January Ambassador is ‘the employee every department wishes they had’

Jan. 8, 2024 -- When Karen Roland's co-workers talk about the things they admire most about her, there are a few traits that come up again and again.

Her work ethic. The way she's quick to jump in and lend a hand. The compassion she shows them and the patients who visit the Reid Health Comprehensive Bone & Joint Center.

To put it simply, they emphasize just how much of a good person she is.

"Her calmness and pleasant demeanor make her a joy to work with," one person said. "She's admired by her peers, treasured by her leadership, and coveted by other service lines. She deserves recognition for all she brings to Reid Orthopedics and Reid Health."

Reid's Ambassador for the month of January has worked for the health system for 26 years, with the first 11 coming in Food & Nutrition Services. In 2008, she made the move to Reid Orthopedics, currently serving as Clinical Supervisor for the Comprehensive Bone & Joint Center.

"I love helping others, whether it's with a new project, just to understand something a little better, a new way of thinking, or just lending an ear," Roland said. "I enjoy the interaction with patients and helping them through what might be some trying times, such as a new diagnosis or the need for surgery.

"I also love systemizing and looking for newer/better ways of doing things to help improve a work process and/or flow."

"Karen is the employee that every department wishes they had. She is one of the hardest workers I know and is there lending a hand with whatever might be asked of her, without gruff." -- Co-worker

Co-workers praise Roland's ability to balance the clinical and administrative sides to her role, making sure staff have everything they need to do their jobs well while also always ready to jump in and help with patient care when needed.

"Karen is the employee that every department wishes they had. She is one of the hardest workers I know and is there lending a hand with whatever might be asked of her, without gruff," a co-worker said.

"She is one of the most selfless people I know," another person said. "She genuinely cares about all the staff she works with. She'll even handwrite personal notes to those she wants to give thanks to. I cannot stress enough how important Karen is to our facility."

Roland lives in the country around Centerville, Indiana, with her high school sweetheart and husband of 23 years, Anthony; their son, Chase; and their dog, Miranda. When she's not working, Roland enjoys arts and crafts, watching movies, and supporting Chase as he competes with the Archway Swim Club and Centerville's school swimming team.

"Karen is a shining example of what a true Reid employee is," a co-worker said.

"She's been an amazing role model for those she works with in her attitude, compassion, and work ethic. I cannot think of anyone more deserving."