Grant Warren, a surgical support specialist, was named Memorial Medical Center's 2017 Employee of the Year.

Warren began his career with Memorial Medical Center as a housekeeper more than 19 years ago. He worked as a surgical assistant for two years before moving into the surgical support specialist role, where he's served the past 17 years.

 “Every day is a new experience,” Warren said. “As a surgery transporter, I enjoy interacting with patients, their families and the staff from multiple departments. If I can brighten someone’s day during a stressful time, that makes me happy. Being able to ease tension is very gratifying.”

The Employee of the Year is selected from 11 individuals named Employee of the Month from January through November of each year. Warren was April's Employee of the Month.

“Grant exemplifies our Memorial mission,” Ed Curtis, president and CEO of Memorial Health System, said. “His attention to detail, willingness to help others and his compassionate care of our patients affects everyone in a positive way.”

Warren and his wife, Claudia, who also works at Memorial Medical Center, live in Springfield. They have three adult children and a grandson. Warren enjoys watching sports and spending time with his family.