2024 Award Recipients and Honorees
WHCA/WICAL Proudly Recognizes the 2024 Award Recipients & Honorees
2024 National Quality Award Recipients
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program is a progressive program that is based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. Participants move from the Bronze level, to Silver, and then ultimately to the Gold. Bronze recipients must demonstrate a groundwork for excellence by completing a self-assessment that outlines their organizational priorities and goals. Silver recipients outline their systematic approaches and demonstrate sustainable organizational and process results linked to their key customer requirements, success factors, and challenges. Gold recipients represent an elite group by meeting all of the demands of the Baldrige Criteria, they demonstrate the achievement of high levels of performance over time in the areas of: leadership, strategic planning, customer service, workforce, operations, and knowledge management.
Silver Quality Award Recipients
- Ellsworth Health Services
- Evergreen Health Services
- North Shore Healthcare at Marshfield
- Shawano Health Services
Bronze Quality Award Recipients
- Birch Hill Health Services
- Delavan Health Services
- Dimensions Living Stevens Point
- Elroy Health Services
- Green Bay Health Services
- Hamilton House Senior Living
- Hammond Health Services
- Kewaunee Health Services
- Meadow View Health Services
- Meadowbrook at Bloomer
- Meadowbrook at Chetek
- Morningside Health Services
- Nekoosa Court
- Oakwood Health Services
- Randolph Health Services
- Sheboygan Progressive Health Services
- Sherwood Lodge Assisted Living
- St. Francis Health Services
- Sturgeon Bay Health Services
- Sun Prairie Senior Living
- Three Oaks Health Services
- Twin Ports Health Services
- Williams Bay Health Services
- Wisconsin Dells Health Services
2024 Heather Bruemmer WCCEAL Provider Award Recipient
The Heather Bruemmer WCCEAL Provider Award for Assisted Living Quality is an annual award, presented to an assisted living provider who exemplifies Heather Bruemmer for their dedication to go above and beyond to provide quality care to their residents. The provider selected for this award exceeds the WCCEAL quality improvement initiatives and upholds the values of quality care as demonstrated so effectively by Heather Bruemmer. Some of the criteria considered for this award is: authentic collaboration with a focus to improve outcomes, effective communication that leads to improved quality, going above and beyond the call of duty, sacrificing self for others, leadership and motiving others to achieve something new and better, the presence of constant kindness, caring for others and the small details of their lives, and always placing residents at the forefront for both quality of care and quality of life.
Birch Haven Senior Living
2024 Shining Star Award Winners
Leadership Award
Becky Kern – Regional Director of Operations at AA Healthcare Management
Becky always knew she wanted to be in healthcare. She initially started out in nursing getting her CNA license in her senior year of high school. While working during college she became a PM supervisor and became involved on the operational side. This is where she discovered her love for not only nursing but leading people as well. Becky then quickly changed her major from nursing to health care administration. She graduated from UW-Eau Claire. While in school she also met and fell in love with her husband, Rob. They moved around following Becky’s career until settling in Sun Prairie, WI. Becky and Rob then have one son and an adopted daughter. Becky is now a regional director of operations for AA Healthcare.
“Nursing home administration is not just a job for Becky, it is a lifestyle, and her passion is what motivates people to grow in their roles. I have seen how other administrators operate and I can confidently say that Rebecca stands above the rest. I will never leave long-term care because of her and I know that is true for many others.”
Director of Nursing Award
MaLinda Krauss – Senior Director of Nursing at Hayward Health Services
MaLinda has dedicated her career to long-term/skilled care since obtaining her LPN in 2006. She went back to school and achieved her RN in 2015, followed by her BSN in 2019. While waiting to return to school to complete her associate’s degree in nursing, she decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, which she completed alongside her RN in 2015. In her 18 years as a nurse, she has held numerous roles: floor nurse, restorative nurse, weekend supervisor, charge nurse, unit manager, Assistant Director of Nursing, Regional Support nurse, MDS nurse, Director of Nursing, and currently Senior Director of Nursing. MaLinda has worked in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. She could not imagine working with any other population; being with people who need the most compassion when times get scary is where her heart remains
She is currently working at Hayward Health Services as the Senior Director of Nursing, overseeing a 59-bed community.
Outside of the joy her work brings, MaLinda’s personal life has also brought her much happiness and gratitude. She lived in Iowa since birth and decided to move to Northern Wisconsin in August 2021 to be closer to her husband’s aunt. The aunt has never married and has no children, so MaLinda and her husband wanted to be there for her as she aged. Raised primarily by her maternal grandparents, MaLinda developed a deep love and passion for caring for the elderly. She has a blended family with five brothers, so the chaos of healthcare is not unfamiliar to her. MaLinda married her husband, Mark, on Christmas Day 2002—yes, Christmas Day! At that time, she was caring for her grandfather, and it would have been her grandparents’ 60th wedding anniversary. She wanted to give him something to look forward to and avoid sadness on his anniversary, as her grandmother had passed away the previous April. MaLinda is blessed with five children, all boys: Vincent, Ethan, Calvin, Isaac, and Jonathan. She also has two granddaughters, Kim and Selena. The days may be long and busy, but she wouldn’t have it any other way!
“MaLinda is the glue behind our building. She is the one working like a bee behind the scenes to keep us afloat. It is incredibly honorable how MaLinda can be everywhere and everything to everyone all at once. There is not a single person in this building that has not felt the warmth from MaLinda’s positive attitude and steadiness. Her confidence, kindness, and knowledge can make anyone feel safe and competent.”
Direct Caregiver Awards
Gabby Monicken – CNA at Park View Home
Gabby Monicken has been a Certified Nursing Assistant at Park View Home since 2019, starting her career in high school. While continuing her education to become a Registered Nurse, Gabby has taken a leadership role in developing and mentoring new C.N.A.s through a successful training program she helped create in 2023. Her guidance has led to an impressive 92% retention rate among new hires. Gabby is known for her poise, leadership, and dedication to providing high-quality care.
“Gabby projects a warm, positive attitude to our residents and co-workers. She has grown as an individual, by handling a difficult situation with remarkable patience and kindness. Gabby communicates effectively with staff, residents and visitors, is organized and performs work effectively. She demonstrates willingness to teach and provides a positive learning experience. Gabby is GREAT!”
Mackenzie Roberts – Infection Control Nurse at Waters Edge Health and Rehab
Over the last 15 years, Mackenzie has been exposed to long-term care through family members who built their careers in the field, but it was not until her great-grandfather’s death a few years ago that she decided to pursue a nursing career. By spending the last few days with him, she saw the important role that a nurse can play in someone’s life and wanted to make a difference. She is still at the beginning of her career now, but looks forward to making things better and safer for the residents. She loves to spend time with them and see their smiles on a daily basis.
“Mackenzie has such a kind smile and is always willing to help us. She is always checking on us and will stand by our sides, holding our hand when we need someone there for support. Mackenzie is able to relate to us and likes to take the time to talk to us and make sure that we are alright and that all of our needs are taken care of. She makes us feel like we are really important and listens to what we think and feel.”
Shequilla Davis – Direct Support Professional at Dungarvin
Shequilla is a compassionate and dedicated caregiver with more than 28 years of experience in healthcare. Building and maintaining relationships is important to her, both in her personal and professional life. She finds joy in keeping families and care teams informed while caring for their loved ones through their daily routines.
Shequilla has worked in various settings, including nursing homes, group homes, and home health agencies. These experiences have humbled her and shaped her into the caregiver she is today.
Shequilla has completed several continuing education courses and is currently enrolled in school for business management. While working full-time as a direct support professional at Dungarvin and pursuing her education, she makes it a priority to spend time with her family. She has four siblings, four children, and eleven beautiful grandchildren, all of whom mean the world to her.
“Shequilla truly embodies the spirit of a cheerleader, inspiring those she supports to reach their full potential. Her dedication and hard work shine through in everything she does, making her an invaluable asset to her team. By fostering confidence and independence in those she serves, she creates an empowering environment that uplifts everyone around her.”
Support Staff Award
Josh Banaszynski – Assistant Maintenance Director at Oak Ridge Care Center
Josh is a proud father of two children, a 6-year-old son named Joshua Jaxon (JJ) and a 2-year-old daughter named Avery Jade (AJ). He has been happily married to his wife, Heidi, for nearly a decade. Josh enjoys sports, the outdoors, and introducing his family to new experiences.
Before working in maintenance at Oak Ridge Care Center, Josh gained extensive experience in the trades, including concrete, carpentry, and plumbing. In his younger years, he competed in professional paintball tournaments and played football.
For the first time in his career, Josh truly enjoys coming to work. He takes pride in identifying and solving the challenges that arise in the maintenance department at Oak Ridge and is always eager to learn new things. The fulfillment he gets from seeing residents’ and coworkers’ smiles when he resolves issues motivates him daily. Josh envisions a long-term future at Oak Ridge, where he looks forward to continued growth and making a difference.
“Josh’s positive attitude is infectious. He greets everyone with a warm smile. He is appreciated by the residents, family members, staff and other members of the leadership team. His hard work and compassion for the elderly are outstanding.”
Bob Archer – Director of Life Enrichment at Dimensions Living Appleton
Life Enrichment Director Robert “Bob” Archer is dedicated to infusing joy, excitement, spiritual support, and beauty into the lives of everyone he encounters. With a strong background in senior living, memory support, and spiritual wellness, he has enriched the lives of countless seniors and their families across the Fox Valley region.
As an ordained minister and Certified Dementia Practitioner, Bob brings a unique skill set to his role as life enrichment and spiritual care director at Dimensions Living Appleton. From leading non-denominational worship services to hosting locally renowned happy hours and popular community events, he goes above and beyond to ensure that all aspects of residents’ wellness are addressed through purposeful and engaging programming. He also prioritizes meaningful engagement with families, fostering a strong sense of community and inclusivity.
In addition, Bob is a professional musician who is skilled in playing the piano, organ, and flute, as well as proficient in guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, and various other stringed instruments. When he’s not performing for the residents of Dimensions Living Appleton, he has graced the stage with some of the nation’s top ensembles, including the Houston Grand Opera, Florentine Opera Company, Great Lakes Opera Company, Milwaukee Opera Theatre, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and numerous regional and local musical and theater groups.
An avid Timber Rattlers fan, Bob can often be found at their home games when he’s not working, cheering alongside his spouse of 30 years, Allen. Together, they share a passion for travel, with New Zealand being one of their favorite destinations. Bob also enjoys spending quality time with loved ones, including Faith, his seven-year-old Great Pyrenees, who he and Allen adopted from Saving Paws Animal Rescue, Inc. in 2017.
“Bob has consistently been a shining star at Dimensions Living Appleton by bringing a unique perspective to life enrichment and reminding the team that life does not stop when you move into assisted living!”
Rhonda Blaedow – Social Services Designee at Oakbrook Health and Rehab
Rhonda Blaedow has dedicated the past 24 years of her career to serving the community at Oakbrook Health & Rehabilitation. Her journey began as an Activity Assistant, but her desire to make a greater impact led her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), which was just the starting point.
Driven by a curiosity to learn and grow, Rhonda pursued additional certifications as a Medication Technician and an Activity Director. Along the way, she also earned credentials as a Medical Assistant. Today, she proudly serves as the Social Service Designee and Activity Director.
Through it all, the unwavering support of her coworkers, children, grandchildren, residents, and their families fuels her commitment to excellence. They are the reason she strives to be her best and provide the highest quality care every day.
“Rhonda will always go above and beyond to ensure the success of the facility and quality care for the residents. Whether it is coming in on a day off for an admission or filling a weekend CNA shift, she is always there. Rhonda loves Oakbrook so much that she already has a room reserved for herself if there ever comes a day she may need it! Oakbrook is blessed to have Rhonda as part of our family.”
2024 Shining Star Honorable Mentions
Below are all of the leaders, directors of nursing, caregivers, and support staff nominated for 2024 Shining Star Awards. Please help us in congratulating all of the nominees!
Click here to download your honorable mention certificate!
Leadership
- Amanda Janczewski Kaufman, Social Worker, Nu-Roc Health and Rehabilitation
- Becky Rossman, Activity Director, Stevens Point HS
- Cassidy Duquaine, Business Office Manager, Dimensions Living Green Bay
- Cory Boivin, Charge Nurse, Holton Manor
- Cynthia Kilgas, Executive Director, Willowdale Health Services
- Jaime Brandon, Concierge, Lincoln Park Nursing & Rehab
- Jeff Schueller, Vice President of Success, Northshore Healthcare
- Jennifer Abernathy, Sr. Executive Director, Hayward Health Services
- Kaylyn Dault, Executive Director, Dimensions Living Green Bay
- Kristina Kirschbaum, Unit Manager, Lancaster Health Services
- Mary Hernandez, Program Director, Rock County – Dungarvin
- Monica Heckel, ADON, Burlington Health and Rehabilitation
- Nora Leisner, VPS, Three Oaks
- Tricia Penney, Executive Director, Sheboygan Progressive
Director of Nursing
- Amanda Ocacio, LPN, Lincoln Park Nursing & Rehab
- Bambi Sikora, Director of Nursing, Cornell Health Services
- Melissa Spang, Director of Nursing, Oak Ridge Care Center
- Paula Marescalco, DON, Sheridan Health and Rehabilitation
- Rebecca Vanhulle, Director of Nursing, Dimensions Living Green Bay
- Sheree Spencer, DON, Eastview Health and Rehabilitation
- Tamara Anthony, Director of Nursing, Waterfall Health of Brown Deer
Direct Caregiver
- Brittany Richter, RN, Friendly VIllage
- Carol Bich, Certified Nursing Assistant, Lincoln Park Nursing& Rehab
- Crystal Hundley, Memory Care Coordinator, Hamilton House Senior Living
- Danielle Kelch, C.N.A, Ellsworth Health Services
- Denise Burton, LPN, Hammond Health Services
- Jeremy Kitelinger, CNA, Eden Brook of platteville
- Jessica Sorensen, LPN, Oak Ridge Care Center
- Linda Slaton, Certified Nursing Assistant, Lincoln Park Nursing & Rehab
- Lisa Cress, RN, North ridge Health and Rehabilitation
- Michaela Vanwoert, ADON-LPN, Edenbrook Platteville
- Paula Lightfoot, CNA, Eastview Health and Rehabilitation
- Phillip Muniz, LPN, Oak Ridge Care Center
Support Staff
- Amanda Janczewski Kaufman, MDS, Oconto Health and Rehabilitation
- Amy Pickel, Activity Director, Edenbrook Platteville
- Ashlan Johnson, Resident Services Coordinator, Beloit Health and Rehabilitaion
- Carissa Zillmer, Medical Records Coordinator, Delavan Health Services
- Jill Ostrowski, Housekeeper, Oak Ridge Care Center
- Kelly Johnson, Resident Housekeeper/Resident Assistant, Pine View Terrace Senior Living
- Kim Gregorich, Laundry, Kewaunee Health Services
- Kristin Kasten-Kania, Unit Manager, Eastview Health and Rehabilitation
- Leticia Mejia, HR and Business Office Manager, St.Ann Health and Rehabilitation
- Melissa Gunderson, MDS, Muskego Health and Rehabilitation
- Michael Flom, Activities Director, Madison Health and Rehabilitation
- Nancy Shafer, Medical Records, Ellsworth Health Services
- Rosemary Siegwarth, Dietary and Laundry Aide, Nu-Roc Health and Rehabilitation
- Shawna Chouinard, Medical Records Coordinator, Hammond Health Services
- Tim Freed, Maintenance Director, Edenbrook Platteville
- Trionna Stutts, Certified Nursing Assistant, Menomonee Falls Health Services