Cooper University Health Care recently was recognized by the governor’s Department of Veterans Affairs with the “We Value Our Veterans” Employer Award for its commitment to veterans’ causes and support of veterans.
The honor came during a Veterans Day ceremony held at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial in Holmdel.
The “We Value Our Veterans” Award gives counties, municipalities, businesses, and academic institutions across New Jersey the opportunity to value and honor the sacrifices, patriotism, and bravery displayed by men and women who have worn the military uniform.
To receive the award, Cooper completed a rigorous application process that weighs a broad range of criteria demonstrating an organization’s commitment to its veterans and veteran causes as a whole. Employers are awarded points for specific initiatives such as providing veterans-only parking, recognizing veteran-owned businesses, honoring veterans on Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day, and other holidays, volunteering at veteran-related and community-based events and any additional unique programs offered by an organization to support employees who served.
Cooper Board chair George Norcross said the organization was humbled by the honor.
“We are truly honored by this recognition from the New Jersey Governor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, acknowledging Cooper’s commitment to supporting veterans and veteran causes,” he said. “Veterans play an essential role in our organization, demonstrating exceptional leadership, resilience, and dedication across our departments. Their service ethos enriches our team and strengthens our mission to provide outstanding care to every patient we serve.”
Cooper University Health Care is a national leader in providing specialized care for military personnel, veterans, and their families, as well as in training combat medical teams.
Through HeroCare Connect—a unique collaboration with Deborah Heart and Lung Center—Cooper offers expedited access to high-quality healthcare in more than 75 specialties, ensuring prompt support for veterans, active military members, and their families. As the only Level I Trauma Center in southern New Jersey, Cooper is among the region’s busiest, and its extensive experience in trauma, surgery, and critical care has positioned it as the only U.S. hospital to train elite medical providers from every military branch, government agencies, and international partners through its Section of Military, Diplomatic, and Field Surgical Affairs.
Cooper also honors veterans and active service members year-round through special recognition programs and, in 2014, was awarded the Department of Defense’s “Seven Seals Award” for its services to veterans.
Cooper Co-CEO Kevin O’Dowd said the honor recognizes the organization’s commitment to all veterans.
“This award honors Cooper University Health Care’s commitment to those who have served – our own Cooper team members as well as those in the community we have the privilege to serve,” he
said. “We dedicate this to all veterans, who continue to inspire us with their resilience and sacrifice. Serving our veterans is a privilege, and we are honored to support them in health and well-being.”
Co-CEO Anthony Mazzarelli agreed.
“Cooper is proud to employ veterans and active military as part of our Cooper team,” he said. “Those who have selflessly served our country possess many of the strengths that Cooper seeks when hiring team members, including the ability to work in teams, organizational and problem-solving skills, and a sense of duty to serve others.”
