ST. JAMES, Mo. - Veterans receive a homelike and safe quality of care from Felicia Studeny, a CNA at the Missouri Veterans Home in St. James.
She has a passion for making the veterans feel special and cared for, said the nursing staff who nominated her for the State Employee of the Month.
"Her coworkers say she always puts 200 percent into everything she does, and with a smile on her face," the nomination said.
Several years ago, Studeny worked at the home as a new CNA and received the Rookie of the Year award. She returned about a year ago, after rearing her children.
She brought back the same kindness and helpfulness.
"She has only improved in every aspect of her ability as one of the best CNAs ever," the nomination said.
She offered her coworkers a place to stay during inclement weather, so they could make their shifts. And she volunteers to work wherever there is a need.
The veterans enjoy her, whether it's applying nail polish for a female resident or stopping to chit-chat.
The nomination included a scenario where Studeny built a relationship with a veteran who had difficulty communicating and had significant war injuries.
After building trust, he began to ask her questions and she was able to gain insight for staff to provide the best care possible for him.
Those who nominated her also saw how Studeny inspires her coworkers and models excellence as a way to honor veterans.
Studeny has a "daily ability in knowing specific veteran needs and preferences, giving the best, home-like, safe quality care in every interaction every day," the nomination said. "How blessed we are to have this champion on our team."
Missouri's State Employee of the Month is selected by the State Employee of the Month Selection Committee from among nominations submitted by the 16 state departments and some elected offices. The six committee members also are members of the State Training Advisory Council.