Employees at St Joseph's have many stories to tell. Here is what one of our employees have to say—
"I have been working at St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center for approximately 27 years. I came as a graduate nurse and chose St. Joseph's because, as a student, I had such a wonderful experience here. I was excited to begin a career caring for very sick patients. Since St. Joseph's is a teaching facility, I felt this would be the best place for me to learn my profession. Additionally, the Mission of St. Joseph's is something that drew me to work here. I felt that I wanted to be part of an organization committed to caring for all of the sick, as well as the poor and under served.
I originally graduated with an Associates Degree and soon realized, as a nurse wanting to enhance her practice and move upward in her career, that I needed additional education. I pursued my BSN, which I received in 1984 and was very appreciative of the tuition reimbursement I received from the hospital.
I was fortunate to have wonderful professional mentors at St. Joseph's. These mentors included nurses, doctors, and ancillary staff. As I moved into management, I was privileged to work for visionary CEO's and CNO's.
I continued to grow and move throughout the Department of Nursing, gaining expertise in many different specialties. Over the years I had been offered positions in other institutions; however, I always found challenging opportunities at St. Joseph's.
I continued my education and received my MSN in 2001 and again was appreciative of the available tuition reimbursement. One very rewarding relationship I gained working at St. Joseph's was becoming a part of Healing the Children. This voluntary group brings doctors and nurses from around the country together for international medical missions.
I was invited to go on a mission about 10 years ago by our then CEO, Sr. Jane Frances Brady and have been going each year since. We provide surgery to children in countries where the availability of surgical care is extremely limited. These experiences have enhanced my professional life, but more than that, they have greatly enriched who I am as a person.
I have recruited many St. Joseph's staff members over the years and many of my family, including myself, have been treated here. The nursing care is excellent and has been recognized three times with the Magnet Award for Nursing Excellence.
I am proud to be a part of the St. Joseph's family where all employees are recognized for their achievements, in addition to working collaboratively to provide quality health care to our patients."
Judy Padula RN, BSN, MSN
Director of Surgical Services
St. Joseph's Regional Medical Center
