Elk Valley nurses recognized for dedication, leadership in health care

Interior Health is recognizing the contributions of several nurses in the Elk Valley.

Nurses across the Elk Valley are employed in a range of roles, including acute care, community health, long-term care and administration.

Interior Health acknowledged five local nurses who work in various areas and have demonstrated leadership and commitment to patient care.

Leah Folkmann, a registered nurse working in primary care at the Sparwood Health Centre, has been in the profession for 20 years.

She has lived and worked in the Elk Valley since 2008 and is recognized for her leadership and full-scope nursing practice.

Alanna Corrigan, a care manager and palliative care nurse, has worked in health care for more than 25 years.

She supports patients and families throughout the region and emphasized the importance of relationship-building in nursing.

Sherry Sopko, clinical operations manager for community programs and the Sparwood Emergency Department, began her career in 1989.

She moved into leadership in 2014 and is known for her focus on safe, team-based patient care.

Sherry Sopko, Sparwood Emergency Department. Photo Credit: Interior Health

Colleen Novecosky, a home health nurse based in Fernie, serves as the transition liaison at Elk Valley Hospital.

Over her 22-year career, she has worked primarily in community nursing and also operates a private business as a nurse coach. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in leadership.

Melissa Rodger, director of clinical care at Rocky Mountain Village in Fernie, has worked in nursing for 18 years, all of them in the Elk Valley.

She leads a team providing long-term care to seniors in the community.

Colleen Novecosky, Transition Liaison.
Photo Credits: Interior Health

Interior Health issued a statement thanking all nurses across the region for their service.