The Hooverwood family gathered in celebration on Friday, August 8 for a retirement tribute to Pat Russell in honor of her 42 years of dedicated service to Hooverwood’s residents. In an industry that is challenged with high turnover of employees, Pat’s career at Hooverwood during the last four decades is truly remarkable.

Pat began her employment in 1972 soon after the closing of the Borinstein Home and the opening of Hooverwood at its current location. Pat, a registered nurse, started at Hooverwood as a staff nurse on the evening shift and eventually became a nursing supervisor, Assistant Director of Nursing, and was then promoted to Director of Nursing in 1995 upon the retirement of Barbara Horner (of blessed memory).

Pat has cared for generations of residents and has experienced the dramatic changes that has taken place in the industry over the years. She has been a mentor and role model to thousands of nursing students, licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants. Pat is directly responsible for developing the policies, procedures and standards of excellence that continue today and contribute to Hooverwood’s fine reputation in the Indianapolis community.

Pat consistently maintained a truly impressive work ethic. She would arrive at work early in the morning to greet the night shift, and her days continued into the evenings. During the various snow storms, Pat would simply “move in” to Hooverwood and sleep on a couch in order to assure that the residents’ needs would always be met.Pat was highly respected by the Hooverwood Board of Directors; Medical Directors, Patrick and Diane Healey; the Indianapolis healthcare community; and the National Association of Directors of Nursing.

Hooverwood congratulates Pat on her outstanding career and sincerely thanks her for her contributions to the organization. The staff and residents wish her the best of health, happiness and fun as she enjoys the golden years with her husband, children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.