Loyalty Abounds at Fremont’s Top Employer

Washington Health is not only one of Fremont’s largest employers, it was recently named the best company to work for in Fremont by two employment agencies, Zippia in 2025 and Instawork in 2024. Rating criteria included factors like work-life balance, career progression, workplace culture, and employee diversity. High employee retention rates are another characteristic of top employers, and the health system is no exception. Employee loyalty was on full display last weekend at Washington Health’s employee recognition event to acknowledge staff members celebrating milestone work anniversaries.

At this annual event, valued employees marking a significant “workiversary” are honored for their contributions and commitment by Washington Health Chief Executive Officer Kimberly Hartz and members of the Washington Township Health Care District Board of Directors. These dedicated, longtime employees are one of the reasons Washington Health is often described as having a “family atmosphere.”

“Our hospital continues to be recognized for the exceptional care we provide,” Hartz said to award recipients at the event. “Those accolades are not about our facilities or technology —they are about you. You are the reason our patients feel cared for, our community places its trust in us, and our health system continues to thrive.”

Four guests of honor received awards for reaching their 40th work anniversary at Washington Health. Betty Brassfield, executive assistant, worked in the Transcription Department for 29 years before becoming an invaluable member of the Marketing & Communications team. Scott Garcia, food services supervisor, started at the hospital when he was a junior at American High School, and his sister, nieces and son have been part of the Washington Health team. Marita Lim-Mendioro, RN, is a labor and delivery nurse who has received the esteemed DAISY award and Nurse of the Year recognition. And Elizabeth “Beth” Ricker, registered respiratory care practitioner, was born at Washington Hospital and became a respiratory therapist (RT) in honor of her father, a local pediatrician, who required RT support while fighting ALS.

In addition to these valued award recipients, another 337 employees were honored at the event for work anniversaries of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 years.

Washington Health established the Nancy Farber Patient First Ethic Award in 2020 to recognize extraordinary efforts of a staff member. Presented annually at the employee recognition event, this year’s award went to Gary Tran, service line coordinator and an important part of the operating room (OR) team. Gary is known to bring composure, clarity and confidence to the OR in high-stress moments. He never hesitates to go above and beyond when circumstances require it. For example, one evening, Gary was at home in Newark when he heard from the hospital that a cord for the robotic surgery system had been damaged, impacting readiness for a procedure the following morning. Gary took it upon himself to locate a replacement cord, drive to San Jose to get it, then deliver it to the hospital, where he tested it to ensure it was ready, so the next day’s procedure would not have to be canceled. Gary truly embodies the Patient First Ethic.

“As I visit departments and clinics across our organization, I am reminded that every role matters,” Hartz continued in her address. “Whether you serve in nursing, clinics, finance, support services, environmental services, or countless other areas, your work is essential. Together, you make safe, compassionate, patient-centered care possible every day.”

For more information on Washington Health, visit WashingtonHealth.com.