The Medical Center Auxiliary recognized its volunteers recently at the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at the First Baptist Church Banquet Hall in Gainesville.

Nell Wiegand was honored for 60 years of service with a special commendation from Gov. Nathan Deal. Wiegand began volunteering at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in 1951 when the Auxiliary was founded. She has served as president of The Medical Center Auxiliary and has held leadership roles with the Hospital Authority, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Board and she currently serves as Chair Emeritus of The Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees.

James Harmon received the Marjorie Covington Smith Auxilian of the Year award. He served as the first president of Mended Hearts and continues to serve as an officer today.

Bobbie Thomas received the Nell Whelchel Wiegand Patient Friend Award, presented by Wiegand. Thomas began volunteering 10 years ago and has donated nearly 2,500 hours of service. Thomas has also served on the Auxiliary Board as Hospitality Chairwoman.

More than 100 volunteers reached service milestones in the past year and received service award pins. Those recognized for 30 or more years of service were Gloria Hooper, Evelyn Smith, Margaret Strickland, Margaret Osborne, Carolyn Brown, Mary Emma Stribling and Lorena Collins.

For more information about volunteering with the Medical Center Auxiliary, call 770-219-1830 or visit www.nghs.com.