The aim of the awards is to highlight the importance of individual initiative and teamwork in serving patients and colleagues. Staff were invited to submit nominations, and a large number of well-argued nominations were received.

Safety
This category honors staff who approach safety and quality work with dedication and sincerity.

• Björn Gunnarsson, specialist doctor and clinical quality and safety manager:
“Plays a vital role and deserves praise for his strong commitment to strengthening the safety culture at SAk.”

• Ragnheiður Reykjalín Magnúsdóttir, assistant ward manager in psychiatry:
“She is a natural project manager and lives for quality work and improvements to ensure patient safety.”

Collaboration
This category highlights outstanding teamwork, communication, and positive influence within teams.

• Sólveig Hulda Valgeirsdóttir, head nurse of the internal medicine ward:
“Wonderful in every way—understanding, encouraging, supportive, excellent in teamwork, positive and lovely. It is a true honor to work with her. She has been a source of comfort during difficult times at work and communicates clearly and effectively. Sólveig always responds positively to ideas and tasks.”

Innovation / Development
Awarded for innovation and developmental work that improves services and enhances knowledge within the institution.

• Brynja Vignisdóttir, nurse:
“A pioneer in establishing the TMS team, advocating for the adoption of a new treatment and thinking progressively about service development. She introduced TMS treatments for patients in the outpatient psychiatry clinic.”

Professionalism
Recognition for diligent, responsible, and professional work in daily tasks.

• Brynja Dröfn Tryggvadóttir, head of the intensive care unit:
“She is professional, broad-minded, solution-oriented, and has a natural ability to engage her team. She puts others’ needs ahead of her own, guides her staff on how to grow in their roles, and provides strong support. Brynja leads her team well and stands up for them when needed.”

• Guðjón Kristjánsson, chief physician of internal medicine:
“A powerful team player who prioritizes patient welfare and the advancement of the institution. Shows respect to everyone—whether colleagues, patients, students, or relatives. Treats everyone equally and fairly. He is eager to teach, encouraging, and provides strong support to his team. He is hardworking and puts great effort into both caring for patients and expanding specialist services at the hospital.”

Communication
Recognition for warm, clear, and respectful communication with colleagues and patients.

• Eygló Brynja Björnsdóttir, head of the rehabilitation ward:
“A true role model in communication—warm, decisive, and conveys information clearly to staff. She easily gains people’s support, offers praise, and leads by example. She has a unique presence, connects with the team through respect and kindness, and manages the work of the rehabilitation ward with care and attention.”

Akureyri Hospital thanks everyone who submitted nominations and warmly congratulates the award recipients. The Motivation Awards serve as an important reminder of the strong culture that has been built within the institution—a culture based on respect, professionalism, positivity, and safety in service to the community.