Delaware team recognitions: 1st Quarter 2026

Administrative & Support Services: Andrew Hawkins, Security Guard, Protection Services 

Andrew “Hawk” Hawkins is such an important part of the Emergency Department team. When he is here, the team feels more secure knowing that he will step up to help in any situation. His presence brings reassurance to the team, and they know they can depend on him no matter what challenges arise during a shift.

He consistently goes above and beyond to support the team. Whether it is helping move or lift something, stepping in to solve a problem or offering assistance before anyone even asks, he is always willing to help. He truly is a “jack of all trades,” and when the team cannot figure something out, Hawkins is often the first person to jump in and find a solution.

His saying, “What do you need?” reflects exactly who he is. Throughout the day, he regularly says, “I’ll help you,” and he always follows through. Hawkins treats both patients and coworkers with respect and compassion, helping create the supportive environment valued in the ED. His dedication, teamwork and willingness to help make him an incredible asset, and many team members in the ED feel he is truly one of the best. here…

Professional Services: Julie Thornton, Pulmonary Function Technician, Pulmonary Function 

Julie Thornton, RRT, BS, CPFT, has dedicated 35 years of service to TidalHealth Nanticoke, bringing exceptional experience, commitment and compassion to the patients and teams she supports. Throughout her career, Thornton has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a dedication to providing high-quality care.

She is always looking for ways to improve processes and better serve patients. Over the past year, she increased testing volume by an impressive 17% by revamping the scheduling process and maintaining consistent communication with patients to ensure testing is completed before practitioner visits whenever possible. She also works to fill scheduling gaps with patients who have pending orders, helping maximize efficiency and improve patient access to care.

In addition to her pulmonary function testing responsibilities, she willingly supports other departments by assisting the neuro lab, providing blood gas collection services for the outpatient lab and contributing to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation patient education. Her versatility and teamwork make her an invaluable resource.

Pulmonary function technicians and respiratory therapists are often the unseen healthcare heroes, providing education, testing, support and advocacy that are vital to achieving clear diagnoses and quality patient care. Thornton is one of those hardworking, behind-the-scenes employees whose dedication, initiative and years of service make her truly deserving of recognition.

Nursing Services: Kendra Briggs, Certified Surgical Technologist, Progressive Care Unit

Kendra Briggs brings dedication, compassion and a strong team-first mindset to her role every day. As a highly respected CST and valued member of the team, she is known for her dependability and unwavering willingness to support both patients and coworkers, especially during demanding shifts and busy moments within the unit.

The individual who nominated Briggs shared that her commitment to patient care is evident in everything she does. Even during the busiest times, she remains focused on delivering attentive, compassionate and high-quality care while maintaining a calm and professional presence. Her genuine concern for patients and consistent attention to their needs make a meaningful difference in the care experience.

What makes Briggs especially deserving of recognition is her positive outlook and selfless approach to teamwork. She approaches every shift without complaint and is always ready to step in and assist wherever needed. Whether supporting her colleagues or caring for patients, Briggs leads by example through her kindness, work ethic and dedication. She is not only an exceptional coworker but also an invaluable asset to the unit, and the impact she makes each day does not go unnoticed.

Nursing Services: Cody Mitchell, RN, Progressive Care Unit

Cody Mitchell exemplifies teamwork, leadership and compassion in action. During a particularly overwhelming shift, the Emergency Department was operating at full capacity and preparing to go on divert while actively caring for three intubated patients. The demands on the team were exceptionally high, and everyone was working quickly to provide the best possible care under intense circumstances.

The individual who nominated Mitchell shared, “I got a call to start an ultrasound IV; I asked Cody if he wouldn't mind doing that IV for me. He agreed to help me, then went on to start multiple other IVs without even being asked.  Cody is always a team player and going above and beyond.”

Mitchell consistently demonstrates what it means to be a leader. This experience is just one example of the many ways he makes a meaningful impact. Mitchell is an incredible asset to the night shift and to TidalHealth as a whole, and his dedication, teamwork and commitment to patient care do not go unnotice