For Megan Maher, care often begins with a simple check-in, whether it is a quiet conversation at a patient’s bedside, a carefully prepared meal or a thoughtful adjustment to help someone eat safely. That compassion has earned her recognition as the 2026 ROSE (Recognition of Service Excellence) Award recipient at Mitchell County Regional Health Center (MCRHC).
The ROSE Award honors an employee who exemplifies outstanding service, compassion and dedication. Maher works in the MCRHC Dietary Department.
Maher’s nomination highlighted the exceptional care she provides to patients, checking to ensure their nutritional needs are met and developing thoughtful solutions for those who struggle to eat. One patient’s family was especially moved by her compassion and wanted to ensure her efforts were acknowledged.
She is also recognized for her dedication to serving patients with dysphagia, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing due to impaired muscle and nerve function. These patients often require specially prepared foods to eat safely. Maher takes great care in crafting meals that are not only safe and nutritious but also thoughtfully presented.
“Megan’s work is a perfect example of how compassion and clinical awareness come together to make a real difference,” said Shelly Russell, MCRHC CEO. “She doesn’t just prepare meals; she takes the time to understand each patient’s needs and ensures they feel cared for, respected and supported.”
MCRHC also recognized the outstanding individuals nominated for this year’s award.
- Cathy Jensen, Medical Transcription
- Mary Low, Medical Transcription
- Jessica Hemann, Speech Therapy
- Taylor Hopkins, Health Information Management
- Karen King, Health Information Management
- Tracy Hart, Health Information Management/St. Ansgar and Riceville Pharmacies/Optometry
The ROSE Award is one of MCRHC’s highest employee honors, celebrating individuals who make a lasting impact on patients through kindness, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. It is sponsored by the MCRHC Auxiliary.
