Roosevelt Medical Center Announces Employee Of Quarter
Chasing squirrels. That is how Jeff Haus, Roosevelt Medical Center’s maintenance supervisor, describes a typical day. During every hour, and often after hours, he is in high demand for fixing, maintaining and cleaning the facility and grounds. Whether it is a broken wheelchair, a room in need of sanitizing or a project as large as a room remodel, staff know Haus will get it done.
His strong work ethic and genuine positivity are some of the reasons he was selected on Jan. 5, by fellow staff members as Employee of the Quarter for the months of October, November and December.
“Jeff is often the first person to raise his hand and volunteer to help out. His glass is always half-full and he is always willing to go the extra mile. No matter how hectic things get, he always prioritizes other people’s needs before his own, and takes the time to help,” said Liz Mogen, business office director.
Even as Haus is being interviewed about his nomination for this news story, he is busily hanging a 2021 wall calendar in the staff dining room. “Honestly, I am shocked and humbled to receive this recognition. I think it’s apparent I enjoy my job and look forward to coming to work every day. It’s gratifying to know that I can make a difference in the lives of our residents by providing them with a facility that is clean, safe and comfortable,” Haus said.
Haus manages a maintenance and environmental services department with four employees and often tackles tasks outside his normal duties while managing a long list of his own to-dos. From unclogging drains, fixing floor tiles, snow and ice removal, to assisting with moving residents into their rooms, his days pass quickly and often linger into the evening hours.
He participates in a number of hospital committees including safety, orientation and employee retention. He never misses a Roosevelt Memorial Healthcare Foundation fundraiser and is one of the first staff members to hand over a donation while also volunteering his time.
“I think Jeff’s laughter and good nature help to create a positive environment that is energizing and friendly. He also takes pride in his work and is very knowledgeable and committed to the projects he takes on,” said Zoe Fugere, family nurse practitioner.
Even during his personal time, he is committed to the RMC team. “When we get staff members who are new to the area, I like to take them out ice fishing or shooting and get them active in the lifestyle. I think it’s important to make them feel welcome and valued as a new member of the team,” he said.
Haus is responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of the building, a job compounded by other items that often need immediate attention. One of his greatest attributes might be his ability to adapt to evolving situations. While he might come to work with plans to complete one task, it often happens that his day becomes focused on something entirely different. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Haus has worked tirelessly through the dizzying amount of procedure changes to keep the staff and residents working and living in a safe environment.
While Haus tackles the day-today needs of the facility, he is often simultaneously working on larger projects. Some of them include the completion of the new CT suite, installation of the back-up generator and facility-wide flooring. He also updated the landscaping in the parking area and entrance.
Haus’s next project will be to oversee the upcoming facility remodel which will bring the clinic services upstairs and enhance isolation capabilities for hospital patients. This project is possible through federal COVID-19 funding sources and is slated for completion this summer.
Haus joined RMC in 2017 when he relocated with his wife of 37 years, Darlene, to the area to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. Haus immediately became active in the community as a Lions Club member as well as a local youth baseball and hockey coach.
