Virginia Gay Hospital Announces the Retirement of Monica Starks After 38 Years of Dedicated Service
VINTON, IA – After an incredible 38-year career at Virginia Gay Hospital (VGH), Monica Starks is retiring on March 17, 2025—exactly 38 years to the day after she first joined the VGH team on St. Patrick’s Day in 1987.
Monica began her career at VGH after completing her training at Schoitz Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa. As only the second full-time employee in the X-Ray Department, she played a crucial role in providing essential imaging services, assisting with EKGs, and managing with just one day of radiologist coverage per week.
In 1991, Monica transitioned to the role of Radiology Manager, a position in which she thrived. One of her top priorities was to bring as many contract services in-house as possible. With the retirement of VGH’s sole radiologist approaching, she led the search for continued coverage, ultimately partnering with Radiologist Consultants of Iowa—a collaboration that remains strong to this day.
With the support of the Medical Staff, Virginia Gay Board, and Administration, Monica helped expand in-house services, ensuring VGH could offer advanced imaging, including CT, Ultrasound, MRI, Bone Densitometry, and Mammography. Her eagerness to learn and embrace progress played a vital role in the department’s growth.
Beyond her work in radiology, Monica served on numerous committees, including Medical Staff, Management Team, Infection Control, Safety, Medicare Compliance, Quality Assurance, and Employee Recognition/Appreciation/Retention. She also took on lighter-hearted roles, such as stuffing Easter eggs for over a decade—carefully ensuring no child ever received a black jellybean (those were her “fee” for services rendered!).
Monica’s dedication extended beyond the hospital walls. She spearheaded the annual Toy Drive in partnership with Horizons/Lutheran Services of Iowa and actively participated in community health and wellness initiatives, including the Farmer’s Market, Benton County Health and Wellness Fair, “Pink” basketball games, Ladies’ Night, Breast Cancer Awareness events, and the Pink 5K. Many will fondly remember seeing Monica and her husband stationed at their usual spot along the 5K route, cheering on participants.
Reflecting on her career, Monica expresses immense gratitude for the fulfilling and rewarding journey she’s had at VGH. She wouldn’t trade it for the world and considers herself incredibly fortunate to have both started and ended her professional journey at Virginia Gay.
Please join us in celebrating Monica Starks’ remarkable career and wishing her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!
