Why I Came, Why I Stayed: Maria Calderon is proud of Methodist Fremont Health’s commitment to the Latino community

In “Why I Came, Why I Stayed,” you’ll get to know people who are making a difference every day at Methodist and how they contribute to providing The Meaning of Care. To explore career opportunities at Methodist, visit bestcare.org/jobs.

Maria Calderon
Language Services Coordinator
Methodist Fremont Health

Tell us more about yourself.

I’m married and have three kids, ages 17, 12 and 8. I attended the College of Saint Mary and studied medical interpretation. I’ve been at Methodist Fremont Health for 17 years. I enjoy traveling, cooking, being a dance mom and watching my kids play sports.

What attracted you to the organization?

I enjoy what I do and working with all departments at Methodist. I enjoy breaking down the language barriers in the medical field. I love working with the Hispanic community, and I like that each day is different – so it’s never boring. I also get to meet people from various backgrounds and cultures.

What is it about Methodist that keeps you coming back?

I’ve stayed at Methodist because I like making a difference in my community and because Methodist Fremont Health values and respects the interpreters and our work. One thing that sets Methodist Fremont Health apart is that we continue to look for ways to engage and better serve the Latino community.

Do you have any favorite memories from your time at Methodist that you can tell us about?

I have many, but if I had to name one, it would be receiving The Caring Kind Award. As someone who works behind the scenes, I never expected it. It made me proud to know that everything matters, no matter how big or small your job at Methodist Fremont Health is.

Have you had a mentor or colleague at Methodist who made a difference for you?

I was very young when I started here, and I’ve had many mentors throughout the years. I appreciate my boss, Pat Callaway. He’s a good leader for Language Services. Cindi Hermanson, the service leader for the Emergency Department, always seems to have the answers to my questions. Last but not least, I thank Chaplin Scott Jensen for his many prayers and uplifting words.

What should people know about Methodist, its mission and/or its culture?

Methodist Fremont Health is a great place to work. Your co-workers become your closest friends/family. It's nice to see how everyone at Methodist works towards the same goal of caring for the community we serve.