THE GRAND BALLROOM | OCEANSIDE, CA
SEPTEMBER 6, 2024
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
In 2023, Kattie Hayden opened Sunshine Market and Refillery, a grocery store that is known for its sustainability and zero waste e orts, including reducing single-use packaging and litter in our community. Kattie provides the opportunity for community members to shop a ordably and sustainably. By sourcing products from local makers, Kattie is not only supporting the area economy but also fostering a sense of community. Plus, o ering classes on herb gardening and sourdough making adds a fun and educational element for residents.
OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE COUNTRY & COMMUNITY AWARD
COL. DANIEL WHITLEY, USMC (RET.)
From the Summer of 2020 until last Month, Col. Daniel Whitley was Camp Pendleton’s liaison to the Chamber and Oceanside Community. He was instrumental in fostering a stronger relationship between the Base and the communities that surround it. Col. Whitley served as an advisor on the Chamber’s Board of Directors and was a co-chair of the task force that created the Award-Winning Oceanside Leadership Academy. Col. Whitley’s dedication and service have left an indelible mark on our country and community.
Congratulations to Sunshine Market and Refillery for its sustainability and zero waste e orts, including reducing single-use packaging and litter in our community.
PROGRAM the
COCKTAILS & SEATING
PRESENTED BY | SCOTT ASHTON & TRACY CHIN OCEANSIDE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE A FEW WORDS FROM OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS
REMARKS FROM MAYOR SANCHEZ
FIRE & LIFEGUARD AWARDS
PRESENTED BY | OCEANSIDE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER RICK ROBINSON
POLICE DEPARTMENT AWARDS
PRESENTED BY | DEPUTY MAYOR RYAN KEIM
EDUCATION AWARDS
PRESENTED BY | DR. KRISTEN GONZALES, MIRACOSTA COLLEGE
HEALTHCARE AWARDS
PRESENTED BY | AARON BYZAK, CANDIDATE TRI-CITY HEALTHCARE DISTRICT BOARD
MILITARY AWARDS
PRESENTED BY | COL. DANIEL WHITLEY, USMC (RET.)
COMMUNITY & BUSINESS AWARDS
NON-PROFIT OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award recognizes a nonprofit organization that has consistently made a significant impact in its community. The Mottino Family YMCA continues to fulfill their mission to empower our community members to be healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA believes a strong community can only be achieved when we invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors. Their programs contribute to the positive quality of life in Oceanside by fostering youth development, promoting healthy living, and advancing social responsibility.
COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD
Quality events that engage and enlighten our community are instrumental to the quality of life we enjoy in Oceanside. Kevin Shin and the team at the Nowell Family Foundation along with Haley Riggi and Regina Stone created a new Oceanside event that is all about embracing a sublime life free from addiction. Inspired by late Sublime front man Bradley Nowell, the Nowell Family Foundation provides addiction recovery services to the community and have positively impacted Oceanside with the creation of A Sublime Life Sobriety Festival.
OCEANSIDE YOUNG
PROFESSIONAL (OYP) AWARD
ANDREINA RIOS
The mission of OYP is to connect young professionals looking to grow their social circles, expand their networks, and create lasting connections through communication and collaboration. Members of OYP are helping to provide our community with a strong future. Andy has gone above and beyond to achieve these goals in many ways, but most importantly, by following the first rule of networking: consistently showing up!
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD
CHRIS WIENER
This award recognizes a business leader who demonstrates courage, ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit. Chris started his business, Premier Printing Company from the ground up after leaving employment in the same industry. He has now his own team and is continually looking to grow. Despite his incredibly busy schedule he finds time to give back through mentorship and volunteering in the business community.
Oceanside
FIRE DEPARTMENT AWARDEES
On the morning of April 9, 2024, the Oceanside Fire Department responded to a report of a residential structure fire on South Pacific Street. Multiple 9-1-1 callers reported smoke and flames coming from the rear of the house and someone still inside. The crew of Engine 211, which included Captain Rocky Rehberg, Engineer Tim Badillo, and Matt Murguia, arrived on the scene first to find a two-story apartment with an interior fire and dense smoke. The crew deployed a fire hose and searched the building. As they approached the residence, a police o cer informed them that the resident had barricaded themselves in the structure.
Fully aware that a barricaded subject presents a significant hazard to rescuers, Captain Rehberg and his crew made the heroic decision to continue the search for a savable life.
With the assistance of Engine 212, crews searched through the smoke and located a victim in the living room on the second story. The individual was unconscious and in severe distress. While crews continued to fight back the flames, the victim was removed down the stairs and transferred to awaiting paramedics. The victim was transported to the burn center and survived to discharge. Without the actions of the crew on Engine 211, the victim would not have survived.
ROCKY REHBERG FIRE CAPTAIN
Captain Rocky Rehberg started with the Oceanside Fire Department in 2000 and was promoted to captain in 2011. He grew up in South Oceanside and has served the community on engine, brush, and truck companies. Rocky takes a strong sense of ownership of the community he serves and strives daily to exemplify quality customer service.
TIM BADILLO FIRE ENGINEER
Engineer Tim Badillo has been with the Oceanside Fire Department since 2001 and was promoted to the rank of Fire Engineer in 2017. He takes great pride in his job and has accumulated a vast knowledge base through his years of experience. He has worked much of his career in the downtown area at Fire Station 1, one of Oceanside’s busiest firehouses.
6, 2024
SPONSOR
OF THE YEAR AWARD
Major events like our luncheon today could not occur without corporate sponsorship. As a nonprofit, the Oceanside Chamber relies on the support of our businesses to help us deliver quality events to our community. Oceanside Therapy Group has a special love for our military community, and they regularly go above and beyond to support events like today’s Heroes Luncheon and our Armed Forces Day Operation Appreciation.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Since 1981, Oceanside Sea Lions have sponsored the Miss Oceanside Pageant. This pageant provides scholarships to 8 winners and helps develop self-esteem, confidence, and poise in all contestants. The winners become goodwill ambassadors to the City of Oceanside, the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, and the Oceanside Sea Lions Club by taking time out of their busy schedules to support our community. They assist at Chamber mixers by selling ra e tickets to help raise money for Rising Stars Scholarships, show support at ribbon cuttings for new businesses, and volunteer at many community events in Oceanside.
OCEANSIDE IMPACT AWARD
“The Lunch Box” is a new and innovative food truck designed to provide free, healthy, homemade meals to youth in North County. This groundbreaking initiative is more than just a meal service, it is a collaboration with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego’s Teen Workforce Development Program, C.O.O.K (Culinary Options and Opportunities for Kids). C.O.O.K. o ers teens valuable hands-on experience in culinary arts and restaurant management. “The Lunch Box,” is not just helping youth and Club members—it’s uplifting an entire community.
CERTIFIED KINDNESS COMPANY AWARD
The Kindness Certification is a partnership with the Non-Profit Kids for Peace, and recognizes businesses that are good to their people, community, planet and world. Logan McEniry and his team at Oceanside Ace Hardware exemplify the values outlined in the Kindness program as they constantly seek to create a great experience for their customers and community.
AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR AWARD: DANA ALBERT
DANA ALBERT
The Ambassador of the Year is awarded to a Chamber Ambassador that exemplifies volunteerism, supports chamber functions, such as ribbon cuttings, mixers, and major events, and demonstrates a willingness to help with any activities that may come along. Dana has gone above and beyond for the Chamber and community, and we are pleased to recognize him for his dedication.
MATT MURGUIA FIREFIGHTER
Firefighter Matt Murguia has been with the Oceanside Fire Department since 2018 and is currently assigned to A-shift at Fire Station 1. Matt is a highly qualified senior firefighter with an array of technical certifications and experiences that have added value to the organization and his fellow firefighters.
In a testament to their unwavering bravery and expertise, the Oceanside Fire Department's first responders faced a daunting challenge on April 25th when a massive fire erupted at the end of the pier. Within a swift response time, 40 personnel and 17 units were on site within just 6 minutes and 30 seconds, with the first engine arriving in under 5 minutes, and the marine safety boat putting the first water on the fire in less than 9 minutes. As the intensity of the blaze escalated, a second alarm drew an additional 30 personnel and 14 units to the scene. Over the course of a grueling three-day operation, these firefighters and responders exhibited relentless determination, battling significant heat and smoke hazards compounded by the complexities of firefighting over water. Their technical knowledge and valor were pivotal in containing and extinguishing the flames, ultimately preserving 93% of Oceanside's beloved pier. Thanks to the concerted e orts of the Oceanside Fire Department and collaborating agencies, their heroic actions safeguarded a vital community asset from destruction.
For more info contact Sophie at Sophie@OceansideChamber.com
mailed to 1,000s of Oceanside homes & businesses each quarter + now distributed on Camp Pendleton
LIFEGUARD AWARDEES
The Oceanside Pier caught fire on April 25th, 2024 at 1500 hours. Multiple personnel, vessels, and apparatus responded along with aerial support. Multiple City departments and agencies neighboring Oceanside also answered the call to help save our iconic pier. The list of those who came together that day and the days afterwards to contribute and impact the firefight is vast. This large-scale fire resulted in no injuries to the public or any first responders. We would be honored for the Chamber to recognize the Lifeguards that swiftly cleared the pier and the Marine Safety Unit crew that first put water on the fire. Those names and assignments that day are as follows: Lifeguard Dispatcher: Lucas Buckman, Lifeguard Unit 2173: Teagan Cannon and Cooper Edgar, Lifeguard Captain: Bill Curtis, Marine Safety Unit Boat 2165: Lifeguard Sergeant Matthew Mattison, Firefighter Paramedic Ryan Thorne, and Senior Beach Lifeguard/Deckhand: Anders Hamborg.
BILL CURTIS
LIFEGUARD CAPTAIN
Lifeguard Captain Bill Curtis has been at the helm of the Oceanside Lifeguard Division for over 25 years. He embodies his mantra of “Family First” to his sta , colleagues, and community. He cleared the pier and ensured that all lifeguards and the public were safe that day as he has done every day on our beaches, harbor, and the pier where his o ce is located. He enjoys spending time with his wife Whitney, his immediate, extended, and City of Oceanside family, but most of all his grandkids.
LUCAS BUCKMAN
SENIOR BEACH LIFEGUARD
Lucas Buckman was hired in 2014. He was promoted to the position of Senior Beach Lifeguard in 2023. He grew up in Oceanside and the Junior Lifeguard Program. He was also a Junior Lifeguard Instructor for 5 years teaching the youth of our community how to be safe in the ocean. Lucas enjoys all things related to ocean sport and mixed martial arts.
TEAGAN CANNON
LIFEGUARD
Teagan Cannon became an Oceanside Lifeguard in 2021. He enjoys working at the beaches in Oceanside and also lifeguarding on the Colorado River. He is an avid surfer and snowboarder. Teagan has been accepted to the Palomar College Fire Academy and hopes to follow that with Paramedic school shortly after
COOPER EDGAR
LIFEGUARD
Cooper Edgar has been lifeguarding in Oceanside since 2014. He likes to work on fabrication and welding projects in his o time. He enjoys bodysurfing daily. His future goals include pursuing a career in Advanced Emergency Medical Services.
MATTHEW MATTISON
LIFEGUARD
SERGEANT
Lifeguard Sergeant Matthew Mattison operated Boat 2165 throughout the first 24hrs of the fire. He has been serving Oceanside as a lifeguard since 2009 and was promoted to Beach Lifeguard Sergeant in 2023 from the position Senior Beach Lifeguard. He is assigned to the Marine Safety Unit. He enjoys fishing, boating, playing the drums, and spending time with his wife Hannah and their dog Ace.
RYAN THORNE
FIREFIGHTER PARAMEDIC
Firefighter Paramedic Ryan Thorne led the vessel-based fire attack throughout the first 24-hours of the fire. He was hired by the Oceanside Fire Department in 2015. He has proudly served the community at Fire Station 1 (Downtown) seven of the nine years that he has worked in Oceanside. He joined the Marine Safety Unit upon inception and worked the first shift. Ryan enjoys camping, traveling, and going to the beach with his wife and three kids.
ANDERS HAMBORG
SENIOR BEACH LIFEGUARD
Anders Hamborg was the Senior Beach Lifeguard-Deckhand aboard Boat 2165 the day of the fire. He was hired in 2023 and is assigned to the Marine Safety Unit. He worked as a lifeguard for the City of Huntington Beach before coming to Oceanside. Anders enjoys rock climbing and body surfing. He married his beautiful wife Kate two years ago and they like to go out for udon noodles. He has four brothers that are all also ocean lifeguards.
HOSPITAL CORPSMAN SECOND CLASS JENNIFER MELENDEZ
UNITED STATES NAVY
Hospital Corpsman Second Class Jennifer Melendez enlisted in the United States Navy on August 2015. Upon graduation of basic training she completed both Hospital Corpsman “A” School and Dental Assistant “C” school at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas. In April 2022, she attended FMTB-W and checked into 1st Dental Battalion in October 2022. Petty O cer Melendez assumed the duties as 22 Area Dental Work Center Supervisor. Her responsibilities include dental manning, dental readiness, Supply Petty O cer, Facilities manager, and Equipment manager. July 2023, she was promoted to her current rank. HM2 Melendez was Junior Sailor of the quarter, 1st Quarter, FY-24 for 1st Dental Battalion and 1st MLG for leading 18 sta members during daily operations that resulted in obtaining an Operational Dental Readiness of 95 percent.
In March 2024, she earned her Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Qualification.
HOSPITALMAN FOLAJIMI OGUNSAKIN
UNITED STATES NAVY
Hospitalman Folajimi Ogunsakin joined the United States Navy in February, 2022, where he then completed boot camp at Recruit Training Command (RTC) Great Lakes, IL. Upon completion of boot camp in May 2022, he attended Hospital Corpsman “A” school at Fort Sam Houston, TX, followed by Dental Assistant “C” school. He then reported to his first duty station, 23rd Dental Company, 1st Dental Battalion, Twentynine Palms, CA in January 2023. Within his first three months onboard, he earned the Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist (EFMFWS) qualification. His significant achievements include the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) tan belt certification, and Basic Life Support (BLS) Instructor qualification. His exceptional performance was recognized through his selection as the Blue Jacket of the Quarter for 1st Dental battalion and 1st Marine Logistics Group. HN Ogunsakin assisted eight providers in the delivery of dental care for more than 750 Marines, Sailors, and their beneficiaries.
MILITARY AWARDEES Camp Pendleton
CORPORAL SPENCER R. FORD
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Corporal Spencer Ford enlisted into the Marine Corps and underwent recruit training at Company C, 1st Recruit Training Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC. In June 2022, Private First Class Ford completed Motor Vehicle Operations Command at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri In June 2023, Lance Corporal Ford executed temporary assigned duty orders back to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri to conduct the Vehicle Recovery Course (VRC) 5-23, where he was recognized as the Gung-Ho Marine in his class. Upon completion of VRC, Lance Corporal Ford returned to 11th Marine Regiment to hold the billet as the Vehicle Recovery Chief for Headquarters Battery. During his tenure he conducted multiple vehicle recovery operations, also assisted 1st Marine Division with vehicle recoveries for various training exercises in area of operations in Camp Pendleton and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) Twentynine Palms. Corporal Ford’s award is the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (Gold Star in the Lieu of Second Award).
POLICE DEPT. AWARDEES Oceanside
JAMAL DANIELS
2023 POLICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR
In 2023, O cer Jamal Daniels was directly involved in three firearm related incidents at El Camino High School. He obtained information that a student was possessing a firearm while on campus, identified and located the teen, and subsequently seized what turned out to be replica firearms. This is just one of many instances that demonstrated his exemplary professionalism, commitment, and compassion in his role as our School Resource O cer and he has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, sta , and community members. O cer Daniels is always approachable, attentive, and supportive, making students feel safe and valued. His participation in our Oceanside Youth Partnership confirms his reach goes well beyond the school setting.
JESSICA CALLINAN
2023 PROFESSIONAL STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR
CORPORAL SHAR P. DAH
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
Corporal Shar P. Dah enlisted in the Marine Corps in July 2022 and completed Recruit Training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego, California (CA). Upon completion of entry level training, Private Dah reported to Naval Justice School where he earned the military occupational specialty of 4421, Legal Service Specialist. In April 2023, he reported to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton where he served as Trial Services Clerk. In June 2024, Corporal Dah was meritoriously promoted to his current rank. Corporal Dah's personal awards include two Certificates of Commendation and one Meritorious Mast. Corporal Dah was Marine of the quarter for the first quarter of 2024 for superior performance in his duties as a trial services clerk and was selected as the winner of the MCI-West meritorious corporal board.
Jessica Callinan was hired in January 2021 as the department’s first Digital Forensics Analyst. Her arrival at OPD was the first step in building a new unit designed to help meet the increasing need for digital forensics as an investigative tool. Since that time, through partnership with the Secret Service, Jessica developed the specialized skills required for the forensic examination of cell phones, computers, and video evidence. Through this training, and with an inventory of new equipment and software programs, our department is now equipped with a fully operational, self-su cient Digital Forensics Unit.
In 2023, Jessica worked over 96 total cases, processed 170 pieces of evidence, and examined 34 TB of data – the equivalent of 6.5 million pages of paper. In addition to this substantial caseload, Jessica responds to several critical incidents, providing crucial assistance in the acquisition and processing of digital evidence.
SCHOOL DISTRICT AWARDEES UNIFIED Oceanside
LEAH RITT
OUSD TEACHER OF THE YEAR
With twelve years of unwavering commitment to OUSD, Leah Ritt has left an indelible mark on Oceanside High School (OHS) through her exceptional leadership and passion for music education. Leah's transformative impact on our show choir and guitar elective has elevated our school's performing arts programs to new heights, earning recognition as one of the finest in San Diego County. Her inclusive teaching style fosters an environment where every student feels valued and
LUIS CASILLAS
OUSD TEACHER OF THE YEAR
MARIA DOLORES RAMOS
LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE
Maria Dolores Ramos has been with Kaiser Permanente for 15 years. She recently received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and is one of our most seasoned licensed vocational nurses (LVN) at the Kaiser Permanente Oceanside Medical O ce. Maria holds several leadership roles at the Kaiser Permanente Oceanside Medical O ce. She is a representative on the Unit Based Team – Labor Management Partnership and serves as our sta quality champion. As a high-performer, Maria is often a role model for other nurses. She holds the highest nursing care and concern service score among all the nurses and with her physician, they have the highest quality scores. Outside of work, Maria enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and volunteering her time with rescue animals.
Luis Casillas, with nine years of dedication to OUSD, embodies a passion for language and culture that inspires his students to excel. Through his high standards and innovative instructional methods, Luis equips students with practical Spanish literacy skills and prepares them for future academic pursuits. Luis is one of only a few teachers in the state to teach AP Spanish to 8th grade students. Since his first class took the test in 2022 65% of his students scored a 3 or higher. In 2023 80% of his students scored a 3 or higher.
MELISSA HARTMAN
OUSD EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Melissa Hartman has been a cornerstone of support at Palmquist Elementary School for the past decade. Her gracious demeanor, compassion, and creative problem-solving skills have created a welcoming and e cient school environment. Melissa's positive attitude and proactive approach to her responsibilities have significantly enhanced the school's operations, earning her the admiration of colleagues and students alike.
6, 2024
CHRISTINE LERMA
NURSE MANAGER
We are proud to nominate Christine Lerma, the nurse manager of our SMC Je erson Urgent Care Center, for her dedication, patient-centeredness, and exceptional leadership, which have profoundly impacted the quality of healthcare in our community. She regularly exemplifies commitment to her team and to patient care, consistently assisting in medical emergencies, including all “code blues” occurring within the medical center. Her leadership helped her department earn Scripps’ first ever "Guardians of Excellence" award from a national reporting agency for achieving top decile patient experience scores. Christine has also improved ambulance turnaround times by partnering with local stakeholders, benefiting the department as well as many Oceanside communities. Her relentless dedication, compassionate care, and servant leadership make her a true Healthcare Hero. We honor her outstanding achievements and contributions to our healthcare system and community well-being.
Kaiser Permanente
HEALTHCARE AWARDEES
DR. CANDACE SPROTT
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. Candace Sprott is a dual-board-certified internal medicine and pediatrics physician with over a decade of experience in delivering the highest quality patient care and healthcare facility administration. As the Physician in Charge (PIC) at Kaiser Permanente’s Oceanside Medical
O ce, she manages physician operations to meet patient care needs, implements processes for preventative and chronic disease care, coordinates care and resources across neighboring medical o ces, coaches and mentors her direct reports and resolves patient complaints. She always meets and/or exceeds the quality of care and patient satisfaction targets as defined by regional and local leadership. A proud Marine wife, and mother of three active boys, in her (limited) spare time Dr. Sprott enjoys reading, golfing, self-care spa days, and connecting with friends near & far.
DONALD VIVIAN
OUSD EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Donald Vivian, with seven years of dedicated service, exemplifies the spirit of care and mentorship at Surfside. Beyond his role as a campus supervisor, Donald serves as a trusted mentor and source of support for students, fostering meaningful connections and guiding them toward success both academically and emotionally.
HEALTHCARE AWARDEES
Ken Hoskins is a Network Engineer in the Information Systems Department at Tri-City Medical Center (TCMC). He has been part of the TCMC family for 24 years. Amongst his myriad responsibilities, he designs, manages and troubleshoots TCMC’s computer network, ensuring that it is stable, e cient and secure for all users. During TCMC’s recent cyber intrusion, Ken and his colleagues worked tirelessly to bring critical network infrastructure back online to nearly 1,500 employees working both in the hospital as well as at its healthcare a liates. Ken is a proud local, who ‘loves everything about living in Oceanside’ where he has resided for over 30 years.
CHARA COTE
NURSE COORDINATOR - EMERGENCY
Chara Cote serves as the Base Hospital Nurse Coordinator in the Emergency Department (ED). In this role, she acts as a liaison between fire services, paramedics, and EMTs, facilitating communication and collaboration. Additionally, she provides support to the ED sta , ensuring e cient operations and patient care. Chara has been in her current role at TCMC for 8 years. Her background is in trauma and emergency nursing. Chara has lived in Oceanside for over 20 years. One of her favorite aspects of working at TCMC is the opportunity to serve the community in which she resides.
HEALTHCARE AWARDEES TrueCare
DR. EDWARD CURLEY
PEDIATRICS
Dr. Edward Curley has nearly two decades of pediatric experience and prioritizes care by taking a holistic approach to addressing the unique needs of his patients. Learning about the various cultures of those he serves has greatly impacted Dr. Curley’s practice, enabling him to help the “whole” child in the context of the family, addressing the child’s emotional and medical needs. “I consider it my mission in life to preserve and foster the health of children, especially those who are most vulnerable.” His dedication and compassion have been evident throughout his entire career. Thank you, Dr. Curley, for being a health care hero!
DR. SUZANNE SCHWEIKERT, MD
OB/GYN
Dr. Schweikert has been an OB-GYN for over two decades, valuing the relationships she builds with both patients and sta . Dr. Schwikert’s approach to health care is centered around respect and a willingness to listen to and meet people where they are. She believes health care is a human right, and that community health can only thrive when we prioritize care for the most vulnerable. “I believe it is important to individualize treatment to best meet each person’s needs. Medicine is not a one-size-fits-all, and my patients remind me of that every day.” TrueCare thanks Dr. Schweikert for always leading with an open heart. She is truly a health care hero!
HEALTHCARE AWARDEES Scripps
KATIE MASON, RN
REGISTERED NURSE
Scripps Medical Center, Je erson is proud to nominate Katie Mason, RN, for her unwavering commitment to patient care. Since joining Scripps in 2018, she has held various roles, all driven by her desire to give more of herself to her patients and community. Katie’s customer service and bedside manner are exemplary and can be easily proven by the countless mentions in patient experience survey comments. Whether it’s assisting a during a procedure, to ensuring her patients are recovering well, she is unforgettable because her kindness and empathy is unmatched. Katie is considered a role model and has made a lasting impression in our Oceanside community; she is a true Healthcare Hero.