Erlanger recently came together to honor and recognize social workers across the system. Peers were able to nominate social workers in various departments, selecting four Social Worker of the Year recipients.
This year’s recipients are Cheryl Smith, MSW, LPN (Erlanger Baroness Hospital), Gennie Childs, LCSW (Outpatient-Erlanger Medical Group), Jenny Dixon, MSW (Erlanger East Hospital) and Alexandra Brzezienski, LMSW (Children's Hospital at Erlanger).
Ms. Smith has worked at Erlanger for more than 25 years.
"During her tenure, she has dedicated herself to helping patients who were most vulnerable. Her experience in the Emergency Department has made her an amazing resource for her peers and a advocate for her patients," officials said.
Ms. Childs was nominated by her peers for her generosity towards families facing pediatric cancer. "She is considered as a social worker who 'goes out of her way' to provide support," officials said. One peer who nominated her said, “Gennie exemplifies the highest standards of the profession, demonstrating unwavering commitment to her patients, families, and colleagues.”
Ms. Dixon is a social worker at Erlanger East Hospital who has a passion for serving mothers and newborns. "Peers commend her for her tireless efforts to support growing families, approaching each situation with kindness and an open mind," officials said. "Jenny's tact and willingness to always go the extra mile makes her a special part of the Erlanger East family."
Nominations for Ms. Brzezienski mention her "strong passion to connect pediatric patients with all the resources they need." Alexandra's peers note that she is "a champion for social justice and excels at tackling all the unique challenges pediatric social work embodies."
"This year's winners exemplify the intersection of professionalism, commitment and advocacy,’ said Jessica Long, LMSW, psychiatry director, Erlanger. “The work they do not only beautifully represents Erlanger's goal to compassionately care for people, but shows that social work practice can be expertly implemented and highly valued throughout the entire Erlanger network."