2024 Employee of the Year Announced

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2024
 
North 65 Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 Employee of the Year Award Recipient
 
The North 65 Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Debra Torkildson, Executive Assistant at Cambridge Medical Center-Allina Health, as its 2024 Employee of the Year Award recipient.  The award recognizes Debra's remarkable contributions, dedication, and exemplary performance throughout her years of service.

An excerpt from Debra’s nomination includes, “Cambridge Medical Center has been fortunate to have Deb’s quiet, diligent, and strong leadership for the past 42 years. Her knowledge of CMC’s history, policies, and procedures is unmatched. Despite her significant contributions, Deb never seeks recognition or takes credit for her work. Deb is a person with integrity beyond reproach.  Her unwavering commitment to her role is genuinely admirable.”

Debra and nine additional award nominees were recognized for their exceptional work ethic, leadership, and positive impact on their workplace at the 40^th Annual Employee Recognition Luncheon, held Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at Pinewood Weddings and Events in Cambridge, MN.

The nominees for the North 65 Chamber’s 2024 Employee of the Year Award were:
Emily Hebert – Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Vanessa Pooler – Art & Science Academy
Debra Torkildson – Cambridge Medical Center, Allina Health
Elizabeth Young – Cambridge-Isanti Schools
Marcia Westover – City of Cambridge
Kyle Volker – Comprehensive Health Clinics
Jeni Kafer – EFS Advisors
Sandra Norman – GracePointe Crossing
Ryan Bohn – Isanti Physical Therapy
Courtney Iverson – Miller Custom Remodeling
 
Guest speakers Stephanie Edoff and Hanna Hobson from WillowBridge opened the luncheon with an interactive presentation on wellness in the workplace, and why it matters. WillowBridge was founded in 2006 with the objective of helping people improve their overall wellness.
 
Melissa Bettendorf, Executive Director of the North 65 Chamber of Commerce, followed with the presentation of the Employee of the Year Award nominees and the announcement of the award winner.
In celebration of the 40^th year of the Employee Recognition Luncheon, past nominees and award winners were also recognized during the program.
 
The North 65 Chamber of Commerce is a member-led organization, representing a diverse group of businesses and community organizations in Cambridge, Isanti, and the surrounding area.  For more information about the North 65 Chamber of Commerce, visit www.north65chamber.com.
###
Contact:  Melissa Bettendorf, Executive Director.  info@north65chamber.com, 763-689-2505
Nominee and award recipient photos are included for release.




Nominees pictured left to right
Emily Hebert – Anoka-Ramsey Community College
Elizabeth Young – Cambridge-Isanti Schools
Vanessa Pooler – Art & Science Academy
Debra Torkildson – Cambridge Medical Center, Allina Health
Marcia Westover – City of Cambridge
Kyle Volker – Comprehensive Health Clinics
Jeni Kafer – EFS Advisors
Sandra Norman – GracePointe Crossing
Ryan Bohn – Isanti Physical Therapy
Courtney Iverson – Miller Custom Remodeling

For more information and to read excerpts about each of the nominees, click here.