On-The-Move People

St. Luke Health Services’ Diane Garcia is a recipient of a 2016 LeadingAge New York Long Term Care Employee of Distinction Award.

Garcia, who has been with St. Luke for twenty-six years, is the Assistant Director of Activities at the healthcare residence.

Ami Schnauber, Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy for LeadingAge NY, presented the award to Ms. Garcia during a reception held at St. Luke in her honor.

The Employee of Distinction Award was established to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of front line staff working in long-term care settings across New York State.

Ms. Schnauber noted, “The award’s purpose is to provide aging services providers with the opportunity to recognize caregivers who demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond to improve the lives of frail elderly New Yorkers – those who bring a special compassion and personal commitment to their job each and every day. Diane has certainly demonstrated these characteristics both to her work and in her community, and we are proud to recognize her considerable contributions."

The Employee of Distinction award is presented annually by LeadingAgeNY to worthy recipients across the State and was commemorated in a resolution passed earlier this year by the New York State Legislature.

Those on hand to congratulate Garcia included her family, friends, St. Luke residents and fellow staff members. Representatives from the offices of New York State Senator Patty Ritchie and Assemblyman William Barclay were also on hand to congratulate Garcia and thank her for her dedicated service and care of St. Luke residents.

St. Luke’s CEO and Administrator Terrence Gorman described Garcia’s years of service and work ethic as contributing factors leading to her nomination and ultimately, for her selection for this award. “When you think of Diane, you think of a dynamic and creative individual, dedicated to improving the wellbeing of our residents and those in our community each and every day,” said Gorman.

Donna Rose, Director of Activities noted, “This recognition is well earned and we are fortunate to have Diane, and excited we can celebrate this achievement with her among residents, volunteers, family and friends. One common theme that is repeated when describing Diane is her willingness to go above and beyond to make everyday a better day for our staff and residents. ”