INTEGRIS– On Wednesday, Aug. 28, INTEGRIS Health Ponca City Hospital held the 60th employment anniversary celebration for Edith Rath, who is a buyer in the materials department. It is the first time the hospital has ever had a caregiver reach this amazing milestone.
Chris Mendoza, the chief hospital executive of INTEGRIS Health Ponca City Hospital, appreciates Edith’s years of service and commitment. “Edith’s consistent dedication has contributed a lot to our hospital, and we are fortunate to have her as a member of our team.” Roughly 90 caregivers, community and family members attended the celebration, including Wendy Chandler, the chief human resources officer at INTEGRIS Health, board members T.L. Walker and Dr. Robert Howard and Ponca City Vice Mayor Kelsey Wagner who presented a proclamation from the City of Ponca City.
“Celebrating 60 years on the job is an extraordinary milestone, especially in a field as dynamic as health care,” Chandler said as she greeted the crowd. “Edith Rath has been a steadfast pillar through decades of change, showing up for her patients, community and fellow caregivers. She has served the Ponca City community every day and we are thankful that she is now also an INTEGRIS Health caregiver. We are deeply grateful for Edith’s enduring commitment and are honored to celebrate this remarkable achievement.”
In the early 1960s, Edith’s hourly wage was .85 cents taking home $40 every two weeks. She has held many job titles over the years including dietary aide, cook, dietary supervisor and credentialed dietary manager. In 1968, a hospital administrator encouraged her to transfer to the purchasing (materials) department where she currently works as a buyer. When asked to share advice with other caregivers, Edith simply stated, “No matter what your job may be – always strive to own that job and give 100% to achieving all that the job may entail. Always accept responsibility for the good and bad in the job, one learns from mistakes so don’t let them define you.”
Words of wisdom from a remarkable woman who has given the better part of her life to a job she loves and a community who has come to depend on her. Congratulations Edith on an extraordinary career!
