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Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Recognizes Outstanding Contributions at the 2024 iCare Impact Awards

by Communications and Engagement
These prestigious awards recognize the outstanding individuals and teams whose dedication and initiatives embody TBRHSC’s mission, vision, values and strategic goals.
These prestigious awards recognize the outstanding individuals and teams whose dedication and initiatives embody TBRHSC’s mission, vision, values and strategic goals.

February marked a celebration of excellence at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) as the Hospital honoured the recipients of the 2024 iCare Impact Awards, a peer-to-peer recognition program. These prestigious awards recognize the outstanding individuals and teams whose dedication and initiatives embody TBRHSC’s mission, vision, values and strategic goals. Each recipient has demonstrated exceptional commitment to delivering high-quality care and fostering a positive, inclusive environment for both patients and staff.

The Strategy in Action Award, selected by TBRHSC’s Senior Leadership Council and endorsed by the Board of Directors, is awarded to those who have contributed to strategic projects or initiatives that make an impact on the patient and staff experience. This year the award was presented to Roaming Education for Staff (R.E.F.S.) for their exceptional collaboration and dedication to improving staff knowledge and skills directly, which contributed to a better patient experience. The R.E.F.S. program team’s ability to evolve and meet the changing needs of staff and learners is a testament to its success in delivering impactful education.

The Vision Award, selected by TBRHSC’s Senior Leadership Council and endorsed by the Board of Directors, is awarded to those who consistently contribute to our vision of exceptional care for every patient, every time. This year the award was presented to Substance Use and Addictions Strategy. This team’s work in engaging the Hospital community in educational opportunities around anti-stigma and patient and family centered care has helped foster a more inclusive, supportive environment for individuals with substance use challenges. Their commitment to addressing stigma is key in optimizing health outcomes.

The Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Award is awarded to a member or members of the Hospital community who contributed to a strategic initiative that embodies the goal of “we all belong”. This year the award was presented to the Switchboard Department for their ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. The department handled nearly 400,000 calls in 2024, all while maintaining high standards of service. Their ability to connect with users and offer both practical assistance and emotional support has earned them this well-deserved recognition.

The Patient Experience Award is awarded to a member or members of the hospital community who contributed to a strategic initiative that embodies the goal of “empathy, compassion and respect in every encounter”. This year the award was presented to Debra Everts, whose tireless efforts in supporting paediatric patients has left an indelible mark on the hospital. Debra’s leadership in the Paediatric Tours program, which offers families a detailed introduction to the Operating Room, has been essential in easing anxieties and ensuring that children and their families feel comfortable and informed. Her commitment to patient and family centered care exemplifies the core values of TBRHSC.

The Staff Experience Award is awarded to a member or members of the hospital community who contributed to a strategic initiative that embodies the goal of “this is where we want to work, grow and thrive”. This year the award was presented to Katherine Tuomi who works diligently to ensure a psychologically safe environment for all.  Katherine’s unwavering resiliency and commitment to her team has made visible positive impacts throughout the department.

The Research, Innovation, & Learning Award is awarded to a member or members of the hospital community who contributed to a strategic initiative that embodies the goal of “prioritizing our research efforts”. This year the award was presented to Andrea Raynak, whose multifaceted contributions to TBRHSC and the broader healthcare community reflect her embodiment of the principles of a research-oriented, innovative, and academic healthcare institution. Her work reflects the values of a research-oriented healthcare institution, dedicated to improving outcomes for all.

The Sustainable Future Award is awarded to a member or members of the hospital community who contributed to a strategic initiative that embodies the goal of “ensuring our healthy future”. This year the award was presented to the Information Technology Department, whose efforts in supporting over 7,000 users have enhanced the hospital’s operational efficiency while minimizing disruptions to patient care. Their focus on continuous improvement and innovation ensures that TBRHSC is equipped to meet the challenges of the future with confidence and efficiency.

Congratulations to all of the nominees and recipients of the 2024 iCare Impact Awards.

TBRHSC also recently celebrated the 2025 Employee Recognition Week, from February 28 to March 7. The week featured a full calendar of events including daily trivia, complimentary well-being sessions, and a variety of prizes generously sponsored by local businesses. This event was an opportunity for TBRHSC to honour the dedication and hard work of its employees, recognizing their critical role in providing exceptional care and support to the community.