PUGHKEEPSIE, NY – January 18, 2018 – Two members of the Pines at Poughkeepsie Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation were recently recognized by the New York State Health Facilities Association/New York State Center for Assisted Living’s 68th Annual Convention and Expo Awards Banquet. Of hundreds of member organizations, the Pines at Poughkeepsie was honored to have two members receive prestigious awards.
Shirley Gill was awarded with the title of “RN of the Year” by the NYSHFA’s Employee Recognition Program, whose goal is to honor exemplary employees working in skilled nursing facilities. Carlos Berroa was a recipient of the “Volunteer of the Year Award.” The Volunteer of the Year Program recognizes outstanding volunteers serving in skilled nursing facilities across the state of New York.
Shirley Gill, an evening supervisor, has been employed with The Pines at Poughkeepsie for seven years and has an extensive nursing background beginning in her home country of Barbados and extending to the United States. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Psychology. Gill worked at the Heart Foundation in Barbados for 10 years as Director of Cardiac Disease Prevention and at Queen Elizabeth Hospital for 20 years in various nursing positions. Gill and her husband immigrated to the United States 10 years ago and in 2015 became US citizens.
Carlos Berroa, a retired corrections officer, has volunteered at The Pines at Poughkeepsie Center for the past year, and has spent more than 400 hours at the center, becoming a vital member of the recreation and activities team. He is also known as the center’s “Grill Master,” dealer for the roulette table, and is happy to be the “muscle” when setting up for various activities. The residents and staff alike have come to know him well and he is an expected and anticipated presence at many weekly events. Carlos’ hard work and dedication to the residents is “outstanding,” per administrator Patrick Weir.
“We are beyond happy and grateful that these two wonderful people are members of our team and congratulations on the much deserved awards to both,” stated Weir at the awards ceremony.