A long-term employee at St. Anthony Regional Hospital has been named a 2021 Iowa Hospital Hero by the Iowa Hospital Association (IHA). Lisa Kouri, Director of Materials Management and Housekeeping, is being recognized for going above and beyond in her leadership role every day, but particularly through the pandemic. Her nomination letter said, “When COVID hit, it was Lisa that people turned to for leadership. She made sure we procured PPE and other necessary supplies with creativity. She would never accept no for an answer.” She also aided in developing agreements with other organizations, government agencies and vendors, all while overseeing the construction of the new $17.5 million cancer center.” “When I think of who is the most irreplaceable person at our hospital, Lisa comes to mind,” says Chief Financial Officer, John Munson. “It’s impossible to recognize all that she does for our organization. She runs our materials management and housekeeping departments, but that simply identifies her official roles. Lisa Kouri means so much more to St. Anthony than what her job description states. We deeply appreciate her commitment.” Kouri started at St. Anthony as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) in 1987 and over the years has worked as a messenger, surgical and pharmacy technician as well as a supply purchasing agent. She was promoted to her current role in 2002. “I am so honored and surprised to receive this award,” Kouri says. “There are so many others who are deserving and I’m glad to be among them. We have such a great team at St. Anthony.” Kouri and nine other hospital employees from across the state will be recognized for their heroic efforts during the pandemic and the August 2020 derecho at the IHA annual meeting on Oct. 6.
