A Quarter Century of Professional Excellence and Positivity

SALINAS, Calif. - When patients and visitors walk into Salinas Valley Health, the first impression they receive is often shaped by Maria “Dolores” Gonzalez. For 25 years, Gonzalez has combined meticulous attention to cleanliness with genuine compassion, offering smiles, reassurance and, when needed, even hugs. In recognition of her impact, she has been named a recipient of the organization’s STAR Award.

An environmental services aide, Gonzalez is known across departments for her positivity and pride in maintaining a clean, welcoming environment. Colleagues say her work ethic and warmth elevate the experience for patients, visitors and staff alike.

“Dolores always has a positive attitude and is very hardworking,” one nominator wrote. “I have personally seen her make an effort to help patients and visitors when they seem lost or confused. She is a great employee to have in this organization.”

Gonzalez became emotional during the surprise award presentation, which followed a meaningful interaction earlier that day with a former patient. During a previous hospital stay, she had given the patient a rosary. “He had hung it on his bed during his stay,” said Gonzalez. “When he saw me today, he gave me a hug and told me I made him feel better and touched his heart.”

Colleagues say her work ethic is as consistent as her kindness. A second nomination read, “Miss Dolores always ensures the main lobby and restrooms are cleaned and maintained, which is often our guests first impression.”

“It is truly a team effort however the award does make me feel good,” says Gonzalez. “I feel like I’m really valued. This hospital and the people are so strong, so nice. I love it and am happy to keep it clean and to get lots of hugs.”

In addition to Gonzalez, employees nominated for a STAR Award include: Sarena Alaga, support coordinator in education; Florinda Aleman-Andrews, insurance clerk in patient financial services; Jaime Becerra, materials equipment technician in purchasing; Fernando Camarena, CEP, exercise physiologist in cardiac wellness; Berenice Carmona, CPhT, pharmacy technician II; Gypsy Douglas, nurse aide in patient care resources; Christopher Duenas, head aide in nutrition services; Kentfield Hankins, aide in environmental services; Kathy Ibarra, aide in environmental services; Aryanna Peguero, nurse aide in the observation care unit; Agnish “Julie” Prasad, pharmacy technician II; Pricilla Saucedo, concierge in volunteer and guest services; Lori Schonert, CPCS, credentialing coordinator in medical staff services; and Ana Torres-Garcia, aide in environmental services.

The STAR Award recognizes employees who demonstrate the organization’s core values of Support, Teamwork, Accountability and Respect. Alongside the internationally recognized DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the program is part of Salinas Valley Health’s commitment to honoring staff who strengthen the patient experience and advance a culture of excellence across the organization.

Media Contact: Karina Rusk
831-759-1843