Volunteer services director retiring from LMH Health after nearly 32 years

When she stepped through the doors at Lawrence Memorial Hospital on June 6, 1990, Allyson Leland began her journey with us as the Director of Volunteer Services. That journey will come to a close on May 13 when she retires following a nearly 32 year career at LMH Health.

Allyson Leland

“Allyson was the first and only director of Volunteer Services. When she was hired, she built her position from nothing, figuring out how to lead a group of volunteers that hadn’t ever had a director before,” said Lauren Cobb, volunteer services supervisor. “During her tenure she’s worked hard to grow this program, seeing it through the many changes in the organization and evolving to meet the needs of our ever-growing community hospital.”

Allyson said the best part of her time at LMH Health has been the people – the volunteers, her co-workers and the patients and visitors. She’ll miss them all.

“I’ve had the privilege to work with thousands of volunteers of all ages, some who I’ve worked with for the entirety of my career, others who are just now coming onboard and everyone in between,” she shared. “Some started as junior volunteers and are now grown with their own kids. From time to time, I even get to see college volunteers as they grow their own careers in healthcare.”

People she’s worked with over the years in different departments and roles throughout the hospital have provided Allyson with a wealth of memories. From the “lunch bunch” who provided her with the opportunity to see things from a different perspective and kept her on her toes to her co-workers in Volunteer Services who serve with passion, they’ve all walked the journey at LMH Health together.

“The concept of friends and neighbors taking care of friends and neighbors is what makes LMH special. The patients and visitors are a part of this place as much as the staff. They’re the true purpose of our roles here,” Allyson said.

Russ Johnson, LMH Health president & CEO, shared that Allyson has helped shape LMH in many ways.

“Allyson helped establish who we are as an organization and what our culture and personality is. It reflects on her caring about people and supporting them in their service to LMH,” he said. “It is about honoring and recognizing those who go an extra mile by giving of their time in order to make us a better hospital. It is about showing kindness and support to those around you. All of these are part of Allyson's legacy with LMH Health. For my part, I’ll miss most her smile and warm greeting every day at the volunteer desk.”

Working closely with Allyson is one of the things Lauren will miss the most. She said that Allyson has done so much more than just managing the volunteers. She’s fostered relationships over the long haul.

“Allyson has been a wonderful mentor to me in my career but also as I became a working mom during my time here. Over the years, it’s been amazing to see how many of our volunteers return to these halls as staff and even doctors. Allyson’s leadership has made that all possible,” she said.

In retirement, Allyson plans to spend more time with her family, work in the garden and take long walks with her dog. She also plans to travel, starting with a summer trip to Seattle to visit her oldest daughter. Her last day at LMH Health will be May 13.

“I’ll miss the people the most. That’ll be the hardest part of retiring,” Allyson shared. “When I look back at the time and all the people who have been a part or helped along the way, I am humbled by their steadfast support over this nearly 32 year journey.  It has been a true pleasure and I will greatly miss everyone.”