March 26, 1999

Going back to school has been a long-time dream for Luis Martinez and Juan Badillo. Now their dream is becoming a reality thanks to the MGH Support Service Employee Grant Program, sponsored by the MGH Diversity Committee.

Martinez and Badillo are two of 18 beneficiaries of this new program designed to help MGHers working in support services to fulfill career goals while improving current job performance or advancing into other positions.

Employees can use the grants, up to $2,500 each, to participate in education or training programs of their choice, using the funds to offset tuition, books, supplies, transportation or family/child care expenses. In addition to financial assistance, employees receive individualized support from a designated mentor.

Martinez, who works in the MGH Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, is attending Bunker Hill Community College. A native of El Salvador, Martinez came to the United States seven years ago, knowing very little English and even less about American culture. "My dream was to go to school in America, but I didn't think it was possible," said Martinez at a recent Diversity Committee meeting. "When I heard about this grant program, I thought that it would be a good opportunity for me – not just to help with resources for my education, but also to help me to become a better employee and a better person."

Badillo has a similar story. A native of Puerto Rico, Badillo has worked nights on Ellison 10 as a patient care associate since 1995. He always wanted to become a nurse but postponed his education to take care of his family, including his three children. "I've been looking at different nursing programs over the years, and they are very expensive," said Badillo. "I've been waiting for an opportunity like this grant program for a very long time." Badillo is in his first semester at Roxbury Community College.

"All of the grant recipients are extraordinary employees who are committed to their education," says Nancy Marttila, member of the Support Service Employee Grant Selection Committee. "The hospital is pleased and proud to support each of these individuals as they develop and ultimately reach their goals."

For more information about the grant program, call Nancy Marttila at 4-3055.

James J. Mongan, MD, MGH president, far left, congratulates grant recipients, from left, Kearin Dunbar of Dietetics, Karen Martin of Occupational Therapy, Christine Williams of Nursing, Carolene Lewis of Nursing, William Burton of Buildings and Grounds, Raymonde LaGerme of the Pharmacy Department, Juan Badillo of Nursing, Luis Martinez of Research Affairs, Carson Gordon of Police, Security and Parking, and Jamald Wright of Environmental Services. Not shown are Kathy Adams, Rosette Charles, Buffy Cope, Ben Baron, Maureen Carrigan, Marie Dawe, Said Fares and Evans Gray.