Senior Accountant Named July Fire Starter of the Month
July 23, 2025, MORRIS, IL – Jen Theobald has made a remarkable impact on the Morris Hospital Accounting department over the past two and a half years. With a strong passion for numbers and problem solving, she has become the go-to person when anyone in the department has a question. A self-described “perfectionist,” Theobald uses her attention to detail and investigative mindset to ensure the hospital’s expenditure reports accurately reflect the financial statements. Her commitment to excellence truly sets her apart. In recognition of all she contributes, Theobald has been named Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers’ July Fire Starter of the Month.
Morris Hospital Assistant Vice President of Finance Renee Prew says Theobald embodies all the qualities of a Fire Starter. “Jen is an excellent communicator who is always seeking ways to support others, both within and beyond our department,” says Prew. “She can take large volumes of information and clearly communicate her findings. She is also proactive about using our tools and systems to improve our processes. She is incredibly deserving of being named fire starter.”
For Theobald, accounting is the perfect match for her skills and personality. With a love for numbers and a curious mind, she describes her work as solving a new puzzle every day.
“I come in every day with a new challenge to work through, and I absolutely love that,” says Theobald. “The work I do with hospital expenses is closely reviewed by auditors, so it is important that everything is accurate and properly documented. I take pride in that responsibility.”
A Morris resident, Theobald values the hospital’s commitment to the community. Even though she works behind-the-scenes in a non-clinical role, she clearly understands how her work contributes to the hospital’s mission.
“Accounting exists in almost every industry, but I chose healthcare because I wanted to be part of something meaningful,” Theobald shares. “Throughout my career I have worked in retail and banking, but this role allows me to help people in a different way. Being a part of this hospital means something, not just as an employee, but as a community member. I see firsthand how vital we are to Grundy County, and I am proud to be a part of it.”
When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Theobald says, “I love diving into the numbers and uncovering the story behind them. There is a real sense of satisfaction in solving something complex. I have always been good at math, and I am grateful that I get to use those skills to support the hospital and in turn, our community.”
In nominating Theobald, Morris Hospital Senior Financial Analyst and previous Fire Starter recipient Kelley Smith praised Theobald’s impact on the department.
“I knew from the start that Jen would be an incredible addition to our team,” wrote Smith. “She tackled longstanding challenges head-on and brought smart, practical solutions to the team. Her dedication, work ethic, and positive attitude have strengthened our department. She pushes everyone around her to do better and be better, which is truly rare. We are so lucky to have her.”
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.
# # #
