KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany -- Kathryn Arnett is passionate about taking care of those that take care of others.
With a focus on both her clients and her coworkers, Arnett was recently recognized for her work with the U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern's Army Substance Abuse Program.
Arnett, who has worked in the ASAP office on Landstuhl for the past two years, was named the Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs 2012 Clinical Director of the Year.
"Ms. Arnett's ingenuity, work ethic and high performance set the standard for ASAP Europe," wrote Lt. Col. Lars Zetterstrom in his nomination letter. "Her experience, skill and dedication to the ASAP and the garrison contributed directly to mission readiness."
Arnett said she was thrilled to get the award and that the ASAPs in Europe were in the spotlight.
"I am a person that jumps in and is motivated and am excited that Europe is setting the pace for all the ASAPs," said Arnett, who is a licensed clinical social worker and certified alcohol and drug counselor. "That has been my goal to see Europe shine."
Another goal of hers was to build a team of people who were excited about coming to work.
"I want people to want to come to work here," Arnett said. "If you get out of bed and dread coming here, that is going to be reflected in your work…If I take anything away from the clinical director of the year award, it is that I feel that I have succeeded in creating that kind of environment where I have protected people and insulated them from things that would have caused burdens and stress to their day."
Coworker Lorraina Nyanza, a licensed social worker and substance abuse counselor, said Arnett's passion for her work makes her stand out.
"She is in this field to make a difference," she said. "She is professional, inspirational, transparent, compassionate, honest, has no hidden agendas and is a listener, which is very unique for a leader."
Nyanza also said Arnett has a great balance between professionalism and humor.
"Her sense of humor is intoxicating," she said. "She has a great balance between humor and seriousness that makes her very approachable and professional in a context that is genuine."
Arnett will soon be leaving the ASAP office and begin a new position with the Europe Regional Medical Command in their Care Provider Support Program, which helps provide support for healthcare workers.
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