Nursing Leader at SCH Receives Patriot Award From Employer Support of Guard and Reserve

Julie Beeney, nursing director of critical care and peri-anisthesia services at Ministry Health Care’s Saint Clare’s Hospital in Weston is the recipient of a Patriot Award from Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).

The Patriot Award is a result of an employee nominating their employer who they feel has exceeded the legal requirements in supporting their military employee. Beeney was nominated by Captain Alicia Czarnecki, who works as a registered nurse in Saint Clare’s Intensive and Critical Care units.

“I am proud to work under such a great manager,” said Czarnecki. “Her flexibility and dedication to my military schedule allows greatly reduces the stress in scheduling these matteras and allows me to provide high quality patient care at Saint Clare’s and serve my country at the same time.”

Beeney also signed a Statement of Support, pledging the commitment of Saint Clare’s Hospital to stand behind its employees that serve in the Guard and Reserve. This statement of support is part of a national ESGR initiative that encourages positive relationships between employers and their Guard and Reserve employees.

“This is a tremendous honor for me personally and professionally,” said Beeney. “Alicia is an exceptional nurse and an even better person and her dedication Saint Clare’s and her country is something we all appreciate.”

Saint Clare’s Hospital joins other employers in pledging that:
• Employment will not be denied because of service in the National Guard and Reserve.
• Employee job and career opportunities will not be limited or reduced because of service in the National Guard and Reserve.
• Employees will be granted leaves of absence for military training and/or service in the National Guard or Reserve, consistent with existing laws, without sacrifice of vacation.
• This pledge of support and its resultant policies will be made known throughout this organization.

“Wisconsin’s Reserve and Guard members deserve the support of every segment of our society and Saint Clare’s Hospital is a shinning example of that support,” said Bud McKonly, Chairman of Wisconsin’s ESGR Committee. “In the highest American tradition, men and women of the National Guard and Reserve serve voluntarily in an honorable and vital profession as they train to respond to their community and their country in time of need.”

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense volunteer organization. ESGR provides free education, consultation, and, if necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees. ESGR's goal is to support America's employers who share their employees with the Nation to ensure our national security. More information about the Wisconsin ESGR Committee can be found at: http://www.esgr.net

For more information about the symbolism behind the Statement of Support signing or Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, contact Mike Smith at 608.242.3169.