The Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County created the Golden Shovel Award to honor businesses, organizations or individuals that have made a significant contribution to the economic well-being of Tacoma-Pierce County. This year’s recipient was an easy pick: South Sound health care workers.

“For our thousands of front-line health workers, the mental, physical and spiritual toll of the job is enormous. Yet, they continue to do it, day after day,” said EDB Chair Herb Simon when presenting the award during the 2021 EDB Annual Meeting. “High-quality health care is a pillar of our economy. We owe them so much.”

Accepting the Golden Shovel were Mary Ragsdale, System Vice President, Diversity, Equity, & Community Impact for Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, and Jim Beatty, President and COO of MultiCare Good Samaritan Hospital.

“These past two years have allowed us to see a glimpse of the strength and the resiliency of our health care workers that cannot be overlooked,” Ragsdale said. “This recognition is significant. I’m honored to accept the Golden Shovel on behalf of every individual who touches or interacts with our patients.”

“Health care workers are truly heroes. Despite their personal difficulties and stress, they come to work every day to care for others,” Beatty said. “I’m extremely proud to be part of MultiCare and be associated with such a group of dedicated professionals. Recognition by the EDB is sincerely appreciated.”