Stewart Memorial Honors Klay Birkey as First Recipient of the Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award

Stewart Memorial Community Hospital is proud to announce Klay Birkey, an Emergency Room (ER) Technician, as the first recipient of the Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award. This recognition celebrates employees who exemplify Stewart Memorial’s core values and demonstrate significant growth throughout their time with the organization.

Klay’s journey with Stewart Memorial began in October 2016. “I had just recently moved back from Ankeny, and I saw there was an opening here,” Klay shared. “I was born here, and we always doctored here, so it felt great to work at a smaller community hospital but still get quality experience.” Having known the doctors and providers at Stewart Memorial for years, Klay felt it was a perfect fit.

Starting as a unit secretary, Klay’s drive for growth led to her transition into the Emergency Room. “About a year in, the ER manager at the time asked me to apply for an ER tech opening. I did, and I’ve been in the ER since,” she said. “The biggest change for me was when we built a new ER a couple of years ago. It’s been an incredible transformation.” In addition to her work in the ER, Klay expanded her skill set by becoming a BLS (Basic Life Support) instructor about four years ago, further enhancing her contributions to her team and community.

Klay’s commitment to compassionate care is evident in her everyday work. “I’ve always wanted to be a nurse and take care of people. I strive every day to make a difference, especially when patients are at their worst,” Klay explained. “When they come into the ER, it’s usually the worst day of their week, and it’s rewarding to see how your care can make their day better.”

Compassion, Klay says, is what resonates with her the most. “I’ve been here long enough that patients will recognize me, and it’s really meaningful when they thank you for helping them or say you made their stay so much better,” Klay shared. “I always strive to help people feel better, even in the smallest ways.”

Reflecting on the progress of the ER, Klay proudly noted, “I’m especially proud of the new building and all the changes in the ER. We now have expanded services, including the outpatient part, and it’s amazing to see the difference in care we can provide to our community.”

“We are incredibly proud to recognize Klay for her exceptional contributions and the remarkable growth she has demonstrated throughout her journey at Stewart Memorial,” said Linn Block, CEO at Stewart Memorial. “Her dedication, commitment to excellence, and continuous professional development are a true reflection of the values that define our organization. Klay’s passion for patient care and her embodiment of our core values makes her a standout member of our team, and her positive impact is felt by both our patients and her colleagues.”

The Path to Excellence Employee Recognition Award honors individuals who demonstrate leadership, excellence, dedication to Stewart Memorial’s mission, and growth within the organization. Klay’s achievement reflects the best of Stewart Memorial’s culture, her personal development, and our commitment to providing top-quality care to the community.