Karen McCullough

Job Title
Administrative secretary.

Department/Location
The VGH Department of Radiology.

How long have you worked at VCH?
Four years.

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I provide administrative support to the Radiology Department and am assistant to the head of  the department.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
The people I work with are a wonderful group. I always feel valued and respected.

How does your work contribute to the VCH True North goals?
I helped promote a better workforce by organizing a department-wide Sun Run team. Last year, I convinced the radiologists’ corporation to sponsor a Sun Run team within our department. I managed to recruit 55 people to the team. In our second year of participating in the Sun Run, I recruited a team of 89 from the radiology staff to walk and run the Sun Run, some of whom completed their first 10k race. The team consisted of staff from every area of the department, including transcriptionists, clerks, admin staff, radiology techs, nurses, residents, fellows and radiologists. People started training and getting fitter and some are now inspired to participate in other races. Our 2014 team finished 4th out of 59 teams in the Health/Medical/Dental division.

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I am a trained chef and used to work as a sous chef in a restaurant.

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Soda water from our Sodastream, parmesan cheese, and carrots.

What makes you happy?
Spending time with my family.

Most healthy habit:
I have completed 4 marathons, 5 half marathons, and just completed my first triathlon. I will begin training for my fifth marathon (New York) in June.

Favourite vacation spot:
Italy. I’ve been there 3 times.