Pinning ceremony honors new VA Medical Center director Jill Dietrich

Credit: Veteran Affairs

Credit: Veteran Affairs

Newly appointed VA Medical Center Director Jill Dietrich's pinning ceremony was held this afternoon, marking the first time a woman has been sworn in to the leadership role in the VA’s 150 year history.

"I was just extremely happy to be joining the ranks of the senior executive service and come lead the Dayton VA Medical Center, " said Dietrich.

RELATED: New Dayton VA director will be first woman in 150-year history 

Dietrich says she wants to create a high level of trust with the veterans and increase employee engagement.

"Listening sessions, and walking around talking to people and tours, the culture here is phenomenal. "People here care and they want to do what is best for the veterans," said Dietrich.

The Dayton VA has faced issues in the past, from a dental hygiene scandal in 2011 where a dentist was accused of not changing gloves between patients.

In 2015, a whistleblower brought attention to a patient backlog in the pulmonary clinic.

Officials say improvements have been made locally.

The VA is currently facing national issues like concerns over hiring enough qualified staff and providing timely patient access to healthcare.

The top of the VA is also facing problems.

President Donald Trump fired VA secretary David Shulkin last month, and has nominated White House doctor Navy Rear Admiral Ronny Jackson to take his place.

Dietrich says despite what's going on with the VA in Washington, the mission does not change at the local level here in Dayton.

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