SLV Medical Wall of Fame Inducts Two Classes
SLV Health
On Friday, May 19, 2023, SLV Health hosted the annual tribute to those who dedicated their career to health care in the San Luis Valley, combining two classes into one ceremony. Please read the full story of each inductee located on the history page of the slvh.org website.
For the class of 2020-2021, Judith Gritz presented the award posthumously to her mother, Esther Houser, RN, who worked as one of the first RNs at the Lutheran Hospital (now SLV Health). She bought a one-way train ticket to Alamosa, found a room to rent, and began work in 1929. Her arrival helped get the first hospital in the region accredited.
Julie Geiser, RN, presented the award to Lois Booth, RN, who drove truck between nursing careers! She had a variety of nursing jobs but is often remembered as the director of Hospice del Valle, where she retired in 2012.
Lindsey Paulson presented the next honoree, posthumously, to a well-known and loved dentist, Jack Brown, DDS, which was accepted by his family members. Many remember the sign in his window on 136 Adams Street, Monte Vista, which read, “Painless Dentist Upstairs.”
Jim Robbins presented the award to Ted Morrison, PA-C, who retired from his PA practice after 43 years of notable and honorable service to this community. He is also a very proud Adams State alumni and supporter.
For the class of 2022-2023, Dr. Michael Firth presented the award to William “Bill” Brinton, MD, for his many years of service in the SLV. His contributions to public health as the first epidemiologist for the SLV will never be forgotten.
Lois Booth, RN, presented her good friend and colleague Julie Geiser, RN, with her award. Julie experienced many modalities of work and is well known as the Alamosa Public Health Nurse for the final 18 years of her career.
Patricia Robbins, Ph.D., presented her husband, Jim Robbins, CRNA, with his award. He practiced anesthesia for 34 years in the SLV, most of those years as a leader, always working to improve and update the equipment and practices in his field.
Dr. Robert Kelly presented Kristina Steinberg, MD, with her award. She has been in practice, and continues, at Valley-Wide Health Systems, including a special interest in women’s health and obstetrics.
Over 120 family, friends, and work colleagues attended this special recognition ceremony to honor these deserving inductees. Serving as the MC for the ceremony was Antonio Gurule, SLVH Clinic Administrator. Hosting the event and creating the booklet were SLVH Foundation Director Kelly Gurule and Administrative Assistant Amanda Wade. Sheryl Farley entertained the guests on the harp and Aramark served wonderful refreshments. The committee chose these honorees based on their years of service and their commitment to their community.
