Hendrick Health awards Butler Scholarship to Admissions employee

At Hendrick Health, Catalina Garza, a supervisor in Admissions, found more than a job when she started in an entry-level position in 2017. She found encouragement to advance in a career.

To assist Garza as she pursues a bachelor’s degree in healthcare management, Hendrick Health recently awarded her the Dr. William H. Butler Sr. Scholarship for the Advancement of Racial and Ethnic Diversity in Healthcare.

Dr. Butler (1875 -1947) was Abilene’s first practicing black physician, first providing care in 1914 out of his home. He served primarily Abilene’s African-American community and anyone who could not get equal or adequate healthcare, including whites and Hispanics.

The scholarship was created in 2021 as part of the health system’s commitment to promote an ethnically diverse and racially inclusive workforce. Employees and community members have contributed to the fund, and Hendrick Health pledged a $20,000 matching grant.

“Employees dedicated to education in both clinical and nonclinical specialties is vital to the success of Hendrick Health,” said Brad Holland, president and CEO for Hendrick Health. “And, fostering a diverse workforce is invaluable to our excelling in meaningful patient engagement.”

The scholarship is open to any Hendrick Health employee of color who wishes to pursue specific goals for professional improvement. The first scholarship was awarded in 2022.

Garza started at Hendrick Health as a scheduling representative in Centralized Scheduling and soon exhibited a knack for training. She steadily progressed in new roles and responsibilities and credits managers for fostering her innate interest in personal growth and giving her best in every task.

To learn how to support the financial growth of the scholarship, visit hendrickhealth.org/butlerscholarship or call 325-670-2628.