Linda Gagliardi, a housekeeping aide at Penn Highlands Elk, was recognized as an outstanding employee by Employment Support Services (ESS) at Dickinson Center, Inc. (DCI). Every October – during National Disability Employment Awareness Month -- DCI recognizes local employees as well as businesses that support hiring disabled individuals.

“Linda is an amazing individual. For the 24 years she has been with Penn Highlands Elk, Linda has been a dedicated employee that is respected by her co-workers. We are delighted that DCI recognized her commitment to our hospital,” said Julie Peer, President of Penn Highlands Elk and Penn Highlands Brookville.

Julie continued, “Penn Highlands Elk, in conjunction with Crothall Healthcare, has had many employees from DCI and we strive to find the right niche for each individual’s level of knowledge and ability.”

Penn Highlands Elk also received DCI’s highest honor – the 2025 Employment Support Services Business of the Year Award.

In presenting the award to Julie Peer, Marsha Dippold, DCI Director of ESS said, “Penn Highlands Elk has set the bar high as an example to other employers with their inclusive business standards. By promoting inclusion in the workplace, the hospital has afforded employment opportunities to numerous individuals and helped them to increase their financial independence.”