HOWARD — Earlier this month, Horizon Health Care hosted its second annual recognition event to honor employees who went above and beyond in service to their communities and patients, as well as donors who supported Horizon’s mission in providing access to affordable, high-quality health care.

South Dakota Department of Health Secretary Melissa Magstadt joined the event as the keynote speaker. The Secretary congratulated Horizon Health staff on the vital care they provide in the rural and frontier communities they serve.

Following Magstadt’s remarks, Horizon presented its Circle of Care Awards in recognition of staff-member efforts to uphold Horizon’s mission and significant donor contributions.

By establishing the “Circle of Care” awards Horizon recognizes teams and individuals who embody Horizon’s values and mission to ensure our circle remains connected and all patients have access to seamless, quality care.

The Outstanding Philanthropist Award was presented to Dr. Tom and Kathy Dean for their exceptional generosity.

The Deans established the Dr. Tom and Kathy Dean Fund for Excellence in Rural Health Care Endowment. The fund provides a legacy to Horizon Health Care communities across South Dakota, and ensures Horizon keeps pace with the rapidly changing health care environment.  Funds will be used to support health care workers through Horizon’s Rooted in Rural program, which assists in the recruitment and retention of physicians and other health care providers for rural/frontier communities.

Dr. Dean served Horizon clinics in Wessington Springs, Woonsocket, and Plankinton for more than 40 years and has a distinguished record of industry and community achievements. He was recently inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame.

Kathy Dean had her own distinguished medical career as a nurse and midwife. She provided maternity services and women’s health care in Wessington Springs for more than 30 years.

The Keeping Communities Well Award recognizes an outstanding clinical team that demonstrates excellence in quality, patient care, community involvement, and Horizon’s core values. It was presented to the Fort Thompson Community Health Center and the Jerauld County Dental Clinic.

The Team on a Mission Award recognizes an outstanding administrative/support team that takes initiative to improve the organization’s values, efficiency of services, and processes that continue to move the Horizon mission forward. It was presented to the Health Information Technology Team consisting of Lacey Finkbeiner, Michele Block, Gin Wingen and Destinee Branco.

The Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation Award was presented to Jans Corporation for the Jans’ family’s outstanding commitment to Horizon initiatives through financial support and encouraging others to take leadership roles toward philanthropy and community involvement. The mission of Jans Corporation is Building Dreams, Solutions, Tools. They have partnered with Horizon on several clinic projects.

“Horizon is fortunate to have a dedicated and talented group of staff members, providers and partners who go above and beyond to care for our patients and communities,” said Wade Erickson, Horizon CEO. “We’re grateful for them every day but wanted to take this opportunity to shine a light on the exceptional contributions these teams and individuals have made.”

During the program, many employees were celebrated for their longevity with Horizon and their dedication to patient care.

Twenty-seven individuals from across the state were honored with a combined 255 years of experience.

Employees recognized for their longevity included: Lori Kollmann, PA-C, RN, at Howard Community Health Center (25); Lance Lim, MD, at Bryant, De Smet, Lake Preston, Woonsocket and Jerauld County Community Health Centers (20); Dan Kvale, PA-C, at Aurora County Community Health Center, (20); Brenda Engle (15), Billing Department; Devon Clubb, RDH at De Smet Dental Services (15).

Joan Biever at James Valley Community Health Center (10); Amanda Adams, PA-C, at James Valley Community Health Center (10); Charlsie Wilson at Mission Community Health Center (10); Lamar Koistinen, DDS, at De Smet Dental Services (10); Deb Meyers, at James Valley Community Center (10); Meghan Torgerson, CNP, at Jerauld County Community Health Center (10); Renae Aughenbaugh at De Smet Dental Services (10); Kristen Longville at Lake Preston Community Health Center (10); Kris Strohfus at Aberdeen Community Health Center (10); Jenica Bender at Woonsocket Community Health Center (10).

Teresa Lange at Elk Point Community Health Center (5); Judy Martin at Jerauld County Community Health Center (5); Darcie Lee at Howard Administration (5); Catherine Friesen, CNP at Aberdeen Community Health Center (5); Jean Thompson, CNP, PA-C, at Howard Community Health Center (5); Mary Honomichl at Southeast Region (5); Ashley Tolzin at De Smet Community Health Center (5); Ryan Rowe, CNP, at Mission Community Health Center (5); Desarae Van Niekerk at Jerauld County Dental Clinic (5); Soliris Almestica at Aberdeen Community Health Center (5); Kim Ball (5), Horizon Administration; Katlyn Rostyne, CNP, at Woonsocket Community Health Center (5).