UP Health System – Marquette Announces Recipient of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award
February 24, 2022
Todd Valente, Anesthesia Technician in the Operating Room at UP Health System – Marquette, has been chosen as the latest recipient of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award. This quarterly award at UP Health System – Marquette recognizes exemplary employees of the support and ancillary departments of the hospital who clearly see their purpose and importance in supporting the care of our patients and our community.
Fellow employees nominated Todd in recognition of his hard work — especially during the summer when surgeries in the Operating Room increased — as well as his positive demeanor, which continues to inspire and encourage those around him.
When Todd is working, the anesthesia staff and OR personnel can count on not only his attention to detail and strong work ethic, but also his commitment to excellence in all he does.
— Excerpt from Todd’s nomination
About the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award
Named in honor of Dr. Julianne Kirkham, this award pays tribute to those who, just as Dr. Kirkham did, believe that our own lives become better as we help others’ lives become better. Every individual patient mattered to Dr. Kirkham, and she touched countless lives throughout her career. She was a true educator to patients, families, and fellow medical colleagues. She was intellectually curious and had a deep love for helping others. Her warmth, knowledgeable compassion, sense of justice, and fierce advocacy for her patients during their darkest times gave them hope and direction. Her sense of humor was brilliant, helping to put her patients at ease. Dr. Kirkham lived her life with a greater purpose to help others.
Sadly, Dr. Kirkham passed away unexpectedly in 2020. She was courageous, generous, and inspiring, with an unrelenting desire to create a ripple effect of positive change in the people and the world around us. In honor of Dr. Kirkham’s memory, UP Health System – Marquette created this award to recognize those who follow in her footsteps.
Recipients of this award are chosen by a hospital committee on a quarterly basis based on nominations submitted by staff.