April Employee Spotlight
Meet Nancy Varick | South Dakota MSW, Volunteer Coordinator
We value the hard work and dedication of our empathetic and adaptable team; we'd like to introduce you to Nancy Varick, Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator from our South Dakota agency. Nancy is being recognized this month for her outstanding performance with our volunteer program, genuine commitment to our patients and families, and exceptional teamwork.
We recently interviewed Nancy to gain insight into her day-to-day life as a Stillwater Hospice team member and beyond:
Stillwater Hospice: What year did you start with Stillwater Hospice:
Nancy: I started as a hospice social worker in 2014; at Stillwater Hospice in 2022.
Stillwater Hospice: What would you be if you weren't so dang good at your current job?
Nancy: Resting on the couch or in my hammock.
Stillwater Hospice: What is the best advice you have ever received?
Nancy: When a hospice patient once told me how tired she was of being asked how she was feeling, and suggested instead that I ask, "How's your day?" I have done that ever since.
Stillwater Hospice: What would your superpower be if you were a superhero?
Nancy: Persistence! Or maybe overuse of exclamation points...
Stillwater Hospice: Cats or dogs; do you have any?
Nancy: I love both, especially cats! I have a Norwegian Forest Cat named Vance.
Stillwater Hospice: What is your favorite word in the English language?
Nancy: Mellifluous.
Stillwater Hospice: What advice would you give a candidate who wants to join our team of superstars?
Nancy: Our job is the best. We get to meet all the wisest people, and the leaders truly value us.
Stillwater Hospice: What's the most inspiring part of your job?
Nancy: Meeting so many courageous and kind people, even in the face of death.
Stillwater Hospice: What is the most important thing you learned as a child?
Nancy: To always stick up for the underdog! Thanks Mom. :)
When I was 5, I was sure I'd be a [JOB/PROFESSION] when I grew up.
Nancy: Proprietor of a donut shop
Stillwater Hospice: What else would you like us to know?
Nancy: For a social worker, hospice has it all: service, integrity, relationships, dignity, and self-determination for our patients... I feel fortunate every day to have the honor of doing this work.
Thank you for your hard work and commitment to hospice; our patients and families appreciate your services. Keep up the compassionate work and upbeat attitude!
