April 27, 2001

Sharon Fiumara greets many visitors every day in the WACC at the busy MGH Cardiology practice where she works. But last week, Fiumara got a surprise visit from none other than Jeff Davis, senior vice president for Human Resources, who dropped by to deliver some good news: Fiumara is the recipient of this year's Pam Ellis Memorial Secretarial award.

Award winner Sharon Fiumara with James McFarland, MD

"I was so surprised to hear the news," says Fiumara. "My first reaction was, 'Wow, they selected me?' I was thrilled."

The award, which is given every year to a support staff member in recognition of National Secretary's Day, was named for Pamela Ellis, an executive secretary at the MGH, who died in October 1996 at the age of 31. Ellis was known for her outstanding performance and work values, and the $1,000 award was established in 1997 to honor employees who exhibit similar qualities in their work.

Fiumara was nominated for the award by her supervisor, MGH cardiologist James McFarland, MD. He sang her praises in his nomination, saying that she single-handedly runs his busy office, juggling many responsibilities while always remaining pleasant and helpful to patients and colleagues. "My own practice would be totally lost without her assistance," he writes in the nomination. "I think she is terrific in everything that she does, and she also is very helpful to her coworkers. I support her for this award without reservation."

Fiumara has worked for McFarland for 19 years, and says she has loved every minute of it. "This is the best job I've ever had, and he is the best boss I've ever had," she says. "I don't mind working hard at a job that I really enjoy. I particularly like working directly with patients. Sometimes they are very sick and frightened about what is happening to them, so if I can at least bring a smile to their faces, then my job is satisfying."

Fiumara received the award at a special ceremony April 25 under the Bulfinch Tent. The other 62 nominees for the award also were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the MGH.