The Blount Memorial Hospital Security Department presented armed officer Michael Ippolito with its first Officer of the Year Award at its December meeting. Officer Ippolito – a former cook in the hospital’s kitchen – was honored to accept the award surrounded by his peers.
“I really try to, when I get into something and I like it, give it my all and be the best at it,” he said. “I take what I can from other people, and that’s what has helped me a lot.” Ippolito was appreciative of his fellow officers and their support of him. “I’m just lucky to have a lot of people around me who want to see me thrive. I just want to keep going from here and see where it takes me.”
Ippolito was described by department director Raymond Barnhart as dedicated, professional and eager to learn. “He exemplifies the highest standards of an officer, and his strong work ethic is unparalleled.” Barnhart also emphasized that Officer Ippolito always looks for ways to better himself, which also strengthens the department.
“One thing that stands out about him is his relentless pursuit of knowledge and professional growth. He actively seeks out training opportunities and certifications to enhance his skills and stay current on the latest techniques,” Barnhart said. “His commitment to his continuous learning has significantly contributed to his effectiveness as an officer, and it has enhanced his ability to respond to a variety of challenges.”
Barnhart invited a special guest to the presentation: Jeff Gilmore, the hospital’s former Food and Nutrition Services director and Ippolito’s former boss. Ippolito’s path to becoming an officer at Blount Memorial began with Gilmore, when Ippolito – a cook at the time – shared with Gilmore that he really wanted to work in security.
“Jeff came to me and asked if we could help this guy out,” Barnhart shared with the group. “I told him I had a PRN spot, but that I couldn’t really let him (Ippolito) work PRN since he worked full time for him (Gilmore).” Barnhart said he and Gilmore agreed to work together to support Ippolito’s goals of working in security.
The two department directors agreed to share his hours, with Ippolito starting out working one day a week in security with one day less in the cafeteria. This then changed to two days in security and two days less in the cafeteria. “Eventually, we had a full-time spot open up for him in security,” Barnhart said. “Jeff told me that if I wanted him, I could have him – and he’d work to fill the cook spot.
“That’s the reason I wanted Jeff to be here tonight.”
Officer Ippolito thanked Gilmore, saying, “I would not be right here without you.” Gilmore, who has a track record of helping his team members pursue career goals, congratulated Ippolito.
“It makes me so proud that you’ve done so much with your opportunity.”
