February 2, 2026, MORRIS, IL- Erika Arambula has made a big impact on the Human Resources Department at Morrris Hospital & Healthcare Centers over the past three years. The compassion and kindness she shows to everyone she interacts with, both on the phone and in person, makes Arambula well respected among her coworkers and peers throughout the organization. In recognition of the positive impact she makes across the organization, Arambula was selected as the first Fire Starter of the Month for 2026.
Morris Hospital Director of Human Resources Sheri Beene says Arambula is a role model for professionalism in everything she does.
“Erika brings a strong spirit of teamwork, treats everyone with courtesy and kindness, and creates a welcoming, friendly environment. She reflects the very best of our organization,” says Beene. “Erika’s positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond make a meaningful difference each day, and I am so grateful to have her on our team.”
For Arambula, a career in healthcare was always something she dreamed of pursuing. From a young age, she had a desire to help others, and as she grew older, she discovered that providing excellent customer service was her passion.
“I always thought I would work in healthcare somewhere, maybe working in a medical office at the front desk, but I did not expect a career in human resources at a hospital is where I would end up,” says Arambula. “While I have experience working in customer service in different areas of healthcare, I have always tried to find meaningful ways to help people no matter what role I am in.”
In nominating Arambula for Fire Starter, previous Fire Starter honoree Joanna Mueller praised her excellence when working with other departments.
“Erika leads by example. She is a great role model for new employees and sets the standard for everyone she works with,” says Mueller. “She is often the first face you see when you visit Human Resources and the first voice you hear when you call the department. Erika goes out of her way to make sure the work is done correctly and that the person she is speaking with feels supported. We are lucky to have her as part of the Morris Hospital family.”
When asked what she enjoys most about her work, Arambula says it is the people she gets to interact with throughout the organization.
“I am fortunate to be able to speak with and get to know many of our employees, both in clinical and non-clinical roles,” says Arambula. “Building these relationships helps me better understand their roles so I can assist them in the future. My goal is always to be helpful, informative, and supportive.”
In early civilizations, fire starters were individuals who had the important job of keeping the flame alive. With over 1,500 employees, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers is the largest employer in Grundy County.
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