The Nicolet College Foundation awarded its 2009 Friends and Partners Award to the Northern Wisconsin Long Term Care Workforce.

The organization was selected for the honor for its diligent work with the college in planning and implementing continuing education classes to meet the needs of employees and employers in the long term care industry.

The network also advocates for direct care worker training, builds pride in the profession, and works to enhance the image of long term care workers.

Receiving the award were Sandy Bishop, Nicolet Customized Training Coordinator; Pam Rau, AGI Healthcare; Pat Richardson, Taylor Park and Friendly Village; Cindy Robinson, Aspirus Lillian Kerr; Janet Neurauter, Nicolet College Foundation; Lenore Mangles, Nicolet Dean of Health Occupations; Nancy Ellis, Aspirus Lillan Kerr; Tina Hahner, Golden Living Centers; and Ruth Raymond, Cumberland Heights.

Long Term Care Network members unable to make the presentation include Gayle Rutlin, Aspirus Wausau Hospital; Dori Jensen, Ministry Home Care, Sherry Fechter, Taylor Park Nursing and Rehab; Maureen O’Melia, Grace Lodge; Julie St. Pierre, Alzheimer’s Association; Christy Daley, Long Term Care Ombudsman; and Debbie Jones, Nicolet College Community and Business Education.