Wrubleski named Bassett Ambassador

Date:February 17, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For Further Information Contact:

• Karen Huxtable
  (607) 547-4581
  karen.huxtable@bassett.org
• Diane L. Wells
  (607) 547-6354
  diane.wells@bassett.org

Cooperstown, N.Y. - "I was totally shocked to hear that I was chosen as an Ambassador," said Brian Wrubleski, director of Food Service at Bassett Medical Center since 2003. "I always try to do the best at what I do, and I do what I do because I love it. I like working with the people." Bassett’s Ambassador Program recognizes staff who consistently demonstrate core values of quality, respect, service, integrity and friendliness.

"It doesn’t matter if it’s a dignitary eating the food I’ve prepared, or a patient in the hospital. When someone enjoys my food, it’s very satisfying," said Wrubleski. Wrubleski’s enthusiasm is evident daily, in his work ethic and the way he treats others. "We are a close knit group and I know my staff. I know what’s going on in their life," said Wrubleski. "My door is always open."

Wrubleski’s career path has shown him to be a person who cares about people. Initially, Wrubleski worked as a police officer in Massachusetts for seven years and a counselor for at-risk and violent youth offenders. And when Wrubleski was considering a career change, he realized his passion for both food and people, graduating summa cum laude from Johnson & Wales Culinary School in 1988. "I’ve done every job in food service, from running a restaurant, to college dining, to working at the Hyatt Regency."

What keeps Wrubleski busy when he is not working or volunteering his time and talents cooking and helping others? He likes running, has completed three Boston Marathons, and would love to do another. He plays basketball on an over-50 league at the gym, and is getting into outdoor cycling. How does he fit everything in? "I thrive on stress," explains Wrubleski. "The more stress the better."

In his recommendation letter, Dr. Robert Lancey, chief of Cardiac Surgery, said, "Brian is truly the epitome of a high performing employee. He sets an example for dedication to work, and is an exemplary leader."

Wrubleski and his wife Mel (Bassett nurse practitioner in cardiac surgery who has returned to school for training as a nurse anesthetist), live in Cooperstown and have two daughters - Alexandra, 20, is studying nursing, and Natalie, 17, is a high school senior.