Forty years ago, things were very different for those working in cardiology. Three Community employees can tell you what’s changed since then — they were there.
Darrel Chavez, Daniel Lee, and Wanda Stokes-Coleman are all celebrating a remarkable milestone: 40 years of service in Community Health System’s cardiology service line. While their specialties lie in different areas, they all share a passion for heart care.
People and culture inspire loyalty to Community Health System
Chavez, an RN program coordinator, says it’s the people and the culture that have kept him at Community for four decades. “In all the different positions I've had, I've worked with incredible people, incredible leadership,” he said. “And it's just been a real honor to work with Community.”
Lee, a cardiology computer scientist, knows firsthand the way the department has grown, and shares that same loyalty to heart care at Community.
“Forty years ago, there were no electronic medical records. It was all done on paper chart,” he recalled. “The cardiology department has been home for me for 40 years — I haven't gone anywhere else.”
Stokes-Coleman’s role as a sonographer was inspired by her fascination for the heart.
“I fell in love with the heart when I was doing the electrophysiology of it. You know — the heartbeat and trying to learn all of the different things that it does and what it means when it does this or that,” she said. “And then when I started looking into ultrasound, I realized that you get to learn everything there is to know about the heart itself.”
All three say they have no plans to leave Community any time soon.
“You know, I've raised my kids through working at Community and friends that I've worked with still ask about them,” said Chavez. “It's just been a really good place to be.”
Recognizing employees from 5 to 55 years of service
The dedication and loyalty of employees who spend years here at Community are not only appreciated but celebrated. We recognize the milestones achieved by our employees —every five years — with either a pin or a plaque depending on their years of service. This year, we even have a 55-year honoree.
“I’m continually impressed and inspired by the team members who show up day after day for our patients and for each other,” said Craig Wagoner, president and CEO, Community Health System. “To spend decades serving our region is a remarkable milestone and something worth celebrating. It’s team members like Darrel, Daniel and Wanda that ensure we will be the place people continue to turn to for generations to come.”
If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Community Health System team, check out our careers page for your next great opportunity.
