During the Florida Health Care Association’s 2023 Annual Conference in Orlando in July, several long term care professionals were recognized for their outstanding dedication to the Association and the profession as part of FHCA’s annual Long Term Care Achievement Awards.
John Mangine, COO of Southern Healthcare Management (SCM) and Our Florida Promise Executive Committee member, earned FHCA’s highest honor. John was named the 2023 Walter M. Johnson, Jr. Circle of Excellence Award recipient and joins a distinct group of leaders of the association and within the long term care profession. John has worked in long term care for nearly 40 years. He is known for mentoring others to grow in the profession and understands that for Florida to lead the way in quality care, FHCA must help with continuing to develop leaders and inspiring future generations to consider long term care as a career path.
Stephanie Norsen, administrator of Island Lake Center of Longwood, was honored as the 2023 Nursing Home Administrator of the Year. Stephanie has a passion for delivering high quality care. She exemplifies the principles of leadership and the importance of treating residents and staff like family. Over the past decade, Stephanie has helped her centers achieve the Silver Quality Award, Joint Commission accreditation, and a zero-deficiency survey result.
Stephanie Frazier, Senior VP of Housing at the Tradition of the Palm Beaches, was honored the 2023 Assisted Living Facility Administrator of the Year. Stephanie is an exceptional leader who demonstrates incredible competence, compassion and dedication to the staff and residents. As a result, the facility has an outstanding track record of zero-deficiency survey results.
Jen Lawrence, Chief Nursing Officer at Aston Health, was honored the 2023 Arthur H. Harris Government Services Award recipient. Jen played an important role during the 2023 Legislative Session, providing insight and expertise on clinical workforce and compliance issues. Her support contributed to the Florida Legislature passing legislation to allow the use of Qualified Medication Aides in Florida’s nursing centers.
Brinn Helton of Gentell was honored as the Willis J. Gregson Associate Member of the Year. Brinn has been a long-time member of the Associate Member Support Committee. She is always encouraging member involvement and participating in everything from district meetings to social gatherings.
Additionally, FHCA honored a number of individuals for making an impact on the lives of residents and helping to enhance the quality of life in Florida’s long term care centers.
Mr. David DeMunecas, a resident at the Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Melbourne, was recognized with the Joe Negron Resident of the Year Award for his friendliness, positivity, and sense of humor. At his center, he is known as a ray of sunshine and the center’s one-man welcoming committee for new residents.
Mr. Chuck Kravitz was recognized with the Volunteer of the Year Award for his service to the Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Melbourne. Chuck has been volunteering at the center for over 14 years. He encourages residents and staff through his smile and singing. He is the center’s primary religious volunteer. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Chuck continued volunteering and conducting Bible studies through Zoom. Chuck plays an integral part in offering social interaction, mental engagement, live entertainment, and long-standing friendship.
Cliff Bauer was also named the 2023 FHC PAC Star for his outstanding advocacy and support of the Association’s grassroots initiatives to ensure the voices of long term care providers are heard in the Florida Legislature.