Natchez — Scott Phillips, CEO of Natchez Regional Medical Center, has announced the quarterly award winners for excellent performers at the hospital.

“Excellent performers are those employees who are recognized by their co-workers for their commitment to go the extra mile to be courteous and helpful to all customers. It is my honor to announce Kimberly Johnese and Clara Barnes as recipients of this quarter’s excellent performers awards,” Phillips said.

Barnes, assistant director of food services, began her employment at Natchez Regional in 1991 as a dietary clerk and received her first promotion in 1993 when she became the food service supervisor.

In 2002, Barnes was once again promoted to the position she is in today.

“Employees at Natchez Regional adore Clara,” said Kay Jenkins, director of food services. “She always has a smile on her face, and she has the most calming and caring disposition.”

Barnes’ caring attitude and desire to accommodate requests exemplifies the true patient/customer service goals Jenkins said.

A graduate of South Natchez High School, she attended Co-Lin Community College. Her interests include reading, spending time with family, working word puzzles and singing in her church choir.

Kimberly Johnese, registered nurse, was selected the nursing excellent performer for the quarter. She joined Natchez Regional as a young nurse right out of school in 1994 and began her nursing career in the surgery department where she remains today.

According to her co-workers, Johnese always goes the extra mile to make her patients relaxed and comfortable. Her wonderful attitude and willingness to always assist where needed has earned her enormous respect among her colleagues.

“Kimberly has used her clinical skills and experience as a veteran operating room nurse to train new nurses, and she always works tirelessly without complaint,” said Anna Devening, charge nurse for the surgery department.

A graduate of Adams County Christian School, Johnese graduated from Alcorn State University.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and being involved in her church.