This year’s recipients of the recently re-vamped People First Awards were honoured at a presentation ceremony on June 24, where they received their certificates and trophies.

Click the arrows to scroll through the event photo gallery below and be sure to check out what the excellence award winners’ co-workers said about them by clicking the [VIDEO] links next to their names. Note: You can also visit the People First Awards 2015 photo album directly on Flickr.

Excellence Everyday – The Unsung Hero

This award is for an individual who has consistently gone above and beyond without fanfare to the benefit of the organization and the people around them, whether they are patients or fellow staff members.

Award of Excellence

• Natascha Greco, medical radiation technologist, LGH  – [VIDEO]

Award of Merit

• Delia Bortignon, analyst/administrative assistant to Deb Blaney and Management Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Services and Compensation & Classification, Employee Engagement
• Tracy Sutherland, portfolio clerk, Regional Staffing Service (recognized for her work as a staffing coordinator at Three Bridges Community Health Centre)

Excellence in Patient-Centred Care

This award is for an individual who goes above and beyond to support their patients, clients or residents in the delivery of high quality care and services while upholding professional standards.

Award of Excellence

• Lise Belanger, clinical nurse specialist, Spinal Cord Unit, VGH  – [VIDEO]

Award of Merit

• Melody Karpiak, registered nurse, Psychiatry, VGH
• Telma Ramirez, registered nurse, Operating Room, VGH

Excellence in Teamwork and Collaboration

This award is for a team that has come together to problem-solve, break down boundaries and/or create new relationships, finding sustainable solutions to health care challenges.

Award of Excellence

• Daisy Project, Kiwanis Care Centre  – [VIDEO]

Award of Merit

• Critical Care Outreach Team, VGH
• Cardiac Surgery Quality Improvement Team, VGH

Excellence in Innovation

This award is for an individual who uses their courage and creativity to bring forward innovative solutions that challenge the status quo, improve quality and move us toward a more sustainable health care system.

Award of Excellence

• Cathy Duerksen, clinical educator, Vancouver Community IV Program, Robert and Lily Lee Family Community Health Centre  – [VIDEO]

Award of Merit

• Maureen Duggan, physiotherapist and hand therapist, Ambulatory Care, VGH (recognized for her recent role as a practice coordinator, Surgical & Ambulatory Services, Professional Practice, VGH and UBCH)

Excellence in Leadership

This award is for a respected, compassionate leader who inspires their peers and team with their thirst for excellence.

Award of Excellence

• Sandra Edelman, manager, Public Health & Chronic Disease Services, Parkgate Community Health Centre  – [VIDEO]

Award of Merit

• Elizabeth Stanger, operations director, Coastal Community of Care
• Karen Barclay, program manager, Mental Health & Addiction Services, Richmond Community Care