Anne Johnston, University of Rochester Medicine Thompson Health / September 29, 2026
CANANDAIGUA – Victor resident Mackenzie Kula is the latest recipient of the BEE Award from University of Rochester Medicine Thompson Health.
Kula is a patient care technician on floor 3 West, a medical/surgical unit at F.F. Thompson Hospital. A team of hospital representatives – including the CEO and chief nursing officer – surprised her with the award on the unit on Sept. 23.
The daughter of a patient who was on comfort care nominated Kula for the award, describing Kula as “amazing” and noting that she would stop in at the end of a shift – and even when he was under the care of others – to check on the man and talk with him. Always with a smile on her face, Kula would also check to see how the daughter was doing and if she needed anything.
“She really has a gift when it comes to end-of-life care,” the nomination said. “She didn’t have to go the extra mile, but she did! Just by her actions, she made my father feel like he still matters.”
Kula, who first joined Thompson in June of this year, is studying nursing at St. John Fisher University in Rochester.
Within Thompson, BEE stands for Being Exceptional Every day. The award was developed in 2025 to honor non-licensed nursing support team members. To nominate someone, visit www.ThompsonHealth.com/BEE.
Photo: Mackenzie Kula, a patient care technician on floor 3 West at F.F. Thompson Hospital, recently received the hospital’s quarterly BEE Award for her interactions with a patient who was receiving end-of-life care.
