Newark, NJ - On Thursday, January 14, more than 500 employees from Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children's Hospital of New Jersey celebrated at an Employee Recognition Dinner held at Mayfair Farms, West Orange, NJ. The event honored employees in a variety of categories, with 512 employees with 6,980 collective years of service being recognized, as well as other attendees who were honored for outstanding performance in a variety of categories.

"The Employee Recognition Dinner gives us an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable service of our long-term employees," said John A. Brennan, MD, Executive Director of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. "We truly are grateful to have such a dedicated and experienced staff here at The Beth and Children's Hospital of New Jersey. "I believe that this longevity stems from their unwavering commitment to their professions and from their devotion to our patients."

In terms of years of service, the following recognitions were given:

• 175 employees celebrated 5 years of service
• 120 employees celebrated 10 years of service
• 56 employees celebrated 15 years of service
• 92 employees celebrated 20 years of service
• 22 employees who celebrated 25 years of service
• 23 employees who celebrated 30 years of service
• 20 employees who celebrated 35 years of service
• 13 employees who celebrated 40 years of service

The employees accumulated more than 6,980 collective years to Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. Also honored were the 2009 Core Value winners and the 2009 Employees of the Month, as well as employees who were recognized most frequently in positive patient satisfaction letters. These employees were honored for a variety of reasons – from organizing the Annual NICU Reunion Picnic, which is attended by more than 550 adults and children; to saving a patient who was choking; to caring for a distressed child after her parent coded in the Emergency Department.

"Our biggest achievement is the atmosphere of warmth that you have created at The Beth," Dr. Brennan told the employees. "Walk down our halls and you will see friends ready to lend support, to hold a hand, to provide outstanding care, at all times. I am proud of you, and of the communal sense of enthusiasm and cooperation at The Beth."