2026 Award Recipients and Honorees

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2026 Award Recipients and Honorees

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WHCA/WICAL Proudly Recognizes the 2026 Award Recipients & Honorees

2026 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

Cedarburg Health Services
Delavan Health Services
Dimensions Living Stevens Point
Green Bay Health Services
Holton Manor
Kewaunee Health Services

Bronze Quality Award Recipients

Ashland Health Services
Dimension Living Monroe I
Dimensions Living Eau Claire I
Dimensions Living Eau Claire II
Dimensions Living Green Bay
Dimensions Living Kenosha
Dimensions Living Oconomowoc
Dimensions Living Wausau
Dove Healthcare Rice Lake
Hamilton Health Services
Lake Country Landing
Northland Lodge Assisted Living
Nu-Roc Health and Rehabilitation Center
Plymouth Health Services
River View Lodge Assisted Living
Sheridan Health and Rehabilitation Center
Southern Horizon Assisted Living
SouthPointe Health Care Center
Stoney River Assisted Living

2026 Heather Bruemmer WCCEAL Provider Award Recipient

North Shore Health

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.

Congratulations to North Shore Health and the following communities on this well-deserved recognition:

Applegate Terrace
Nekoosa Court
Northland Lodge
Sherwood Lodge
Lake Country Landing
River Run
Point Manor
River View Lodge
Southern Horizons

2026 Shining Star Award Winners

Leadership Award

Jackie Duryee – Administrator at Timber Oaks

Jackie’s journey at Timber Oaks began as a facility nurse, where her compassion and dedication to residents quickly made a lasting impression. Today, as Administrator, she continues to put residents first, treating them like family and ensuring their needs and concerns are always heard. Jackie is known for staying late or coming in early when residents need her, keeping an open door for staff and residents, and never hesitating to jump in wherever she is needed. Whether she’s helping on the floor, serving meals, greeting guests, or finding solutions to unexpected challenges, Jackie leads by example and never asks her team to do anything she wouldn’t do herself.

What makes Jackie especially beloved by her coworkers is her ability to balance strong leadership with kindness, fairness, and a sense of humor. Her team describes her as a supportive leader and trusted friend, crediting her with helping them grow both personally and professionally. She creates a workplace where employees feel respected, valued, and empowered, while making sure there is always room for laughter—even when that means being the target of a good-natured prank involving a three-page application to adopt a robotic pet for her residents! Beyond Timber Oaks, Jackie gives back to her community through the Union Grove Chamber of Commerce, local fundraisers, and leadership initiatives, while also helping high school students explore careers in healthcare. The enthusiasm of her coworkers in nominating her speaks volumes about the impact she has made.

Director of Nursing Award

Ebony Swift – Director of Nursing at Waters Edge Health and Rehab

Ebony has proven herself to be an exceptional Director of Nursing, bringing strong clinical leadership, compassion, and a positive attitude to Water’s Edge Nursing and Rehab. She stepped into the role during a period of major transitions, with a new Administrator, state surveyors on-site, and daily challenges that would test even the most experienced leaders. Rather than backing down, Ebony embraced the chaos with confidence, humor, and a determination to make things better. She has brought structure to the building, strengthened relationships with employees, and earned the trust and respect of residents and families through her genuine care and willingness to help.

Ebony is known for going above and beyond, whether she’s coaching and mentoring staff, driving clinical improvements, or turning a routine nursing and CNA skills fair into what one coworker jokingly called the “Super Bowl of Skills Fairs,” complete with a theme, vendors, and prizes. Her coworkers appreciate her extensive knowledge, problem-solving skills, and ability to make even the toughest situations feel manageable. They know that when Ebony says she has something handled, they can take it off their worry list. Affectionately credited with adding a little “Ebony Dust” to make things work even better, she combines high expectations with encouragement, accountability, and a sense of humor that keeps her team going. As she continues to expand her administrative knowledge and pursue her LNHA license, Ebony’s coworkers see tremendous potential in her future leadership.

Direct Caregiver Award

Jenny Sarver – RN at Holton Manor

Jenny Sarver is a shining example of compassion, dedication, and resilience, bringing a genuine love for caring for others to her role as a nurse. Even while facing her own difficult health challenges, Jenny continues to show up for her residents and coworkers with a smile, a positive attitude, and a willingness to help wherever she is needed. Her coworkers describe her as dependable, hardworking, and someone who consistently gives her best, even on the hardest days. What stands out most is her unwavering concern for others and the pride she takes in making sure her residents receive the care and attention they deserve.

Jenny’s strength and perseverance have made a lasting impression on those around her. She never lets life’s challenges define her; instead, she continues to approach each day with kindness, professionalism, and a desire to make a difference. Whether she is providing compassionate care to residents or stepping in to support a coworker, Jenny demonstrates the true meaning of teamwork and selflessness. Her positive attitude and determination inspire those who work alongside her and serve as a reminder of the profound impact one person can have on others.

Support Staff Awards

Brooke McElfresh –Medical Records at Hayward Health Services

Brooke has become an invaluable part of Hayward Health Services, demonstrating that making a difference in long-term care often happens through the little things that mean the most. In her roles overseeing medical records, central supply, and transportation, Brooke consistently goes above and beyond to ensure residents have what they need, whether she is coordinating a safe ride to an appointment, making sure supplies are available, or following up on important details so nothing falls through the cracks. Her supervisors describe her as someone who never waits to be asked to help; she simply sees what needs to be done and takes ownership. From passing meal trays and greeting residents in the hallway to stepping outside for a quick break with someone who needs company, Brooke finds meaningful ways to connect with residents and help them feel at home.

Though Brooke may prefer to stay out of the spotlight, her compassion, reliability, and dedication are noticed by everyone around her. She embodies North Shore’s values of Trust, Engagement, Passion, Respect, and Competence through her everyday actions, treating residents with kindness and patience while supporting her coworkers and helping the entire team succeed. Her attention to detail, strong follow-through, and willingness to step in wherever needed make her someone others can count on.

Candi Mueller – Social Worker at Park View Home

Candi Mueller has made an incredible impact at Park View Home since joining the team in May 2024, bringing a fresh perspective, infectious energy, and a genuine passion for caring for older adults. Despite coming to long-term care from a background in real estate, Candi has quickly excelled as the facility’s Designated Social Worker, exceeding expectations through her compassion, leadership, and dedication to residents and their families. You’re unlikely to find Candi sitting in her office—she spends her days visiting residents one-on-one, completing assessments, encouraging participation in activities and meals, and helping ensure every resident feels heard, supported, and connected. Whether she is navigating challenging psychosocial situations, coordinating admissions and discharges, arranging follow-up care, or finding ways to improve processes, Candi approaches every responsibility with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine desire to help.

Candi’s positive spirit reaches every corner of Park View Home, from the residents and families who appreciate her caring nature to the CNAs and young team members who regularly seek her guidance and support. She leads with humility, listens to others’ ideas, and steps forward when something needs to be done, all while bringing humor, laughter, and encouragement to the workplace. Her coworkers describe her as a “valuable jewel” and celebrate the energy she brings to the facility, including the familiar giggle heard down the hallway. Candi also embraces special events and activities, inspiring residents and staff to participate and strengthening the sense of community that makes Park View special. Through her willingness to stay late, lend a hand wherever needed, and continually advocate for residents, Candi exemplifies Park View’s tradition of caring.

Susan Breaker – Receptionist at Oak Ridge Care Center

Susan Breaker has been a valued member of Oak Ridge Care Center since 2008, serving as the front desk receptionist and medical records coordinator while taking on a variety of additional responsibilities, including transportation scheduling and coordinating doctor appointments. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, customer service, and resident well-being, Susan ensures that every detail is handled thoughtfully and every person who contacts or visits the facility feels welcome. As one of the first points of contact for families, providers, vendors, and community members, she greets everyone with a warm smile, a friendly conversation, and a genuine willingness to help. Whether she is answering the phone with patience and professionalism, helping a visitor find their way, or going the extra mile to ensure a resident has transportation to an important medical appointment, Susan approaches every task with care and determination. Even when faced with new technology or changing responsibilities, she perseveres, relying on her famous collection of Post-it notes to master new procedures and keep everything organized in her own unmistakable way.

Beyond her attention to detail and strong work ethic, Susan brings a special warmth and personality to Oak Ridge Care Center that makes her truly stand out. She has built meaningful relationships with residents and their families, and her cheerful presence helps create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the facility. Her love of holidays is another hallmark of her personality, as she enthusiastically decorates the front office and dresses for the occasion, whether that means reindeer ears at Christmas, hearts on Valentine’s Day, or a sea of green for St. Patrick’s Day. Coworkers know they can count on Susan to keep things moving, treat everyone with kindness and respect, and stand firm in doing what is right for residents. Her consistency, compassion, and dedication have made her an invaluable part of the Oak Ridge team for nearly two decades.

2026 Shining Star Honorable Mentions

Below are all of the leaders, directors of nursing, caregivers, and support staff nominated for 2026 Shining Star Awards. Please help us in congratulating all of the nominees!

Click here to download your honorable mention certificate!

Leadership

Tricia Penney, Executive Director, Sheboygan Progressive
Judy (Rose) Johnson, CNA, NuRoc Health & Rehab Center
Andrea Simonovic, Adon, Holton manor
Shannon Bruce, Human Resources, Holton Manor
Alyssa Ramirez, Administrator, Holton Manor
Cory Boivin, Charge Nurse, LPN, Holton Manor
Kathryn Schenk, CNA Supervisor, Holton Manor
Jacqueline Williams, Senior Executive Director, Dimensions Living Stevens Point
Briceida Tapia, Dietary Server, Holton Manor
Alyssa Sarasin, Administrator, Holton Manor
Mayela Gomez, Dietary Manager, Holton Manor
Kim Gottsacker, PTA, Holton Manor
Jasmina Gutierrez-Felix, Administrator, Beloit Health and Rehab
Nicole Stangel, ED, Heritage Health Services
Kay Burks, Staff and Development, Ingleside Manor
Shannon Clark, ADON, Ingleside communities

Director of Nursing

Morgan Kleifgen, Director of Nursing, Three Oaks Health Services
Tasha Schulke, Diector of Nursing, Madison Health and Rehabilitation
Sheree Spencer, Director of Nursing, Eastview Health and Rehabilitation
Megan Orozco, Director of Nursing, Holton Manor
Sheree Spencer, Director of Nursing, Eastview Health and Rehabilitation Center
Sara Lippett, Director of Nursing, Ingleside communities

Direct Caregiver

Renee Peterson, Certified Nursing Assistant/Mentor, Hope Health and Rehabilitation Center
Lisa Freeman, CNA, Holton Manor
Katie Schenk, CNA Supervisor, Holton Manor
Isabella Acevedo, LPN, St Ann Health & Rehabilitation Center
Reanne Bagemehl, RN, East Troy Manor
Lauren Stillman, RN- Nurse Manager, Oak Ridge Care Center
Edgar Orozco, CNA, Holton Manor
Vanessa Aranda, CNA, Holton Manor
Cory Boivin, Charge Nurse, Holton Manor

Support Staff

Riley Vaughn, Activity Aide/CNA, Holton Manor
Sarah Mlinar, Activities/Maintenance, Holton Manor
Kailey Tesar, Nursing scheduler, Holton manor
Valerie Shirriff, Social Services Director, Hayward Health Services
Lisa Freeman, CNA, Holton Manor
Shannon Bruce, Humana Resources Manager, Holton Manor
Wendy Haase, Business Office Assistant, Holton Manor
Kristina Wietor, Business Office Manager, Hope Health and Rehabilitation Center/Oak Ridge Care Center
Brittany Huss, Admissions Coordinator/Scheduler, Hope Health and Rehabilitation Center
Jody Welch, Office Manager, Holton Manor
Adelina Barreto, Dietary Aide, Holton Manor
Bri Tapia, Dietary Aide, Holton Manor
Mayela Gomez, Dietary Manager, Holton Manor
Jennifer Kenton, Physical Therapist, Holton Manor
Lisa Hakes, Shift Lead, Wellington Place at Biron
Candy Parent, Director of Social Services, Holton Manor
Maribel Palos, Medical Records, Holton Manor
Mary Dobbs, Human Resources Director, Ingleside Communities