Cherry office worker honored
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on April 27, 2005 1:49 PM
An office assistant who also sings and faithfully follows "American Idol" has been named this year's outstanding administrative professional at Cherry Hospital.
Richard Phillips has worked in the Royster Nursing Office since November 2004. One nominator called the office a more pleasant place to work and visit since his arrival.
"Wow!" Phillips said when his name was called during a celebration at the hospital on Monday. "Can I say that backwards? Wow!"
Phillips generously shared credit in his acceptance speech.
"I would not be fair if I didn't first thank Jesus Christ for His love and mercy," he said. "He woke me up this morning in my right mind ... I'm here because of Him.
"Second of all, I receive this award today on behalf of every one of you precious people sitting here today because you work so hard to do what you do."
Phillips said he has a true admiration for the work done by administrative professionals and thanked his peers for having welcomed him so openly from the time he arrived.
Dr. James Osberg III, interim hospital director, made the presentation to Phillips, but not without first acknowledging the entire administrative staff.
"All of you are outstanding," he said. "There's no question about that."
Citing Phillips for going above and beyond outstanding, Osberg said the office worker came to the medical facility with no medical background but has been a quick study.
"Richard has brought a new life and energy to the nursing office," he read from one nomination sheet. "He encourages interaction, is very approachable and is never too busy to provide assistance to any employee who may need it."
Phillips is also minister of music at Adamsville Church of God. His singing talents were featured during Monday morning's program when he sang "You Raise Me Up" by Josh Groban.
"We're doubly blessed to have him on our staff," Osberg said afterwards.