Health and Fitness : VGH Laboratory Supervisor Retires after 36 Years of Service

Carolyn Gavalas and Tracey Herink

Goodbye hugs

Leadership of Virginia Gay Hospital (VGH) Laboratory Services will be transferred today when current Lab. Supervisor, Carolyn Gavalas, retires after 36 years. Since 1977 a lot of changes have taken place in the laboratory, says Carolyn, for example, back then laboratory staff weren’t required to wear gloves, masks, and smoking in the lab was allowed. In the intervening years both technological and professional developments have improved laboratory testing and safety.

Carolyn has enjoyed her time with the hospital and said it has been a “fun ride,” but she is looking forward to the change and spending quality time with her two-month old grandnephew.

Relieving Carolyn will be 19 year laboratory veteran Tracey Herink whose experience and leadership will begin tomorrow. Eleven full-time VGH laboratory staff performs approximately 90% of all ordered labs on premises.

Virginia Gay Hospital and Clinics thanks Carolyn Gabalas for her years of dedicated service and extraordinary leadership. Enjoy your retirement!

Click here to learn more about Virginia Gay Hospital Laboratory Services.