Neeka Jacobsen Receives Outstanding Employee Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to announce Neeka Jacobsen, IADC, intake coordinator and counselor at the Recovery Center, as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Employee Award.

The Outstanding Employee Award honors an MRHC employee who consistently performs high-quality work and extra duties beyond those normally assigned, works well with others, assists whenever needed, has a positive attitude, displays exceptional dependability, and creates a supportive workplace culture.

“Neeka goes far above and beyond what this hospital requires of her and is constantly trying to better herself so she can serve the community in a different capacity, if necessary,” a nomination letter shared. “She works to help various departments of the hospital and is willing to jump in wherever needed, whether the job is relevant to her position or not.

Another co-worker shared, “Neeka is continually thinking of ways to incorporate prevention into the community and represent the hospital in all aspects. She is always willing to jump in and help other departments with whatever is needed.”

Jacobsen was also recognized for her work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper, an educational initiative designed to provide prevention resources and support for families affected by addiction.

“Neeka’s work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper is amazing and is providing much-needed information for prevention, as well as helping families who may have loved ones who are addicted,” a nominator noted.

The Outstanding Employee Award was created to honor essential contributions of MRHC’s non-medical staff and their impact on patient experiences, organizational culture, and community outreach. Jacobsen’s recognition reflects her commitment to service, collaboration, and improving the lives of those she serves every day. Neeka will also be recognized during the 2026 Legacy Fund Gala on November 6, alongside the recipients of the DAISY Award, Impact Award, and scholarship awards, all of whom have been announced this month.

Jacki Streck Named 2024 MRHC Outstanding Employee

Jacki Streck

Jacki StreckJacki Streck, an employee in the dietary department at MRHC, was recognized for her exceptional performance and received the 2024 MRHC Outstanding Employee Award on May 15th. Jacki was nominated for the award by several of her co-workers who all agreed she not only meets but exceeds the criteria for this award.

The Outstanding Employee Award recognizes an MRHC employee who consistently performs high-quality work and extra duties beyond those normally assigned, is willing to work with others and assist whenever needed, has a positive attitude, displays exceptional dependability, and creates a positive work environment. Characteristics that Jacki undeniably possesses, making her a popular nomination and an easy choice for the award.

In a nomination letter, one of Jacki’s co-workers commented, “Jacki is one of the hardest working and most dependable people I know. She’s always willing to assist where needed, including picking up open shifts, filling in last minute, and adjusting her schedule to accommodate the department or the needs of MRHC.”Jacki Streck and Dan Grove

Another co-worker shared, “Jacki goes above and beyond to spread her positivity to staff, patients, and visitors and you can always count on her to greet you with a smile. She truly brightens the days of those she encounters.”

Some recent patient surveys have specifically called out Jacki, recognizing her exceptional performance, saying, “Jacki is the best!” and “Jacki is thoughtful and accommodated my diet.”

Several of Jacki’s co-workers also shared how her personality, dependability, and commitment to MRHC make her the best choice for the Outstanding Employee Award.

Jacki Streck and her family

“Jacki is always helpful, very accommodating, and will go out of her way to get what you need. She is always upbeat and happy. Jacki is an absolute joy to work with, and MRHC is extremely fortunate to have her!”

The Outstanding Employee Award was established to recognize non-medical staff for their excellent service to the organization, patient experience, and enhancing the organizational culture.  To read about past employees who have received this award, click here.

Blackwell Named 2022 Outstanding Employee

Amy Blackwell

Amy BlackwellWhen Amy Blackwell envisioned her career back in college, she initially saw herself as an elementary school teacher. But after changing her major, working a full-time job, starting a family, and running an in-home daycare, she decided to go back to school for her Administrative Office professional degree and eventually found her home at The Recovery Center at MRHC.

“After getting my degree, I ended up working at MRHC. When the Recovery Center position opened, I decided to apply, and I am forever grateful for ending up where I am now,” Blackwell shared.

Blackwell serves as the Administrative Assistant and Intake Coordinator at the Recovery Center. But there is a lot more to her role than some may think.

“People may assume that she just answers phones and greets people; these things are perhaps 10% of what she does to help keep the Recovery Center running well,” said Brad Madsen, Recovery Center clinical coordinator. “Amy has willingly taken on additional duties such as processing referrals, scheduling intakes, and engaging in clinical trainings to help better understand what the counselors do.”

Along with her normal responsibilities, Blackwell continues to find additional ways to help improve the Recovery Center as well as grow in her own career.

“Amy brings many aspects to the Recovery Center,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme.  “She has continued to expand on her education and growth. She recently received her license as a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor and is starting to lead group sessions in the recovery center. We are so lucky to have her.”

Along with adding the counselor title to her role, Amy is also working on getting certified as a yoga instructor to offer Recovery Yoga/Meditation to Recovery Center clients.

“Amy never backs down from a challenge and enjoys doing new activities in her work,” said Emmalee Bolin, Recovery Center counselor. “She is willing to perform above and beyond what is in her job description.”

Blackwell attributes her desire to advance in her career and her passion for what she does to her coworkers, MRHC leadership, and Recovery Center clients.

“Everyone is always very encouraging to keep advancing and bettering yourself and they have all made an impact on how I have grown here,” Blackwell said. “I have learned so much from all the counselors, coworkers, and clients through the years so I knew I wanted to gain more knowledge and do anything I could to add to the Recovery Center. Taya and Brad have always been there to encourage me to advance in my career here at MRHC! I couldn’t have gotten this far without any of them!”

Blackwell also emphasizes how she would not be where she is today without the support of her Recovery Center team members. With a busy life outside of work, she is grateful for a flexible and family-oriented work environment at MRHC.

“I have three children, so with sickness, kids’ activities, and just life I know that I can take care of what I need to at home and fulfill my duties here at work. The team I work with is always willing to step in and we all understand the life/work balance. It’s so good knowing that jobs will always be done with the help of others,” Blackwell shared.

Blackwell was recently recognized for her exceptional performance and growth in her job and received the 2022 MRHC Outstanding Employee Award. This award recognizes an employee who consistently performs a high-level of work and extra duties beyond those normally assigned, has a positive attitude, displays exceptional dependability, and creates a positive work environment. Characteristics that Blackwell undeniably possesses, making her a popular nomination, and an easy selection for the award.

“I want to thank everyone who nominated me for the Outstanding Employee Award. I was extremely surprised and honored,” Blackwell said. “I enjoy working with each and every one of the people here at MRHC, and I couldn’t do my job without them!”

But according to her team, they couldn’t do it without her. “Amy is the glue that holds the Recovery Center together, and this place would not be nearly the same without her.”

For a current list of job openings at MRHC and the Recovery Center, click here or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.