News

October was a good month for Jennifer Tate, director of RiverView’s Environmental Services (EVS) Department. Not only did she celebrate 25 years with the organization, but she was also named Employee of the Month (EOM).

Eight EOM nominations were given in Jennifer’s honor, not only by leaders in other departments but also by the people she supervises. The words “overachiever,” “positive,” and “high performing” were used to describe Jennifer, and a large group gathered to surprise her with the award.

“I am humbled by receiving Employee of the Month,” she shared. “I am very fortunate to work with an incredible team. I am honored by the nominations from Brian (Erickson), Janeen (Brule) and my team. The people who nominated me are amazing individuals and they always put everyone else in front of themselves. They are the reason RiverView is an excellent place to work and receive care. My team makes me look good; they are the true rock stars of RiverView.”

Jennifer is the youngest of nine children raised on a small farm near Angus. She is a true Ponies fan, graduating from school in Warren. She and her husband, Dennis, have been married for 28 years and live in Crookston. Jennifer is known for her love of cats, and her phone is full of pictures of her beloved Angus, the fluffy black one, and Malcolm, the smoky grey one. A music lover of all varieties, her cats are named after AC/DC’s Angus and Malcolm Young.

When she’s not taking pictures of Angus and Malcolm, Jennifer and Dennis are regulars at Crookston High School sporting events. Over the years, they have supported their nieces and nephews in sports and are now cheering for the children of those nieces and nephews in their activities. They’ve rooted for family members who have played college football, volleyball, basketball, softball, and wrestling. With baseball as her first love, though, the Minnesota Twins will always be her favorite, she shared. Crafting and cooking are also on Jennifer’s favorites list, as well as volunteering with the Life Teen program in Red Lake Falls. Finally, she’s a huge animal lover, especially cats, of course.

The following are just a few of the comments made in nominations for Jennifer: Jen is an overachiever. She goes out of her way to ensure all areas are covered even if it means doing it herself. She never hesitates to show her appreciation for our team. We value her so very much as our boss, we are beyond lucky to have her!

Jen is always there for us to lend a helping hand no matter how busy she may be with her own daily tasks…We admire her attitude towards putting patient care at the top of her list. She always finds the positive in every situation and is so enjoyable to be around. I couldn’t ask for a better go-to person at RiverView…I feel blessed to be part of her EVS team at RiverView…Her thoughts and appreciation for the EVS team is over the top.

Jennifer has always led our department by example. She always has positive remarks for our staff in the department…I feel her work ethic is a positive influence and example to our department and helps make us a better team.

She’s very helpful with her staff, as when there’s a call in, she will at times grab a cleaning cart and go on her merry way and actually clean in that area where we are short…I think Jen should go out in the community and teach other “bosses” to be like her! Jen is not only a great boss, but also a great friend. She listens to us when we have troubles with our jobs and gives up positive input! Jen’s very understanding too, as with health issues or personnel issues going on at home.. Jen doesn’t judge us, no matter what’s happening. Jen’s personality rocks! Having a bad day? Talk with Jen, she will get you to laugh in no time, she is hilarious! She treats all of us just like family!

She is a perfect example of how to treat "people", all of us, and let us all know that we are needed and wanted in this hospital...She is such a positive force for RiverView.

Jennifer remains a positive force within our organization. She exemplifies all the values of a high performing employee and leader. She has consistently performed to her highest potential. She also realizes the power of a good cat photo.