Each fall, Mille Lacs Health System (MLHS) invites employees to nominate their peers for the St. Francis Award, an annual recognition honoring employees who inspire others and demonstrate the values of St. Francis and Mille Lacs Health System. The award is presented each year at the Employee Holiday Party, held in late January.
This year, 16 employees were nominated for the 2025 St. Francis Award. The recipient is selected by a committee made up of past award winners. Beverly Insley was named the 2025 honoree.
Insley shared her story after receiving the award, noting that she has spent more than half of her adult life working at Mille Lacs Health System. Her connection to the organization began even earlier. Insley was born at the hospital when it was known as Community Mercy Hospital and operated by the Franciscan Sisters. During her remarks, she recalled how her father was so impressed with the nurse who helped care for her at birth that he and her mother chose to name her after that nurse.
Insley began her careebr at Mille Lacs Health System while still in high school, working in the Admissions Department. After taking a break for several years, she returned to the organization and held roles in the Business Office and Finance Department. She currently serves as Patient Accounts Manager. In total, Insley has been an integral part of Mille Lacs Health System for more than 33 years.
In the nomination submitted on Insley’s behalf, her leadership style and impact were highlighted. “Bev leads with genuine care and integrity, creating a supportive and positive workplace. Her steady presence and commitment to her team make a meaningful difference each day. She leads in the spirit of Saint Francis through humility, compassion, and a servant-hearted approach, always encouraging others to do their best and feel valued,” the nomination stated.
During the award presentation, Insley expressed appreciation for her colleagues and the organization. “I feel very blessed to have worked with some incredibly wonderful people over the years. We truly do have some of the very best here at MLHS,” she said. “MLHS provides a vital service to our community, and I am proud to be part of that. This is truly an incredible honor.”
Insley was also recognized by last year’s St. Francis Award recipient, Sharon Grassel, Rehab Manager, who spoke to Insley’s long-standing presence and leadership. “In my 20 years here, there have been many hard times. However, I’ve always known things will be fine because Bev is here,” Grassel said. “Bev is a pillar of strength. She always does what’s right. She is the calm during a storm. She is the one.”
The St. Francis Award was established at Mille Lacs Health System in 1989 to recognize employees who exemplify the organization’s mission and values. Recipients are selected for their commitment to service, integrity, and compassion in their daily work.