The Environmental Services (EVS) team at Glacial Ridge Health System (GRHS) has been named an Environmental Services Department of the Year by the Minnesota Hospital Association (MHA). They were presented the award on May 23 during MHA’s 2025 Spring Innovation Forum.

GRHS was one of two hospitals in the state to receive this recognition. Every member of the EVS team contributes to the hospital’s success. By upholding strict infection control standards, they help ensure a clean environment, safer care, and better outcomes. At a time when staffing challenges are common in health care, GRHS is proud to have a fully staffed EVS team whose dedication and teamwork help set the tone for a positive patient experience.

“Our Environmental Services team takes pride in what they do, and it shows—in our cleanliness ratings, in how they support one another, and in the way they connect with patients,” said Kirk Stensrud, CEO of Glacial Ridge Health System.

“The EVS team not only keeps our facility clean and disinfected, but they do it so well that patients and guests often comment on how sparkling everything looks!” added Jeanette Pasche, RN, Infection Prevention, Employee Health, and Oncology Coordinator.

In total, 71 individuals and teams from hospitals and health systems across the state were recognized by MHA for their efforts to bolster the workforce, tell impactful healthcare stories, and improve quality and safety in Minnesota’s nonprofit hospitals and health systems.

“Healthcare professionals make an impact on the lives of individuals and the well-being of our communities every day,” said MHA President and CEO Rahul Koranne. “We’re grateful for this opportunity to celebrate the talented teams and individuals leading this work.”

This department-wide recognition builds upon another achievement: GRHS is one of only 14 hospitals in Minnesota to receive a 5-star rating for cleanliness from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The latest rating, based on HCAHPS patient surveys collected from April 2023 to March 2024, reflects how highly patients rated the hospital’s cleanliness during their stay. Thanks to the EVS team’s attention to detail and consistency, they continue to earn GRHS a 5-star cleanliness rating year after year.

View more GRHS awards and recognition.