Julie Sprein has made a big impression on her co-workers in her more than two years at City of Hope. Her contributions to the daily work of nurses and other hospital staff members — and the welfare of patients — recently earned her the title of City of Hope’s “Administrative Professional of the Year.”

A University of La Verne representative talks to employees during the Administrative Professionals Week college fair. (Photo by p.cunningham)

Sprein, a senior secretary in the Department of Clinical Practice & Education, was one of several employees honored at the City of Hope International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) chapter’s 10th annual Administrative Professionals Week reception and third annual award ceremony co-sponsored by City of Hope on April 28. The event capped off a series of events including a college fair and educational workshop that focused on the professional growth of support staff throughout City of Hope.

“We’re proud to be able to highlight some of the excellent work done every day by our administrative professionals, and provide them with additional educational tools, as well,” said Deborah Millstine, president of the City of Hope corporate chapter of IAAP.

Sprein was nominated by Cynthia Idell-Smith, professional practice leader, for her diplomatic skills, willingness to collaborate on deadline projects and positive attitude. She also was honored for commitment to helping patients and family members who may have lost their way in the medical center and need to get to their appointments.

“People are so grateful, and it makes me feel good to help them, if even in a small way,” Sprein said.

Two runner-ups were named for the Administrative Professional of the Year: Berenice Meza, scheduler in the Department of Rehabilitation Services, in recognition of her customer service; and Salina Palacios, senior secretary in the Department of Professional Education, for her ability to coordinate educational and training programs, help students and boost morale.

The group also bestowed the Stephen J. Loy Memorial Scholarship (a year’s full membership in IAAP) to senior secretary Amanda Flores McMichael for exemplifying reliability, integrity and hard work.

For more information on IAAP, visit www.coh.org/iaap.