DeTar Healthcare System Honors Legacy of Service at Annual Employee Awards Banquet
11/27/2024
VICTORIA, TX – DeTar Healthcare System celebrated the heart and soul of its organization – its dedicated employees – at the Annual Employee Service Awards Banquet held earlier this month on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Victoria Country Club. The event, which recognized employees for their years of service, spotlighted individuals who have dedicated up to 35 years and beyond to enhancing the lives of patients and contributing to the community’s well-being.
The evening was emceed by DeTar Healthcare System's CEO, Bernard Leger, who introduced a new tradition this year – the prestigious Daisy Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor was presented to Maggie Barefield, R.N., assistant chief nursing officer (ACNO), in recognition of her lifetime of extraordinary service, leadership, and mentorship.
“Maggie’s career exemplifies what it means to dedicate your life to patient care and to the people around you. Her compassion and leadership have shaped not only the culture at DeTar, but also the future of nursing,” said Bernard Leger. "This new tradition helps us celebrate the exceptional service that shapes the core of our healthcare system."
The Daisy Lifetime Achievement Award honors healthcare professionals who have gone above and beyond in their careers, demonstrating outstanding contributions to patient care and the advancement of nursing practices. Maggie Barefield, who joined DeTar in 1979 as a newly graduated LVN, quickly became known for her clinical excellence, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to her patients. Over the decades, she transitioned through various roles—from pediatrics to adult ICU, then house supervisor and head nurse—before assuming leadership positions as director of rehabilitation services and assistant director of nursing.
In each role, Maggie's transformative leadership and commitment to mentoring her colleagues created a lasting impact. Her focus on compassionate care and fostering a collaborative work environment led to lower staff turnover and higher patient satisfaction, said Leger.
“Her journey is a testament to the heart of healthcare,” said Leger. “Maggie has dedicated decades to ensuring not only the highest standards of care, but also the next generation of nurses and healthcare professionals.”.
In addition to the Daisy Award, long-tenured employees were celebrated for their years of service milestones. DeTar Healthcare System recognizes those who have reached significant anniversaries—5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and even 35 years of service. For the most dedicated, DeTar introduced the “35 Years Club,” a special group honoring those whose loyalty and service have shaped the organization for decades.
A standout in the crowd was Dolores Perez, a housekeeper at DeTar, who was honored for her remarkable 50 years of service. Dolores began her career in 1974 as a dietary aid, working her way up through the ranks in various roles, including dietary supervisor after graduating from Victoria College’s supervisor training program and later, housekeeping supervisor. Her tireless work ethic and commitment to excellence have made her a beloved figure at DeTar.
DeTar Healthcare System extends its deepest gratitude to all its employees for their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. The Annual Employee Service Awards Banquet is one of many ways DeTar celebrates the dedicated individuals who uphold the organization’s values of excellence, compassion, and integrity every day.
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