Sanford recognized as one of the best employers for veterans

Contact:
Vanessa Vondra
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432/vanessa.vondra@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., Nov. 9, 2021 – Sanford Health has been recognized by Military Times for being one of the best employers across the country for veterans. This is the third year in a row Sanford Health has been recognized on this list.

The 2021 Best for Vets: Employers List highlights 161 employers, and Sanford Health landed at the no. 36 spot, up from 42 last year and number one in the business category rankings for Healthcare Services and Nonprofit. To determine the rankings, employers take a voluntary survey. It analyzes the company’s efforts to recruit, retain, and support current and former service members, military spouses, and military caregivers.

“Sanford Health is dedicated to providing our veterans and military personnel with employment opportunities they deserve,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “Veterans add so much value to a team with their unique perspectives and skillsets. As a son of a veteran, I’m humbled by their service and proud to have them part of our Sanford family.”

Sanford has created a department of military and veteran affairs, led by Captain Paul Weckman, to streamline services, cater to veterans and their families, and become the destination of choice for veterans and military personnel. There are several exclusive services for our nation’s veterans who choose to work at Sanford Health. These benefits support our heroes during and after their service.

Sanford Health applicants who disclose that they are veterans of the United States uniformed services will be given an automatic screening interview. Service members also have the ability to continue their employment benefits during qualified military deployments. Employees who are a member of the National Guard or Reserve receive supplemental compensation during qualified military deployments of up to 12 months. A full list of benefits can be found on a section of Sanford’s Careers website specifically designed for veterans.

“We provide these programs because it’s the least we can do for the sacrifices these brave men and women made serving our country,” said Captain Weckman, head of military and veteran affairs at Sanford Health. “Being a veteran myself of the United States Navy, I understand how important it is for my work to be meaningful and to feel valued as an employee. Sanford is continuing to work towards becoming the top destination of choice for transitioning service members and veterans.”

About Sanford Health

Sanford Health, one of the largest health systems in the United States, is dedicated to the integrated delivery of health care, genomic medicine, senior care and services, global clinics, research and affordable insurance. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization includes 46 hospitals, 1,500 physicians and more than 200 Good Samaritan Society senior care locations in 26 states and 10 countries. Learn more about Sanford Health’s transformative work to improve the human condition at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.