teamwork through monthly newsletters, team-building events, and consistent communication. In 2024, she led the charge for Nurses Week celebrations and helped secure an official proclamation from the City of Victoria. Mary Claire’s servant leadership and dedication to her staff make her a standout figure in DeTar’s clinical community.
Bernard Leger, CEO of DeTar Healthcare System, praised the recipients, stating: "Melissa, Dalia, and Mary Claire embody everything DeTar stands for—excellence, compassion, and commitment to service. Each of them brings unique strengths to our organization, and their leadership has had a tremendous impact on the care we provide every day. We are proud to recognize and celebrate their contributions."
DeTar Healthcare System is honored to have such devoted and inspiring individuals shaping the future of healthcare in the Crossroads community.
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