Recognizing Einstein’s Outstanding, Long-Lasting Staffers
At December’s Staff Recognition ceremonys some 150 Einstein employees gathered with their colleagues and friends in Lubin Dining Hall as they celebrated Einstein anniversaries from 5 years onward up to 55 years. Honorees came from all corners of Einstein and included engineers, research technicians, custodial staff, administrative assistants, administrators, and more.
Donna Gerardi, administrator for obstetrics & gynecology and women’s health is flanked by Irwin Merkatz, M.D., former department chair (at left) and Edward Burns, M.D., Einstein’s executive dean, as she celebrated 55 years at the College of Medicine.
While the largest group of employees, a total of 55, were recognized for reaching the five-year mark, a remarkable few were honored for observing decades on campus. “Such longevity is a credit to them and to Einstein,” said Yvonne Ramirez, vice president of human resources and title IX coordinator.
The two longest-serving employees recognized at this year’s event were Anna Cioffi, with 45 years and Donna Gerardi, with 55 years.
Anna Cioffi – 45 Years
Anna Cioffi, with Einstein Dean Yaron Tomer, M.D.
Anna got her start at Einstein in 1978, the same year that “Grease” was the most popular movie in the world, the Blues Brothers debuted on Saturday Night Live, and smallpox was eradicated. She joined the department of molecular biology as a clerical temp when Dr. Lucy Shapiro was chair. After becoming a permanent employee, Anna was promoted to administrative assistant. Following a departmental reorganization, she undertook a clerical role in the Liver Center from which she quickly rose to administrator.
Her last move, in 1990, was to administrator in the department of molecular pharmacology. As someone who prefers calls and visits to emails; she used the personal touch and organizational acumen to keep the department running smoothly for over 30 years. She retired this spring. Among her accomplishments was managing the transition to the Banner accounting and information system. “I’m so proud to have been part of an institution that serves my Bronx community.”
Donna Gerardi -- 55 Years
Donna took the prize for longevity among this year’s honorees. Arriving in1968, while still in high school, the Beatles’ “Hey Jude” had just topped the Billboard charts, Apollo 8 had orbited the moon, and a dozen eggs cost only 53 cents. Einstein’s first class of future physicians had graduated only nine years earlier.
Donna worked part-time after school in the new Ullmann Building’s computer center under mathematician and physicist Dr. Herbert Schimmel. By 1970 she was a full-time statistical typist, then a secretary, and ultimately an administrator. In 1990 she moved to Einstein’s department of obstetrics & gynecology and women’s health, where she assisted then professor and chair Dr. Irwin Merkatz with travel needs, coordinated events, contributed graphic arts, and served on the department’s leadership team. Donna now plans weekly grand rounds for the department as well. With a reputation for dedication and hard work, she has been known to work on holidays, evenings, and weekends to meet deadlines, and shows no signs of slowing down.
Staff Recognition Awards
Employees at the ceremony also received awards recognizing excellence in innovation and service, and to support their professional growth. “It’s our pleasure and mission to notice talent and help our staff grow in their careers,” said Yvonne.
Three outstanding staff members were nominated by their peers for exceptional performance: Celia James, department of biochemistry, received the Outstanding Client Service Award; Kevin Fisher, department of neuroscience, was selected and given the Distinguished Service Award; and Daniel Viera, department of information technology, received the Innovative Excellence Award.
In addition, each year the Manny Genn Prize is given to rising stars among faculty and staff in support of their professional growth. There were two recipients for the 2023 award:. Holly Nuthmann, program manager of the Service Learning course in the office of medical education, and Dr. Ahamefule Okorozo, research coordinator in the department of medicine’s division of pulmonary medicine.
“We congratulate every one of our honorees—from the award winners to those with long Einstein careers, to the employees who joined in 2018,” said Yvonne. “We cherish and celebrate everyone.”
While the recognition ceremony marks those with special anniversary and achievements, throughout the year, the department of human resources cares about the health and growth of your career. Visit the department’s website to learn about benefits, compensation, HR technology, employee relations, and the Learning Network.
Posted on: Monday, July 15, 2024