UP Health System – Portage is proud to recognize Nikita Peterson, coordinator of surgical services scheduling, as this quarter's recipient of The Sunflower Award. The Sunflower Award recognizes outstanding employees at UP Health System – Portage who demonstrate excellence through teamwork, a positive attitude, strong communication and deep knowledge in their roles. These individuals embody a clear sense of purpose and play a vital role in supporting the care of our patients and community.

The Sunflower Award is a quarterly recognition program that honors outstanding team members in non-nursing roles — such as therapists, housekeepers, facilities staff, technologists and others — who consistently demonstrate excellence through:

• Teamwork
• Respect
• A positive attitude
• Positive interactions and relationships
• Exemplary communication
• Promoting optimism
• Knowledge

Nikita has been recognized for her commitment to patient advocacy, most recently acting on behalf of a patient as they navigate the insurance framework. In addition, Nikita goes out of her way to assist teammates through acts of kindness, whether it be a helping hand, cleaning a room, retrieving water or words of encouragement on a busy day.

Below is the full list of Sunflower Award nominees for this quarter. Thank you for everything you do!

• Med Surg Department
• Elizabeth Campioni
• Matt Williams, PortagePointe
• Andrea Bouman, ED
• Chris Sochay, Housekeeping
• Mikayla Brotherton, Housekeeping
• Sandra Aronson, Wound Care
• Joan Kotila, Lab
• Lynn LaTendresse, Radiology
• Anna Juntunen, OB