September Ambassador ‘sets the bar high when it comes to serving others’

Sept. 9, 2024 -- Had life turned out differently, Rikki Hobson would be with her father today, celebrating his 62^nd birthday. But cancer took his life in 2015.

"He was my rock and my best friend," Reid Health's Ambassador for the month of September said. "It means the world to me to receive this amazing honor on his special day. Since his passing, it has been my mission to make him proud every single day."

That drive and the way she's able to connect with others -- even in difficult circumstances -- made Hobson a fitting choice for the Ambassador honor.

"Rikki is a true diplomat. She's patient, kind, calm, and helpful," a co-worker said.

"One of her most notable gifts is her ability to be an encourager. She takes the time to notice those around her who might need a kind word, a piece of chocolate, or a bag of chips. She sets the bar high when it comes to serving others."

Hobson started at Reid in 2014 as a psychiatric technician. Four years later, she moved into her current role as the secretary in the Risk Management department.

"I came to Reid because I heard so many great things from my family members who were working here at the time," Hobson said. "Once I started, I knew I'd never leave because this is where I belong.

"The organization has a great way of including all the employees and making us feel valuable. Every day I come in and see the smiling faces and kindness, which makes it all worth it."

Co-workers say Hobson's ability to sympathize with others allows her to excel in her role.

"Her ability to address challenging situations with empathy and integrity is a testament to her dedication to our mission," one person said. "She maintains a positive mindset, even in the most demanding circumstances, and her friendly demeanor creates a supportive environment for patients and staff."

"One of her most notable gifts is her ability to be an encourager. She takes the time to notice those around her who might need a kind word, a piece of chocolate, or a bag of chips. She sets the bar high when it comes to serving others." -- Co-worker

"I deal with the hard side of healthcare," Hobson said. "We don't always receive warmth and fuzziness. Sometimes we must deal with tough situations. But I believe facing these challenges makes me a better employee at Reid."

A Richmond native, Hobson still lives in the city with her husband, Rieley; their two children, Aniyah and Ryland; and their dog, Patches.

When she's not working, Hobson loves watching her daughters play soccer. She also collects rocks, crystals, and fossils; enjoys going to the river and fishing; and takes her Kindle or a book anywhere she goes.

"My husband and daughters strive every day to help me improve," Hobson said. "I couldn't navigate life without their support."