More than 30 years ago, Patsy Tennon found herself at a crossroads, searching for a job to support her family.
With her previous experience as a restaurant manager, Patsy came to St. Dominic Hospital, taking an available role in the dish room. It became the first step on an incredible journey of growth to her current position as director of environmental services and laundry for the hospital.
from entry-level to leadership
Patsy’s ambition and work ethic were evident, and within a year of starting in the dish room she approached her leader about moving up.
“I wanted to be a manager,” Patsy says. With the organization’s support she received the necessary training and steadily climbed the ranks, taking on roles including diet technician, cafeteria manager, operations manager of food service and laundry director.
cleaning as care
Patsy’s dedication to her work is rooted in her belief that cleanliness plays a crucial role in healing.
“Cleaning the rooms is part of the healing process,” she says. “A clean room is a healing room.” She finds inspiration in seeing patients recover and go home, knowing her work contributes to their well-being.
creating moments that matter
Patsy has countless memories of how her work has made a difference, but one stands out. While Patsy was working in the laundry department, a patient’s daughter lost her favorite teddy bear.
Patsy went above and beyond, sorting through loads of laundry to find the bear.
“It was a small moment, but it made a big impact,” Patsy recalls. “She was so happy to get her teddy bear back.”
investing in others: passion for her team
Patsy’s dedication extends beyond her career growth to the well-being and development of her team.
“St. Dominic’s invested in me, and now it’s my turn to invest in my team members,” she says. Many of the team members within her department have not graduated from high school, so Patsy encourages and supports them in obtaining their GEDs.
“When I hire people, I expect them to stay with housekeeping at least six months and go get other training or go to school,” Patsy says. “I push them out of the nest to fly if they desire.”
Patsy’s leadership style is rooted in listening to her team members, offering support and understanding.
“I often have to be mother, pastor and financial adviser to my team,” she explains. Patsy also feels heard by her leaders, having open and supportive relationships. “I’m able to be me. I don’t have to curb it.”
balancing work with life
For Patsy, the health system’s support has been instrumental not only in her professional life but also in her personal life.
“My husband and I put three kids through college,” she says. One of those children, Taneshia, now also works at St. Dominic’s as a pharmacy technician.
Over the past few years, Patsy has found a balance between work and home, thanks to the ministry’s mission and core values.
“I feel supported mentally and physically, Patsy says. “I’m never unhappy coming to work.”
looking ahead
As she approaches retirement, Patsy plans to continue her involvement with St. Dominic’s by volunteering.
“I’m in the walls, in the floor, I’m here. I’m the fabric of this place,” she says with pride. She encourages others seeking stability, excitement and purpose to join the organization, confident that they will find a supportive and fulfilling workplace.
“This is the best community to work for,” she says. “You’ll have teamwork, a good support system and many people to ask for help along the way.”
Patsy is a vital part of the St. Dominic community, and her legacy will continue to inspire others for years to come.
