Ambassadors of Excellence: Markelia Norris

For Veterans visiting the outpatient pharmacy in Charleston, that welcoming face is often Markelia Norris, a pharmacy technician who brings both professionalism and warmth to her role. 

Markelia joined the Ralph H. Johnson VA HCS nearly a year ago and says her decision to serve Veterans was personal. “My Veterans have served our country, and now it’s time for me to serve them, to pay them back for their services,” she said. “It’s an awesome yet humbling experience.” 

Working at the outpatient pharmacy window, Markelia is the first point of contact for Veterans picking up prescriptions. Her approach is simple but powerful: greet each Veteran with kindness, a smile, and the respect they deserve.

 “I was born and raised to treat people the way you want to be treated, and that is my goal every day,” she explained. Veterans notice the effort. “She was able to quickly help me get meds and had amazing customer service,” one said. Another added, “She is so kind and sweet. She didn’t hesitate to help me immediately.” Others described her service as “outstanding,” with “amazing professionalism and promptness.” 

For Markelia, those comments mean everything. “To be nominated is indeed an honor and a pleasure that my Veterans see something in me,” she said. “It’s very important to me because one mistake could cost a patient their life, so we double check to make sure every Veteran receives the right medication. You only get one chance to make a good impression, and I want every Veteran to leave with a positive experience.”

Markelia is also quick to credit her team. “Shout out to my pharmacy team,” she said. “They are amazing to work with, and it’s more like a family. 

I just love my Veterans and I’m here to serve.” Her smile, she says, is one of her most important tools. “They can come down sick, but just to see my smile brightens their day. If the shoes were on the other foot, I’d want to be treated the same way. That golden rule guides everything I do.”

 For her dedication, professionalism, and heartfelt service, the Ralph H. Johnson VA HCS proudly recognizes Markelia Norris as September’s Ambassador of Excellence.