Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) celebrated its annual long service recognition event this past week, honouring 167 employees, physicians and volunteers who have achieved 25 years of service or more. This year’s event recognized individuals who achieved milestones of 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years, marking decades of dedication to patient- and family-centred care.
“We celebrate service typically every five years, and the long service celebration is for those who are greater than 25 years,” Micki Mulima, director of Inclusion and Organizational Development said. “This gives us an opportunity to pay tribute to those who contribute to KHSC in such a dedicated and committed way. Plus, it’s fun.”
The program reflects KHSC’s appreciation for its people.
“Our staff give so much to their work and the people they care for,” Mulima said. “They’re impacting people’s lives, which connects to our mission. We see the sickest of the sick in the region and it can be challenging work. This celebration is our way of giving something back and pausing to reflect on a remarkable accomplishment.”
Reflecting on her own 25 year milestone with KHSC, Mulima shared why KHSC has remained a place she’s proud to grow.
“I could have chosen to work in any industry, but I chose health care,” she said. “It’s dynamic and full of opportunities to learn and evolve. At the end of the day, I can look at myself in the mirror and feel good about what I’m doing —making a meaningful contribution to the community and people’s well-being.”
Meanwhile, for KHSC physician Dr. Eric Sauerbrei, 45 years at KHSC have brought both professional satisfaction and personal fulfillment.
“Professionally, the opportunity to further develop an academic radiology program at KGH and HDH inspired me to stay,” he said. “My wife and I found Kingston to be a manageable city, more so than larger ones, while providing excellent educational opportunities for our family.”
He added that Kingston’s strong medical and academic community has been key.
“Radiology has undergone tremendous growth and innovation since 1980,” he said. “It’s been exciting to participate in that within a world-class university and hospital setting.”
Sauerbrei credits mentorship, collaboration and curiosity for his longevity.
Professional longevity requires significant good fortune,” he said. “Curiosity, work-life balance and a sense of humour definitely help as well.”
KHSC also celebrates early service milestones of five, 10, 15 and 20 years.
Kaitlyn Bell, nuclear medicine technologist, is marking 10 years at KHSC and says her passion for patient care keeps her motivated.
“I grew up not far from KHSC — I was born in this hospital,” Bell said. “Our field can be chaotic at times, but my co-workers keep me supported and thriving. I’m proud to add a little bit of light to patients’ days and look forward to many more years ahead.”
As Mulima summed up, “Ultimately, we are a people business. We get to live in a beautiful and safe place, do great things and make a difference. That’s a pretty good way to spend a career.”
