The cornerstone for Johnson Memorial Hospital was laid on June 17, 1911, and colleagues recently gathered to mark that special day with several activities designed to celebrate the occasion.
Gathering in the main lobby, colleagues learned about Cyril and Julia Johnson, the founders of Johnson Memorial Hospital, and the achievements and struggles they faced in the first few years. Robert Roose, M.D., M.P.H., President of Johnson and Mercy Medical Center, read a quote from Johnson’s first “Annual Report” in 1914 that accurately predicted that the hospital was "destined to be of great benefit to the inhabitants of the northeastern part of Connecticut." After learning a few more historical tidbits, colleagues participated in a commissioning ceremony and stopped to look at the new Culture Wall that displays Trinity Health’s Core Values.
Due to the extremely hot temperatures, a noontime colleague barbeque was held in the cafeteria where Johnson leaders served hamburgers, hot dogs, corn-on-the-cob, potato salad, and cold drinks. Colleague teams also participated in a cornhole tournament that was set up in the cafeteria.
“The celebration of Cornerstone Day at Johnson provided a unique opportunity for colleagues to look back on the early days of the hospital and also look ahead by reaffirming their commitment to our patients and the local community,” said Michael Rogers, PhD, Mission Integration Consultant, Johnson Memorial Hospital and Mercy Medical Center.