St. Joseph of the Pines (SJP) recently honored associate Cynthia McLeod with an award recognizing her dedication and commitment to the residents and the organization she serves.

McLeod received the award through the Values in Practice (VIP) program, which acknowledges associates whose professionalism, initiative, dedication and empathy reflect the organization's mission and core values. The award was presented to McLeod at a recent board of trustees meeting.

McLeod has been employed with SJP since August 1993. McLeod was actually born in the former St. Joseph's Hospital, which is now known as Pine Knoll, where she is currently part of the wait staff.

She attended Pinecrest High School and has formerly served as a dining room supervisor with SJP. In addition to her role at SJP, McLeod currently works part time in the dietary department at First Health.

In her minimal spare time, McLeod enjoys reading and going to movies. She also enjoys going out to eat and spending time with her granddaughter.

When asked what she likes most about working at SJP, without hesitation, she said, "the residents," whom McLeod says she loves.

"Throughout her years here, Cynthia has gone about her work in a professional, caring and mission-oriented way," said Nathan Summers, director of resident services at Pine Knoll. "If a resident isn't feeling well, Cynthia makes sure that food gets delivered to their apartment if necessary.

"She is empathetic, and notices even the smallest changes in our residents and fellow associates. Cynthia exemplifies SJP's mission, every day quietly touching all those around her in a most caring, loving and helpful way."

St. Joseph's VIP Award provides a way for associates to connect their personal values with the organization's core values, such as stewardship, community and integrity, a news release said. In addition, the initiative improves communication and commitment to residents and the organization itself.

St. Joseph of the Pines, a member of Catholic Health East, is sponsored by the Sisters of Providence and includes Belle Meade, Pine Knoll, the Coventry, Home Care, the Health Center, Therapy Village, L.I.F.E., the Sisters Homes and Providence Place communities.