On November 20, Hostos was awarded the Outstanding Partnership Leadership Award in recognition of the exceptional support the College has provided to students and families in need during its partnership with WellCare of New York.
Fabian Wander, Hostos’ Director of Hostos' Health and Wellness Center, accepted the award and served as keynote speaker for WellCare’s first statewide Marketing Outreach Specialist Summit. Wander spoke about the essential elements identified as best practices in managing effective teams, as well as maximizing staff performance in the work place.
Hostos’ Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Development has also forged a strong reputation as a valued community partner, both in the Bronx and New York City. More of the Division’s important work was recognized on December 1, when the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce awarded Peter Mertens, a Hostos Assistant Dean, with a Commerce Business Award for his exemplary teamwork at its 12th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Ceremony.
Specifically, Mertens was celebrated for his commitment to Montefiore Hospital, Phipps Neighborhood Houses and the partnership that has nurtured the “Career Network: Healthcare” program. This career development initiative helps young adults secure healthcare-related employment and/or education credentials. The goal is to place participants in career-oriented jobs and education programs that yield portable credentials and that lead to long-term self-sufficiency. Careers that participants are prepared for include nursing (home health aides, certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurse, patient care technician); allied health (restorative aide, physical therapy aide, surgical technician, clinical lab technician), and other healthcare related roles (sterile process, patient transport, environment and dietary support services, medical secretary).
“What a great honor to receive this award from The NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce,” Mertens said. “To be recognized with our partners Phipps Neighborhood and Montefiore Hospital is deeply satisfying given the work we do in transforming lives by providing training and career opportunities in the Healthcare profession. I feel especially rewarded receiving this award during Hostos Community College’s 50th Anniversary year.”
About WellCare Health Plans, Inc.
Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., WellCare Health Plans, Inc. (NYSE: WCG) focuses exclusively on providing government-sponsored managed care services, primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, to families, children, seniors and individuals with complex medical needs. The company served approximately 4.1 million members nationwide as of March 31, 2017.
About the Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Ceremony
The 12th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Ceremony honored successful individuals who have proven their commitment to upholding the integrity of the Hispanic Community, while celebrating individuals who advocate for economic development, higher education and promote initiatives that continue to empower the Latino community and beyond.