Salinas Valley Health Clinical Social Worker Receives STAR Award

Media Contact: Karina Rusk
831-759-1843

Salinas Valley Health (Salinas Valley Health) has recognized Bree Nakashima, LMFT a clinical social worker with the STAR Award for the compassionate and skillful care she provides to the community. Nakashima received the November STAR Award in a special surprise ceremony at the hospital and was recognized at the November 17th meeting of the publicly elected Board of Directors.

“I enjoy the work I do at Salinas Valley Memorial and the impact it has on our patients and families, says Bree Nakashima. “I strive to make sure people have a positive experience even in the midst of a challenging situation. It’s about giving people hope and holding them when they need to be held.”

Nakashima is a licensed marriage family therapist and has worked at Salinas Valley Health for 11 years. She was selected for the STAR Award after several co-workers nominated her for the skills and compassion she displays in handling emotional and often difficult situations. The STAR Award stands for Support, Teamwork, Accountability and Respect and is one way Salinas Valley Memorial honors its dedicated and compassionate staff.

“Bree is one of our exceptional clinical social workers,” says Christie Gonder, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at Salinas Valley Health. “Every day she deals with difficult situations all while helping parents make the best decisions for their babies. She gives people hope and is a true professional in her field.”

Several outstanding employees received STAR nominations this month including Shawn Brooks, Divina Cortez, Roberta De Lasantos, Jacqueline Esparza-Valdez, Genieve Fematt, Frank Herrera, Regina Kennedy, Joanna Larios, Regina Linares, Irma Penamente, George Ross, Susie Stogden, Ramon Vega Vazquez.

Every month, Salinas Valley Memorial recognizes an outstanding employee with a STAR Award (for all staff) or a DAISY Award (for nurses). Nomination forms and drop boxes are located throughout the hospital.