The MedStar Health Research Institute recognized Cynthia West, manager for the Phoenix Field Office, as the recipient of the 2018 Second Quarter SPIRIT of Excellence Award. Cynthia oversees the Phoenix, AZ, location of the Research Institute, working with local teams and communities on the long-running STRONG HEART study.
Cynthia was nominated by Celina Garza on behalf of Phoenix Field Office Staff: Tanya Molina, Sharon Taho, Diane Hollowbreast, Juanita Poorthunder, and Ditis Fallis. The nomination highlighted Cynthia’s dedication to the SPIRIT values in service to the participants and her associates. “Our participants are happy to visit our office because of the welcoming atmosphere Cynthia has created with her positive attitude -that is, in fact, contagious!” the nomination form shared.
Cynthia has connected the Field office to the community through outreach, service, and events. She has encouraged two associates to pursue training and certifications to offer community workshops. This connection to the community helps to strengthen the work that the team is completing.
According to her team, Cynthia has great communication skills and has built many relationships with communities and tribal leaders with her positive attitude, integrity, and respect. “Teamwork makes the dream work and Cynthia has certainly been an awesome Team Leader and an example to the rest of the staff,” said the nomination form.
The SPIRIT Award is given to recognize and reward one associate (management or non-management) each quarter, who excels in Service, Patient First, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork. Learn more on the SPIRIT StarPort page or contact MHRI-HR@medstar.net.
Phoenix Field Office team photo (from left to right)
- Tanya Molina – Tohono O’odham Nation
- Sharon Taho – Ft. McDowell Yavapai Nation/Hopi
- Diane Hollowbreast – Gila River Indian Community
- Celina Mahinalani Garza – Native Hawaiian
- Juanita Poorthunder – Navajo/Sioux
- Cynthia West – Wyandotte Nation of Oklahoma
- Bernardita Fallis – Filipino
- Not pictured: Darren Calhoun, PhD - Shoshone/Arapaho
