During FHCA’s 2018 Annual Conference in Hollywood, the Association recognized several individuals and organizations as part of the 2018 Long Term Care Achievement Awards. These recipients demonstrated leadership within the profession and a strong commitment to resident quality care and quality of life.
Arthur H. Harris Government Services Award
Elaine Bloom, Plaza Health Network
The Honorable Elaine Bloom (right) has testified on behalf of FHCA and the long term care profession numerous times before the state Legislature. During her 18 years in the Florida House of Representatives she played an instrumental role in authoring legislation that created the Department of Elder Affairs and the Agency for Health Care Administration. “We’re proud to recognize Elaine for her dedication to our profession and the people we serve,” said Emmett Reed, executive director of FHCA.. “When she left office, her passion for advocating for the elderly did not stop as she continues to be a voice for providers and residents both locally and in Tallahassee.”
Nursing Home Administrator of the Year
Bob Murphy, Whispering Oaks of Tampa
Bob Murphy (center), a long term care administrator for more than 25 years, is an inspirational leader of his center’s residents and staff. His involvement and commitment have been unwavering throughout his seven years at Whispering Oaks, and the center is thriving under his guidance. An active community member and participant on FHCA committees, Murphy is constantly going above and beyond to enhance his skills as an administrator. His proactive attitude and attention to detail are the keys to the success of his center and the well-being of its residents.
“Both residents and staff boast about Robert’s caring, compassion, and listening skills,” said Mel Beal, CEO of Airamid Health Services, who nominated Murphy for the honor. “His leadership and tireless dedication has led to superior outcomes for residents, positive experiences for staff, and outstanding marks for the center that are recognized by the community, CMS, AHCA, and our national association.”
Assisted Living Facility Administrator of the Year
Suzette Garcia, Windsor Place at Orlando Lutheran Towers
Garcia (center) has worked at Windsor Place for almost 10 years, serving as Administrator since 2013. She is known throughout the center as a team player, respected leader, admired peer, and compassionate resident advocate. Garcia is committed to lifelong learning, culture change, innovations in workforce administration, low turnover and employee career climb opportunities to better her center. She also supports future leaders in long term care, working with local schools and interns to promote their development in the profession.
“Suzy’s philosophy of ‘lead by example’ has resulted in the positive direction of staff tenure, reliability, turnover rate, and overall employee satisfaction,” said Kerry Gerrity, the center’s Chief Operating Officer. “She is an effective leader who encourages transparent and honest communication to ensure the culture of the organization is that of kindness, compassion, and sensitivity.”
Willis J. Gregson Associate Member of the Year
Adam Furman, Medline Industries
Furman (right center) is VP Manager of the Southeast Region at Medline Industries. An active member of the Association for more than a decade, Furman recognizes the important role business partnerships play in supporting continuous quality improvement in long term care. This keen understanding has led his organization to take a more significant role with the Association over time, helping FHCA enhance its quality cabinet, quality award programming, and Lobby Wednesday activities. “The level of Adam’s support and generosity is extraordinary,” said Tim Gregson of FHCA, son of the late Willis J. Gregson. “He is always a phone call away, and we know we can continue to count on him for advocacy in the long term care environment.”
Media & Community Involvement Award
Avante at Inverness
Avante at Inverness constantly showcases its tremendous quality care for its residents through a very active social media presence and strong relationships with local media. Whether the center’s annual family reunion or a surprise visit by drag racing legend Don Garlits to celebrate veterans during the Independence Day holiday, the local community remains involved in the celebrations through newspaper coverage and engaging content on Avante at Inverness’ popular Facebook page.
“Vendors who come to our center always say it’s the most happening facility they’ve ever experienced,” said Bobbie Jo Eckert, Human Resource Manager of Avante at Inverness. “If our center is having a special guest or activity, you can guarantee we’re letting the community know how they can take part.”
Georgette Bass (left), the center’s Director of Activities for more than 12 years, actively manages the Facebook page and coordinates many of the activities the residents enjoy on a weekly basis. Some of these activities include play dates with Dinky the therapy horse and celebrating awareness holidays like Certified Nursing Assistant month. Beloved by both staff and residents, Georgette is known for always having a camera on hand. The photos she takes reflect the compassion she has for getting the word out about the amazing care the center provides.
Adult Volunteer of the Year
Donald Findly, The Springs at Lake Pointe Woods of Sarasota
Rain or shine, Findly has volunteered in the activities department of the center on a daily basis for more than seven years. Whether by talking with residents one on one or engaging them in a new group activity, Findly always makes sure he’s involved in giving residents the care they deserve. Findly’s outgoing personality makes him an instant friend to both residents and staff of The Springs at Lake Pointe Woods. Now in his eighth year of volunteering at the center, he constantly looks to enhance his leadership skills through his willingness to accept challenges.
“I have been in health care for nearly 40 years and have never seen such a committed, dedicated, and caring individual as Don,” center Administrator Brian Parsons said. “He always goes the extra mile for the residents, because he knows he is truly making a difference in their lives, which in turn enriches his life.”
Young Adult Volunteer of the Year
Railey Conner, Crestview Rehabilitation Center
From its modest start as a service project to collect gifts and personal hygiene items for residents, Conner’s volunteer work with Crestview Rehab Center now spans more than seven years. Her genuine interest in the residents’ hobbies and life stories has led her to develop lasting relationships with many of them. A junior at Baker High School, 17-year-old Conner, is an excellent student who is also dual enrolled with the local community college, all while managing to be a star player on her school’s volleyball team
“Railey started a very selfless and thoughtful journey when she was only 11 years old by bringing love to many of our elderly population in Crestview,” Administrator Renita C. Enfinger said. “In doing her part to provide sincere appreciation and love to our residents, she does it all with a caring approach which is our Mission here at Crestview Rehabilitation Center.”
