‘Chief Joy Officer’ Celebrates 40 Years at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – WSB-TV Channel 2

ATLANTA — The Chief Joy Officer of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) says people who are happy at work tend to be more productive, more engaged and even healthier.

That’s why she said Channel 2’s Lori Wilson that she has no plans to slow down anytime soon, even as she celebrates 40 years in the business.

“I absolutely remember my first day,” said registered nurse Karla Mavity.

(DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for breaking news alerts)

She has fond memories of her work since she was hired as a registered nurse 40 years ago.

“I remember vividly feeling like it was home,” Mavity said.

When she and her husband moved to Atlanta in 1984, she first worked in the cardiac unit at what was then Eggleston Children’s Healthcare.

“One of my heart patients, Patrick, who is now in his forties. Her mom always sends me a car for National Nurses Day every year,” she said.

But in 1998, the then-separate Eggleston and Scottish Rite hospitals merged into one under the name Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

As with any merger, employees were nervous and that’s when Mavity was asked to help in a different way.

The newly appointed CEO saw something in her — saw this warmth, this thoughtfulness and he said, ‘I’m going to need someone like her to help bring the culture together,’ said Linda Matzigkeit, chief executive of CHOA.

Matzigkeit said she did just that by launching an employee recognition program recognizing birthdays and other special events.

And while much has changed over its 40 years, the need for a community culture has remained the same.

“It’s rare today that someone stays with an organization for 40 years, but especially someone who has touched so many lives,” Matzigkeit said.

“This is one of the highlights of my unexpected journey as a registered nurse,” Mavity said.

Employee recognition is not only what excites her about work, but she believes it is the key to employees being happy and healthier at work.

TRENDING STORIES:

(SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Newsletter)

IN OTHER NEWS:

Georgia Could Be Holding Money That Belongs To You…And You May Not Even Realize It

©2024 Cox Media Group