UP Health System – Marquette Emergency Medical Services (EMS) wheelchair van driver Lennie Webber Honored with Julianne Kirkham Award

Lennie Webber, an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) wheelchair van driver at UP Health System – Marquette, has been named the latest recipient of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award. This award recognizes exemplary employees in the support and ancillary departments who demonstrate a clear commitment to supporting the care of our patients and community.

It is easy to underestimate the impact of someone whose work happens quietly behind the scenes — but anyone who has spent even a few minutes around Lennie knows his presence carries weight.

In his role supporting patient transport, Lennie helps patients move safely throughout their care journey. What he truly delivers, however, goes far beyond transportation. He brings calm to anxious moments, warmth to clinical spaces and reassurance for patients and families during some of the most vulnerable times in their lives.

Soft spoken by nature, Lennie’s compassion speaks loudly. He listens closely, moves with intention and always seems to have a steady smile that reminds people they matter. It is nearly impossible to pass him in the hallway without a friendly hello — and those small moments do more for our culture than we often realize.

Lennie with members of the UPHS – Marquette leadership team, from left to right: Polly Hockberger, Vice President of Operations; Jason Collins, Vice President of Operations; Lisa Long, MD, Chief Medical Officer; Lennie Webber; Tonya Darner, Market Chief Executive Officer; Meg McConnnell, Chief Nursing Officer; Julie Nordberg, Executive Director of Nursing and Teresa Perry, Chief Financial Officer. 

Recently, Lennie paused a patient’s discharge transport after noticing the patient was not appropriately clothed for the weather or for a dignified return home. Rather than simply completing the task at hand, he slowed down and advocated for the patient, ensuring they had proper clothing before leaving the hospital. His actions reflected a deep commitment to protecting each patient’s comfort and dignity.

Lennie also consistently volunteers for some of the hospital’s more complex transports, helping patients return home who might otherwise experience delays. In doing so, he supports patient flow while ensuring compassion remains at the center of the process.

In reflecting on his path into health care, Lennie once shared that during mortuary school, he was told he might be “too emotional” for the profession. He reflected that while he may feel deeply for others, doing right by people would always make the work worthwhile. In health care, empathy has proven to be a tremendous gift to patients and colleagues alike.

Through his quiet dedication, steady kindness and unwavering respect for others, Lennie reminds us that every patient matters. His compassion and commitment make UP Health System – Marquette a better place every day, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.

Lennie and his family

About the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award

Named in honor of Dr. Julianne Kirkham, this award pays tribute to individuals who believe that our own lives become better as we help improve the lives of others. Every patient mattered to Dr. Kirkham, and throughout her career, she touched countless lives as a physician, educator and advocate.

Dr. Kirkham was known for her warmth, intellectual curiosity and deep love for helping others. Her knowledgeable compassion, sense of justice and fierce advocacy for her patients during their darkest times gave them hope and direction. Her sense of humor also helped put patients and families at ease during difficult moments.

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 her. In honor of her memory, UP Health System – Marquette created this award to recognize employees who follow in her footsteps.

Recipients of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award are selected quarterly by a hospital committee based on nominations submitted by staff.