Saint Joseph London recognized its Physician of the Year, Advanced Practice Provider of the Year, Employee of the Year, and Leader of the Year during a hospital celebration held on March 11, according to an April 29 announcement.
The awards highlight individuals who demonstrate commitment to patient care and embody Saint Joseph Health’s core values. Sandeep Valluri, MD, was named Physician of the Year after being nominated by colleagues for his leadership during a tornado outbreak. “During the night of the tornado outbreak, Dr. Valluri showed professionalism and leadership. He remained calm, organized, and present at the moment. He provided excellent patient care by ensuring every patient felt seen and supported during the outbreak; his performance was dedicated and committed to helping the patients and making sure they had the right treatment and care,” said his nominator. “He was a great leader–compassionate and committed– in every deed, keeping the patients safe, supported and cared for during an incredibly challenging night.”
Amerah Rutherford received Advanced Practice Provider of the Year honors for her dedication in emergency care. Her nominator said: “It’s hard to choose an example of Amerah’s kindness because she is always the same. Whether it’s to give hope to the sick, ice chips, lend a listening ear to those who love to talk, find pillows–whatever a patient needs, she makes sure it’s done and she does not think she is above any of us here in the ER. She doesn’t see herself as a PA, she sees herself as one of us: a patient care provider, advocate, ER team member and a friend.”
Gladys Cornn was recognized as Employee of the Year for her four decades with Saint Joseph London supporting various departments. “Gladys has served our system for 41 years. She is an example of commitment and loyalty to her profession… Gladys is always smiling and approachable; staff trust her to reach out…in their time of need,” said her nominator.
Robin Tumpak earned Leader of the Year honors for achievements such as maintaining high Leapfrog safety grades: “Saint Joseph London’s “A” Leapfrog letter grade…demonstrate Robin’s pursuit of excellence…Her ability to achieve organizational metrics…underscores her dedication,” according to her nominator.
Other award recipients across Saint Joseph Health facilities were also announced from locations including Lexington; Richmond; Louisville; Charlestown; Woodbury; Greenville; Palestine; Berea; Mount Sterling; Salt Lick; Bardstown; Versailles;
and others.
Saint Joseph Health operates over 100 locations in Kentucky with hospitals such as Flaget Memorial Hospital,
Saint Joseph Berea,
Saint Joseph East,
Saint Joseph Hospital,
Saint Joseph Jessamine,
Saint Joseph London,
and more serving patients statewide.
Founded in 1926,
the current Saint Joseph London facility opened in 2010 with all private rooms on its campus overlooking gardens.
The hospital serves southeastern Kentucky counties including Clay,
Laurel,
Jackson,
Whitley,
Knox,and Pulaski.
