UR Medicine Thompson Health has recognized five of its associates for outstanding service during the first quarter of 2025, highlighting their dedication to patients, families, and coworkers.
The recipients of the Service Excellence Award were selected by the health system’s Service Excellence Team (SET), which reviews praise submitted by leaders across the organization. Compliments from patients, families, and fellow staff members played a central role in identifying honorees who exemplify compassion and commitment.
Among those honored was Certified Nursing Assistant Melissa Thran of the M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center. A resident of Clifton Springs, Thran was commended for making sure all 40 residents on her unit received Christmas stockings. A colleague noted, “Melissa looks at the residents as an extension of her family and treats them all as if they were her loved ones.”
On hospital floor 3 West, Patient Care Technician Arlana Rodriguez was recognized for comforting a patient during a difficult night. “Arlana’s bubbly personality and unwavering kindness make a meaningful difference for our patients daily,” wrote a coworker. Rodriguez lives in Rochester.
Also honored from 3 West was Patient Care Technician Leah Galens of Dundee, praised by a patient’s family member for ensuring a high standard of care: “We appreciated the energy and willingness to make sure he was well taken care of.”
From Interventional Radiology, Patient Care Technician Kali Ham was acknowledged for identifying a potential safety issue while assisting in the Birthing Center. She noticed an expired car seat sticker, preventing what could have been a serious risk. “She saved the day and kept baby safe,” a colleague shared. Ham lives in Canandaigua.
M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center’s Recreational Therapy Manager Tawny Kelledy, also of Canandaigua, was recognized for organizing holiday meals and a tree lighting ceremony. “Tawny dedicates all her energy, compassion, and genuine care to her residents,” said a coworker.
Award recipients receive reward points for Thompson’s online shopping platform and are featured in CEO presentations, the internal newsletter, and on the organization’s intranet.