CHA Healthcare Heroes

Yaw Adjepong, MD, Nocturnist

Gaylord Specialty Healthcare

Those who work nights at Gaylord Hospital will say the same thing about Dr. Yaw Adjepong: “We are incredibly lucky to have him.”

Dr. Adjepong works as Gaylord Hospital’s nocturnist three nights a week. Nights in a medical rehabilitation hospital aren’t simple. Patients are medically complex. Things can change quickly. Resources are different than during the day. The physician on duty is responsible for the entire hospital. It takes a special kind of clinician to do that work well. Dr. Adjepong does it exceptionally well.

His clinical judgment is outstanding. He does not hesitate to come to the bedside, assess the situation himself, and partner with nursing to determine the best plan. When a patient needs to be transferred, he moves quickly, ensuring a full report is given and families are notified. When a patient can safely remain in-house, he stabilizes them with confidence and precision.

What truly sets Dr. Adjepong apart is how he treats people.

He respects nurses’ assessments and values their input. Even if he sees a situation differently, he never dismisses concerns or makes anyone feel foolish for calling him. He explains his reasoning and teaches, using every interaction to help nurses grow stronger and more confident in their practice without making anyone feel small.

His incredible bedside manner immediately puts patients at ease. In tense or frightening moments, his calm presence reassures families and staff alike.

He handles nights that include multiple admissions, emergency transfers, rapid responses, and even end-of-life care, with kindness. He is steady when things are chaotic. He is compassionate when families are grieving. He is funny when the moment allows for it.

Gaylord night staff feel fortunate, confident, and supported working alongside Dr. Adjepong and know that their patients are in excellent hands. Dr. Adjepong is, undoubtedly, a Healthcare Hero.

Melissa Alphonse, Manager, Goldstone Caregiver Center

Northwell Health’s Norwalk Hospital

Melissa Alphonse is nominated for the Healthcare Hero award for her service as Manager of the Goldstone Caregiver Center at Norwalk Hospital.

Melissa has built and sustained a vital source of emotional support for family members of patients and for caregivers across our community, meeting people where they are, during demanding and stressful times, whether their loved one is hospitalized at Norwalk Hospital, at another facility or at home. The Center functions as a true sanctuary while also delivering practical, evidence-informed support that strengthens caregiver resilience and well-being.

Melissa ensures caregivers can access supportive, no-cost resources that make an immediate difference: a private quiet room; Tone Therapy and breathing exercises; computer and printer access; one-on-one and group support; and a caregiver library with community referral services. She also advances community outreach and education, so caregivers know where to turn for help, and she helps connect individuals to community agencies to navigate difficult situations with greater confidence.

Caring for the caregiver is especially urgent: in 2025, 63 million Americans were caregivers (AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving), nearly a 50% increase since 2015. Melissa’s work directly answers this growing need by ensuring caregivers are seen, supported and equipped with tools that sustain them through an often overwhelming chapter of life. The Goldstone Caregiver Center is made possible through the generous donation of Steven and Elizabeth Goldstone, and Melissa honors that gift by translating it into daily, compassionate impact.

Miranda Bencivenga, Manager, Goldstone Caregiver Center

Northwell Health’s Danbury Hospital

Caring for a loved one with health challenges can be rewarding, but it’s also one of the hardest jobs.

The Goldstone Caregiver Center at Danbury Hospital, established in 2015 as the first of its kind in Connecticut, is a haven for family caregivers. Made possible by the Goldstone Family Foundation, the Center offers a warm, homelike space where caregivers can rest, reflect and recharge.

“Whether caring for a patient in the hospital or navigating caregiving at home, caregivers can access personalized support, valuable resources and stress-relief opportunities — all at no cost,” said Miranda Bencivenga, LCSW, manager of the Goldstone Caregiver Center.

The Center’s programs include support groups, educational workshops and the Stay in Touch Program, which extends care beyond the hospital. Through regular check-ins, the program helps caregivers feel supported, promotes self-care and connects them to community resources.

Don Kelly found great comfort in the Center and recently shared:

“The Goldstone Caregiver Center is a lifeline for those of us supporting loved ones through cancer. It’s a place where you realize you’re not alone, and where connection, compassion and hope replace isolation. The staff care deeply, not just for patients, but for us as caregivers. It’s a physical manifestation of empathy and support that stretches throughout the hospital.

Caregiving is a journey that can feel overwhelming and isolating, but spaces like this remind us we are part of a larger community. Every caregiver faces moments of exhaustion and uncertainty, yet together, we find strength, share wisdom and lift each other up. The Center is proof that caring for caregivers is as vital as caring for patients.”

Caring for the caregiver is especially important now. In 2025, sixty-three million Americans were caregivers, according to AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, which is a nearly 50% increase since 2015.

Carol Borger, Manager, Laboratory Support Services

Griffin Health

Carol Borger has been a dedicated Griffin Health caregiver for more than 25 years and currently serves as the Laboratory Manager of Support Services. In 2020, Carol was asked to take on the responsibility of coordinating COVID 19 test specimen collections for skilled nursing facilities across Connecticut. What began with 10 facilities quickly expanded to 25 and ultimately grew to more than 100 skilled nursing homes statewide. This effort required exceptional leadership, meticulous attention to detail, and the management of more than 25,000 specimens each week during the period when patient and staff COVID-19 testing was required. Her essential work spearheaded an effort to protect one of the most vulnerable populations, identify infections quickly, limit the spread of COVID-19, and safeguarding both residents and frontline caregivers.

As statewide COVID testing programs concluded, a critical gap remained in providing consistent, on-site medical testing for skilled nursing facility residents, many of whom depend on essential diagnostic to manage chronic conditions and prevent complications. Under Carol’s leadership, her team stepped in to strengthen and expand access to these vital clinical services. What began as a necessary extension of care evolved into a sustained essential service. From 2023 to today, the program has grown into a robust service supporting more than 80 skilled nursing facilities and their patients throughout Connecticut, helping ensure a highly vulnerable senior population continues to receive high quality and timely medical testing.

Carol continues to devote seven days a week to ensuring patients receive the diagnostic testing they need. It is through her perseverance, commitment, and love for her profession that so many patients continue to receive the exceptional care they deserve.

Brian Byrne, MD, Oncologist and Medical Director of Quality and Safety

The Hospital of Central Connecticut

Since joining The Hospital of Central Connecticut in 2018, and simultaneously supporting MidState Medical Center, Brian Byrne, MD, an oncologist, serves as Medical Director of Quality and Safety. Since that time, he has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, visible leadership, and an unwavering commitment to advancing patient safety and clinical excellence.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Byrne has been a driving force behind meaningful quality improvement efforts across the organization. He has partnered closely with colleagues to align clinical and operational priorities in service of safer, more reliable care. His engagement is constant and purposeful — he is not only present, but actively shaping strategy, culture and outcomes.

Recognizing opportunities to strengthen system performance, Dr. Byrne has led and supported initiatives that have improved patient safety and reinforced a culture grounded in just culture principles. He has played an instrumental role in advancing our concordance with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, ensuring evidence-based, standardized practices that directly benefit our patients locally. His leadership contributions were also central to achieving a Leapfrog “A” rating, reflecting measurable improvements in safety and quality.

Dr. Byrne continues to expand his impact by championing TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety), an evidence-based method for addressing safety in healthcare delivery, in key areas of the hospital. His forward-thinking approach strengthens teamwork, communication and reliability in high-acuity clinical environments.

Dr. Byrne’s actions reflect a deep and sustained commitment to excellence, accountability and patient-centered care. His leadership has made a measurable difference for our patients, our colleagues and our health system.

Christopher Conner, MD, Neurosurgeon, Department of Neurosurgery, UConn Health Brain and Spine Institute

UConn John Dempsey Hospital

Dr. Christopher Conner exemplifies the very definition of a Healthcare Hero through his innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing patient care at UConn Health and across Connecticut.

A pioneering neurosurgeon, Dr. Conner is the first in the state to perform vagus nerve stimulation therapy, a groundbreaking treatment helping stroke survivors regain function and independence. His work is transforming lives for patients who previously had limited recovery options, offering new hope through cutting-edge neuromodulation techniques. He is also the first in Connecticut to utilize a vagal nerve stimulation approach in pediatric epilepsy in partnership with Connecticut Children’s, bringing advanced, life-changing care to some of the state’s most vulnerable patients.

Beyond his clinical excellence, Dr. Conner has demonstrated exceptional leadership in shaping the future of neuroscience care. He played a key role in advancing legislation to establish the UConn Health Center for Neuromodulation, with a mission to expand innovative care for veterans and other first responders. His vision positions Connecticut as a leader in this rapidly evolving field and ensures patients can access cutting-edge treatments close to home.

Dr. Conner’s commitment extends well beyond Connecticut. Through international medical mission trips, he provides critical neurosurgical care to underserved populations worldwide. Most recently, he traveled to Peru, bringing a resident to both deliver care and mentor the next generation of physicians.

He is equally dedicated to collaboration and education, working across disciplines to elevate standards of care. Patients and families consistently describe him as compassionate and deeply invested in their outcomes.

Through innovation, advocacy, and service, Dr. Conner is redefining neurological care and is a truly deserving recipient of the CHA Healthcare Hero Award.

Anthony Chieffalo, MD, Assistant Medical Director, DKH Hospitalist Program

Day Kimball Health

For nearly four decades, Dr. Anthony Chieffalo has been a dedicated physician and trusted leader at Day Kimball Hospital, providing exceptional care for generations of patients across northeast Connecticut while helping shape a culture of collaboration and excellence within the organization.

Dr. Chieffalo joined DKH in 1988 and cared for patients through his Woodstock-based practice before transitioning to the hospitalist program, where he now serves as Assistant Medical Director.

Throughout his career, Dr. Chieffalo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care and continuous improvement. His deep clinical knowledge and longstanding connection to the community give him a unique perspective that benefits both patients and care teams. Widely respected for his thoughtful communication, approachable demeanor, and consistent support of the entire team, he fosters a collaborative environment focused on delivering safe, efficient, and coordinated care.

Dr. Chieffalo’s organizational insight and clinical expertise also help identify opportunities to strengthen processes, improve communication across the service lines, and enhance the overall patient experience.

He actively contributes to the organization through medical staff leadership and committee service, including participation in quarterly medical staff meetings and the Medical Care Evaluation Committee, as well as past service on quality improvement, utilization review, stroke, and medical records committees. He also served as Chair of the Medical Staff Nominating Committee and as a member of the hospital’s board of directors.

In recognition of his longstanding service, Dr. Chieffalo was inducted into the Day Kimball Physician’s Hall of Fame, an honor awarded to physicians who have dedicated more than 25 years to the organization.

Today, Dr. Chieffalo continues to support the next generation of physicians by mentoring new hospitalists as they begin their careers at DKH.

Tom Fedora, RN, Rapid Response, Intensive Care Unit, Respiratory Support

Yale New Haven Hospital

There is no one at YNHH more deserving of the CHA Healthcare Hero Award than Tom Fedora. As a Rapid Response Nurse on the York Street Campus, Tom provides essential clinical support across the hospital, responding to urgent situations with exceptional skill, calm, and compassion. Whether stabilizing patients during Rapid Responses or Adult Medical Emergencies, or guiding newer nurses through challenging moments, Tom consistently makes a profound impact.

Tom’s dedication is widely recognized. He has received numerous RAVES for his empathy, expert clinical judgment, and natural leadership. He regularly exceeds expectations—coming in on his own time to mentor staff, offering debriefs after difficult cases, and even greeting colleagues at the staff entrance with candy to brighten their shifts. He also created and manages the “Love and Support” Facebook page, giving employees a space to connect and uplift one another.

Through his work on the Night Council, Tom has been an important advocate for night shift staff, championing meaningful changes such as improved recognition and better food access.

Patients and families frequently write letters describing the difference Tom has made in their care experience. They highlight his reassuring presence, his ability to bring calm during crises, and the genuine concern he shows long after the immediate event has passed. Tom builds strong, lasting connections with those he serves, offering support that extends well beyond clinical intervention.

Tom embodies everything we hope for in a healthcare professional—compassion, expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment. He elevates the experience of patients, families, colleagues, and the entire Yale New Haven Hospital community. He is the kind of nurse anyone would be grateful to have at the bedside, and the kind of colleague every team hopes to work alongside.

Krystin Gaetano, RN, Medical-Coronary Intensive Care Unit (MICU)

Bridgeport Hospital

Krystin Gaetano, RN, who works in the Medical-Coronary Intensive Care Unit (MICU) at Bridgeport Hospital, exemplifies what it means to be a healthcare hero through her unwavering conscientiousness, vigilance and deep commitment to patient safety. During a routine task that nurses perform countless times each day, she noticed that a set of IV tubing had unexpectedly fallen apart. Although her careful practice ensured that her patient was never in danger, Krystin understood that the issue represented a much larger potential risk. Instead of simply discarding the defective tubing and opening a new set, Krystin took the initiative to document the issue in the hospital’s safety platform, describing exactly how the tubing had failed and outlining the possible harm that could result if the defect went unnoticed. Her report, submitted along with the compromised tubing, was escalated to the supply chain team, who then used the information to alert the FDA. This report, combined with others, provided the evidence needed to prompt regulatory action requiring the manufacturer to cease distribution of the tubing until the defect was fully resolved and the product proven safe. Because of Krystin’s diligence, a potentially dangerous device was removed from circulation, protecting countless patients far beyond the walls of her own unit. Her actions embody the highest standards of nursing professionalism and demonstrate how one nurse’s attention to detail and willingness to speak up can drive system wide improvements in patient safety.

Brady Grotton, Paramedic

Windham Hospital

Windham Hospital paramedic Brady Grotton played a critical role in the emergency response to a structure fire that occurred in Mansfield on October 21. During the event, Deputy Chief Kevin Danielson of the Mansfield Fire and Emergency Services entered the burning building to assist with search-and-rescue efforts when he was overcome by heavy smoke conditions.

Upon his evacuation from the structure, Brady noticed Danielson exhibiting symptoms of smoke inhalation and immediately stepped in to provide medical care at the scene before coordinating with his team members to prepare him for transport to Windham Hospital.

Brady explained Danielson that his coughing was a concerning sign as he worked aggressively to prevent the progression of serious lung injury.

During transport, Brady and his team continued their observation and care for Danielson, communicating detailed updates to the hospital’s Emergency Department.

The transport to Windham Hospital was intense and Brady’s concern for Danielson’s condition was evident. His swift intervention not only helped save Danielson’s life, but exemplified the strong inter-agency collaboration that underpins effective emergency response.

Brady’s professionalism and decisive action highlighted the essential role paramedics play in protecting both the public and fellow first responders during high‑risk incidents.

Danielson said, “On behalf of my wife and sons, I extend my sincere gratitude. … I am grateful for the professionalism displayed that evening and for the friendships forged through this experience. Not all superheroes wear capes; some wear their passion in moments of crisis.”

Sara Heath, Occupational Therapist, Autism Center

Hospital for Special Care

Sara is an exceptional member of the Hospital for Special Care (HFSC) team who consistently exemplifies the organization’s core values – Caring, Integrity, and Pursuit of Excellence – while going above and beyond for her patients. Creative, passionate, and deeply dedicated, she brings both professionalism and heart to her work. Her calm approach, remarkable ability to make every patient feel seen and heard, and consistent positivity is invaluable to the team. Sara is a thoughtful collaborator and an outstanding representative of HFSC.

While working as a staff therapist in the Autism Center, Sara recognized the limited recreational opportunities available to her patients and took the lead in creating an inclusive Fun and Fitness Program in partnership with the Adaptive Sports Program. It provides vital recreation and socialization for the community and has been thriving for two years. Sara has recruited community experts, expanded programs to meet diverse interests, and pursued additional training, including water safety certification, to better serve participants. The program has not only benefited the children but also strengthened connections among families and staff.

Sara has also extensively supported the New Britain School system and played an instrumental role in developing the neurodiverse track for the HFSC Ivan Lendl Adaptive Sports Camp, expanding opportunities to participate in sport-specific activities for this underserved community.

Her clinical excellence is equally evident. An example of her expertise and care is when Sara identified concerning blood pressure changes during an occupational/physical therapy visit with a patient. She ensured prompt medical follow-up, assisted the patient safely to the car, and checked in the next day.

Hardworking, proactive, and compassionate, Sara continually seeks opportunities to improve patient care and resources. She is always willing to lend a helping hand and truly is an everyday hero within HFSC.

Susan Long, Assistant Nurse Manager

MidState Medical Center

A longtime nurse, Susan Long’s compassion extends far beyond the bedside. Recognizing a critical gap in care for patients experiencing homelessness, Sue took the initiative to create a clothing cart stocked with clean, weather-appropriate items for unhoused patients being discharged—ensuring they leave with dignity, warmth, and a better chance to recover safely.

What makes her efforts especially meaningful is that this initiative was entirely by her empathy and commitment to whole-person care. She has even taken patients’ worn clothes home to wash and has laundered donated items herself to ensure they are clean and ready for use.

Today, all units have access to the “clothes closet,” a lasting resource that supports some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Sue embodies the very best of healthcare—empathy, advocacy and initiative.

Victoria Maher, General Services Associate, Environmental Services Department

Bristol Health

Bristol Hospital is proud to nominate Victoria Maher for the distinguished recognition of Healthcare Hero, a title that reflects not only her extraordinary actions in critical moments but also the quiet, steadfast excellence she has demonstrated over more than 36 years of service. Victoria is the kind of team member who forms the backbone of a hospital. She is reliable, humble, deeply committed, and guided by a genuine desire to care for others. Her presence strengthens our organization every day, and her impact reaches far beyond the responsibilities of her role.

Victoria has long been a pillar of our Environmental Services team, known for her professionalism, her wisdom, and her willingness to mentor new employees. She embodies the spirit of service that keeps a hospital running with dignity and compassion. Yet it is her remarkable courage under pressure that truly sets her apart.

On September 22, 2025, Victoria encountered a fellow employee experiencing a medical emergency. With calm, decisive action, she quickly assessed the situation, recognized the severity, and sought the appropriate help resulting in that employee surviving and recovering from a serious cardiac issue. Victoria’s actions played a critical role in saving that fellow employee’s life. Her composure in that moment reflects a rare instinct: the ability to remain focused and effective when every second matters.

Even more astonishing is that this was not an isolated event. On November 11, 2024, while simply taking her lunch break, Victoria noticed a coworker choking. Without hesitation, she relied on her training, performed the Heimlich maneuver, and successfully cleared the obstruction. Once again, her quick thinking and courage saved a life.

To save one life is extraordinary. To save two lives in less than a year is heroic. Victoria’s actions demonstrate not only skill, but heart and an unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of those around her.

For her bravery, her decades of service, and her profound impact on our hospital community, we are honored to recognize Victoria Maher as a true Healthcare Hero.

Jessica Mancarella, Trauma Program Manager

Lawrence + Memorial Hospital

L+M Hospital is proud to nominate Jessica Mancarella, RN, as a Healthcare Hero for her extraordinary dedication, leadership and impact on patient care.

Jessica has been the driving force behind L+M’s recent achievement of Level III Trauma Center designation—a milestone that required years of meticulous coordination, detailed planning and unwavering commitment.

A true behind the scenes champion, Jessica led the hospital through the rigorous process of meeting 111 criteria for verification, including inclusion of trauma bays in the hospital’s Emergency Department renovation project, ensuring rapid operating room readiness and expanding community injury prevention education. She guided this work while the Emergency Department renovation continued in parallel, demonstrating exceptional organization and persistence.

Jessica has long emphasized the lifesaving importance of bringing trauma services closer to home. She frequently notes that the odds of a patient’s death increase by 8% for every five miles between them and a trauma center, and the nearest center beyond L+M is 18 miles away. The impact of L+M’s enhanced trauma capability is clear: in 2025 alone, the hospital treated more than 870 trauma patients, each benefiting from the systems Jessica helped build.

Over the past four years, she expanded the Yale New Haven Health Trauma Survivors Network to L+M and created an extensive series of “Stop the Bleed” classes, empowering community members with skills to stop life threatening bleeding. Her colleagues describe her as tireless, humble and the true heartbeat of the Trauma Program—always quick to credit others but universally recognized as the program’s essential leader.

Jessica’s vision, drive and compassion have strengthened trauma care for the entire region. L+M Hospital would not have achieved Level III Trauma Center designation without her extraordinary leadership. She is a model clinician, a dedicated community advocate and unquestionably a Healthcare Hero.

Josephine Marcellino, Environmental Services Associate

Charlotte Hungerford Hospital

For nearly 11 years, Josephine Marcellino has been a steady, compassionate presence at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, where she serves as an Environmental Services Associate. Known throughout the hospital for her warmth, reliability and genuine care for others, Josephine has worked across nearly every unit during her tenure — including the Emergency Department and ICU, among others — earning the respect and affection of colleagues, patients and families alike.

In her role, Josephine ensures that patient rooms and clinical spaces are safe, clean, and well-supplied, responding quickly whenever a unit needs assistance. Whether delivering essential supplies, preparing a room, or supporting a colleague, she approaches every task with dedication and a deep sense of responsibility. But what truly sets Josephine apart is the human connection she brings to her work. She takes time to talk with patients, offer comfort and provide a friendly presence during moments that can feel overwhelming. Many patients remember her long after their stay, greeting her in the community as the person who made their hospital experience a little easier.

Before joining the hospital, Josephine spent many years working in restaurants, where her natural ability to connect with people flourished. That same gift now enriches the hospital environment. She describes herself as a “people person,” someone who believes in making a difference through kindness, conversation and simple acts of care.

Josephine remains deeply humble, insisting that the “real heroes” are those who save lives. Yet her colleagues know that healing is a team effort — and that Josephine’s presence, positivity and unwavering commitment make her an essential part of that team.

Nick Marziale, Director of Engineering

Hartford Hospital

For more than five decades, Nick Marziale has been an extraordinary force behind the seamless operations of Hartford Hospital facilities, dedicating his career to ensuring that everyone who enters our doors can depend on a safe, reliable and resilient environment.

Nick began his journey in 1974 at the Institute of Living when he was just 16 years old. From that very first day, he demonstrated a commitment far beyond what could be expected of someone his age. Over the years, he advanced through roles from medical records clerk to electrician, assistant foreman, electrical manager, and ultimately to director of engineering. He now leads a team that supports our 65-acre campus — a testament to his technical expertise, leadership, character and dedication to our mission.

Nick’s stewardship of the hospital’s infrastructure is remarkable. He has consistently anticipated challenges before they escalate, thinking several steps ahead to safeguard patient care. His innovative solutions, deep institutional knowledge and calm presence during critical moments have helped the hospital navigate everything from routine repairs to complex system stressors.

Most notably, during extreme heat this past summer — when HVAC systems were pushed to their limit — Nick worked tirelessly. Because of his vigilance, patient care proceeded safely even under the most taxing conditions. This is just one example among countless times he has ensured that the best care goes uninterrupted.

Nick’s 50-year tenure represents longevity, exceptional service and profound impact. His past employee evaluations underscore this, reading through the years: “the creativeness and dedication you demonstrated is an example to all Hartford Hospital employees of service excellence,” “high regard for your technical aptitude,” and “dedicated and quality-oriented work effort resulting in a well-maintained and safe plant.” Hartford Hospital is better, stronger and safer because of him.

Through a legacy of unwavering dedication, Nick elevates the care we provide every day.

Erin Miller, Manager, Radiology and Respiratory Departments

Johnson Memorial Hospital

Erin Miller, RT(R)(CT), has served as Manager of Radiology and Respiratory at Johnson Memorial Hospital for the past nine years. In this role, she keeps her focus on the delivery of high-quality care and service excellence for Johnson patients – a level of dedication she displays both at the hospital and at the S. Prestley and Helen Blake Ambulatory Care Center in Enfield where she oversees outpatient imaging services.

Over the past year, the imaging department has experienced a significant and sustained increase in volume, driven by higher inpatient acuity, expanded ambulatory demand, and tighter clinical turnaround expectations across the organization. This surge has placed substantial pressure on workflows, staffing, equipment uptime, and patient throughput.

Erin has been the steady force making that growth not only manageable, but successful. She has handled the rising volume with a combination of operational discipline, clinical expertise, and a calm, solutions oriented leadership style that has become foundational to the team’s performance. Additionally, Erin’s ability to seamlessly step in to cover for staff and provide direct patient care when needed speaks volumes about her commitment, versatility, and compassion.

Erin leads from the heart and colleagues appreciate her efforts. In August, Erin was selected as Johnson’s Colleague of the Month, a program that recognizes colleagues who exceed expectations, demonstrate excellence in job performance, and deliver exceptional service. As one colleague wrote in a nomination form, “Erin’s hands-on support not only strengthens her team, but also ensures patients receive the highest quality care.”

Stephanie Nelson, Clinical Director of Quality and Patient Safety

Saint Mary’s Hospital

Stephanie Nelson, MSN, RN, began her tenure at Saint Mary’s Hospital as an ICU nurse in 2008. After a decade at the bedside, she transitioned to a Performance Improvement role before becoming the Director of Safety, Quality and Performance Improvement at Saint Mary’s. Recognized for her leadership, in 2025, she was named the Clinical Director of Quality and Patient Safety for Community Hospitals, Trinity Health Of New England.

“Stephanie embodies our Mission,” said Shawna Edwards, DNP, MSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer at Saint Mary’s Hospital. “She approaches every decision through the lens of quality, guiding teams with grace, strength, and a talent for bringing people together around what truly matters.”

Stephanie defines her work with purpose, ensuring that every patient receives unwavering care. “To me, being a Clinical Quality and Patient Safety Director means championing the promise that every patient who enters our doors is met with uncompromising safety, dignity and compassion.”

Stephanie’s compassionate connection to people is woven into her daily practice. “My purpose is to turn challenges into opportunities, data into action, and teams into partners in creating the safest possible environment for those we serve.”

She champions system reliability, learning and support. “My mission is to protect patients by building a culture where safety is everyone’s responsibility and excellence is the standard. Every day, my teams and I work to ensure our colleagues have the support, tools, and clarity they need to deliver the safest, highest quality care.”

Through her vision, dedication and advocacy, Stephanie Nelson exemplifies what it means to be a Healthcare Hero.

Trucha Nguyen, Pharmacist, Pharmacy

Middlesex Health

A pediatric patient was seen at the outpatient surgery center for bilateral myringotomy with tubes and possible adenoidectomy (tube placement in ears and adenoid removal due to recurrent ear infections). The “Anesthesia PACU Standing Orders” order set was used to place orders for this toddler, instead of the correct “Anesthesia Pediatric PACU Standing Orders.”

Using the adult order set resulted in an order for sodium chloride 0.9% at 100 mL/hr to be ordered. If the pediatric order set had been used, then maintenance fluids would have been correctly ordered at 5 mL/kg/hr. In this 16.8 kg patient, the maintenance fluids rate should have only been 84 mL/hr.

Trucha, a pharmacist, immediately noticed that the pediatric order set was not used and contacted the provider. She stopped the line and ARCC’ed up her concern to pharmacy management and IT. As a result, pharmacy completed a fix within the Epic system so that providers will only see the order set that is age appropriate for their patient instead of having to select the correct order set.

Because of Trucha’s attention to detail, and practicing a questioning attitude, this patient did not receive inappropriate fluids. Future pediatric patients will no longer be ordered medications from the adult order set.

James Pallett, MD, Chief of Hospitalist Medicine

Greenwich Hospital

Dr. James Pallett is a true Healthcare Hero whose extraordinary leadership, clinical expertise, and unwavering dedication have profoundly elevated the quality of care at Greenwich Hospital. As Chief of Hospitalist Medicine, Dr. Pallett brings a rare and exceptional background, having trained in Surgery, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine at King’s College Hospital in London, earned an MPH from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and served with Doctors Without Borders in Haiti and the Central African Republic. Since joining our Hospitalist Team in 2017, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to patient-centered care and operational excellence—notably leading a Yale New Haven Health System initiative to ensure ventilator availability during the pandemic. Dr. Pallett has been instrumental in improving safe patient throughput, chairing the Clinical Optimization Committee, and achieving remarkable gains in length of stay, 11 a.m. discharge rates, readmission reduction, and mortality outcomes. His steady leadership of 24/7/365 Hospitalist scheduling, even during crisis moments, reflects his calm, reliable presence and deep support of his colleagues. Widely respected across the organization, he received the prestigious Partner in Care Award in 2023, underscoring his profound impact on our hospital community. Through his tireless work on the Medical Executive Committee, and as Chair of the Department of Medicine Quality Committee and Peer Review, Dr. Pallett has shaped safer, more effective care for every patient we serve. Greenwich Hospital is honored to recognize Dr. James Pallett, who exemplifies what it means to be a Healthcare Hero in every sense.

Dhanya Poulose, Director of Nursing

Manchester Memorial Hospital

Every day, Dhanya Poulose shapes the experience of patients and colleagues alike, leading Manchester Memorial Hospital’s inpatient nursing teams with empathy, skill and a dedication that sets the standard for excellence. Known for her calm presence and thoughtful leadership, Dhanya consistently demonstrates professionalism, compassion and collaboration across the organization.

In her current role as director of nursing for inpatient units, Dhanya quickly distinguished herself through exceptional leadership, guiding her teams with clarity, empathy and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. She oversees inpatient nursing teams and mentors four managers and two assistant nurse managers. Dhanya is deeply invested in developing future leaders, often creating educational materials and practical “how to” resources to help new leaders navigate complex operational and clinical challenges. By sharing these tools across departments, she strengthens leadership capabilities throughout the hospital.

Dhanya’s leadership has been especially valuable during times of significant organizational change, including the hospital’s bankruptcy proceedings and transition to Hartford HealthCare. During this period, she provided steady guidance and reassurance to staff, ensuring teams remained focused on delivering safe, high-quality patient care despite uncertainty.

Her dedication to improving the patient experience is evident in initiatives like the launch of the hospital’s Transition Lounge, a dedicated space for patients awaiting transportation after discharge. Through careful planning and collaboration, Dhanya helped ensure the program opened smoothly and provides patients with a safe and comfortable transition home.

Above all, Dhanya is known for her compassion. She frequently meets with patients and families to listen to concerns and ensure they feel heard and supported. Through her leadership, empathy, and commitment to excellence, Dhanya Poulose helps create an environment where patients receive exceptional care and colleagues feel supported to do their best work.

Manuel Rodriguez, Jr., EVS Team Leader, Main OR

Saint Francis Hospital

Manny is an important leader to both the Environmental Services (EVS) and Operating Room teams, consistently showing his commitment to patients, colleagues, and the Saint Francis Mission. He is known for going above and beyond, not only to his EVS team, but the whole OR. Manny has been described as the “true backbone” of the Main OR, performing his work with humble leadership, respect and awareness, ensuring safety to all. As a Team Leader, he has a strong relationship with his colleagues, building a family-like atmosphere. Manny truly encompasses the Mission and Core Values of Saint Francis in his work every day.

Marisol Rodriguez-Colon, Manager, Volunteer Services

Connecticut Children’s

Marisol is the heart behind one of Connecticut Children’s most impactful and enduring programs. Since she started with Connecticut Children’s 30 years ago, she has built and sustained a volunteer program that meaningfully supports patients, families, and team members every single day. In that time, she has overseen more than 5,500 volunteers—each one thoughtfully placed, trained, and supported to ensure they can make a real difference.

What sets Marisol apart is not just the scale of what she has built, but the intention behind it. She has created a program grounded in fairness, structure, and purpose. One that is trusted across the organization and deeply meaningful to those who participate. Her commitment to quality and integrity ensures that every volunteer experience is purposeful, and every interaction with a patient or family is impactful.

Her influence extends far beyond the walls of the hospital. Marisol has mentored countless volunteers, many of whom have gone on to careers in healthcare. Some have even returned to Connecticut Children’s as nurses, physicians, and team members—full circle moments that speak to her lasting impact.

Marisol’s passion is fueled by the people. She finds joy in the everyday stories volunteers share. For her it’s the small moments of comfort, kindness, and connection that define the patient experience. Those moments keep her connected to the mission and continue to inspire her work.

What many may not realize is the incredible amount of work behind the scenes. Every volunteer placement is intentional, requiring careful screening, onboarding, training, and ongoing support. Marisol ensures that each individual is set up to succeed and to truly make a difference.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary as a pediatric health system, we also celebrate Marisol. A founding team member and the magic that has helped create the moments that matter most. That is what makes her a true Healthcare Hero.

Meghan Salgado, Occupational Therapist

Stamford Health

Meghan is an exemplary Occupational Therapist whose clinical expertise, compassionate presence, and commitment to continuous professional growth make her an invaluable contributor across Stamford Health. Her practice is deeply rooted in person centered care, and she consistently ensures that every intervention reflects the unique needs, strengths, and goals of the individuals and families she serves. In the NICU, Meghan has elevated developmental and neuroprotective care through her strong clinical reasoning, dedication to evidence based practice, and collaborative approach. Her achievement of Neonatal Touch & Massage Certification reflects her commitment to quality and best practice, and it has meaningfully enhanced the sensory motor, bonding, and comfort focused support she provides to medically fragile infants and their families. She has led improvements in positioning techniques and introduced a new line of positioners that better support the hospital’s increasingly premature population. Her contributions to the intraventricular hemorrhage bundle pathway further demonstrate her drive to improve outcomes through thoughtful, research informed care. Families & NICU staff consistently express gratitude for her gentle, skilled bedside manner, often noting improvements in their infants’ comfort, physiologic stability, and feeding success when she is involved. Her ability to empower caregivers, meeting them with empathy, clarity, and respect, strengthens confidence and fosters meaningful participation in their child’s care. Beyond the NICU, Meghan has made significant contributions to the psychiatric population, applying patience, adaptability, and strong therapeutic rapport to support individuals navigating complex emotional and functional challenges. Across acute care, she is recognized for her collaborative communication and her ability to help patients progress toward their recovery goals. Meghan embodies the highest standards of her profession. She practices at the peak of her scope, seeks new knowledge with genuine enthusiasm, and consistently advances the quality of care within Rehabilitation Medicine. Her impact is profound, enduring, and deeply valued.

Brooke Sullivan, PA, Director of Advanced Practice

St. Vincent’s Medical Center

Brooke Sullivan, Physician Assistant and Director of Advanced Practice at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, is the kind of leader who makes people feel seen, heard and empowered.

While Sullivan’s achievements often speak for themselves, her leadership style is quietly impactful. She has been a pioneer and tireless advocate for Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) across Hartford HealthCare, working tirelessly to elevate their voice and visibility across the system. As a result, APPs are increasingly recognized as essential partners in patient care and system transformation.

Sullivan has personally led town halls, walked colleagues through updates, and made space for honest questions with transparency and compassion — helping APPs feel informed and supported.

Behind the scenes, Sullivan continues to drive progress. Through her work on system-level planning committees, she has supported the development of career ladders, new opportunities for growth for both new graduates and seasoned hires, and much more. She also makes it a priority to celebrate excellence — creating moments that recognize mentors, coaches and teams.

As a member of the System Clinical Affairs Leadership team, Brooke ensures APP perspectives are part of strategic conversations that shape care delivery across the organization. By partnering with system leaders, her commitment to reducing readmissions and advancing diagnostic excellence reflects her deep focus on quality and patient outcomes.

Brooke Sullivan leads with vision and heart — and her impact is felt across St. Vincent’s Medical Center, and beyond, every day.

Carley Warzecha, Manager, Workforce Development and Volunteer Services

Backus Hospital

Carley Warzecha, manager of Workforce Development and Volunteer Services at Backus Hospital, is laser focused on developing relationships with eastern Connecticut’s community organizations and schools, resulting in a robust pipeline of potential employees for the full range of job opportunities in healthcare.

This initiative includes working with community organizations such as United Way and Norwich Youth and Family Services, as well as local high schools and colleges. She has even connected with youth at career day events through local middle schools for sixth-graders learning about non-degree careers in healthcare.

In collaboration with the Human Resources team, she recently launched a high school internship program with students from Montville and Waterford high schools. Students are spending this term in finance, surgical services, the lab and oncology.

Carley has also helped revamp the Summer Junior Volunteer Bridge Program at Backus to help participants get a better idea of where their interests might lie. She has done this by developing a series of “rotations” during the first half of the summer, so the participants can see different areas of the hospital before they move on to job shadowing specific roles that they are interested in. This change has helped allow the participants to make better choices about where they want to be, enhance the quality of their experience and give them exposure to more opportunities.

Carley is also working with higher ed organizations to consider changes to their programs to ensure students are “hospital ready” upon graduation – and working with local technical high schools to provide guest speakers and job shadow opportunities for students in our organizations.

Carley works closely with the Eastern Connecticut Healthcare Regional Sector Partnership task force to ensure that a pipeline of talent will feed into the areas of need for healthcare organizations across eastern Connecticut.

Haley Wheeler, MA, CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), Rehabilitation Services

Northwell Health’s Sharon Hospital

At Sharon Hospital, Haley has elevated speech pathology from a traditional clinical service into a system-integrated, outcomes-driven program that strengthens care across sites and disciplines. She has spearheaded initiatives that standardize best practices, built a cross-market MS Teams network connecting more than 46 speech-language pathologists, and fostered collaboration that supports consistent, evidence-based care across Nuvance.

To strengthen this collaboration, Haley initiated regular knowledge-sharing discussions focused on emerging clinical topics and real-world patient challenges. By facilitating these conversations and providing curated research and discussion prompts, she has helped create an environment where clinicians can learn from one another and continuously elevate their practice. Feedback collected after the first year indicated improved connectedness among speech-language pathologists across the Nuvance market.

Her dedication to compassionate, patient-centered care is especially evident in her work with individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. She provides specialized therapy to support communication and swallowing function while recognizing the important role that social connection plays in managing chronic neurological conditions.

At Sharon Hospital, she leads a weekly SPEAK OUT! language group, which consistently attracts 8–10 adult participants with Parkinson’s disease to practice communication skills and support one another in a welcoming environment. She also organized a Parkinson’s community dinner, where she served as a speaker and provided education for patients, families, and community members about communication challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease. The event drew approximately 30 participants and strengthened connections between Sharon Hospital and the broader Parkinson’s community.

Through her leadership, Haley continues to cultivate a culture of learning, collaboration, and patient-centered care—demonstrating how clinical expertise, compassion, and innovation can work together to improve both patient outcomes and the professional community that supports them.

Eileen Woods, RN, MSN, Outcomes Coordinator, Quality Department

UConn Health Waterbury Hospital

This year, UConn Health Waterbury Hospital respectfully submits a nomination unlike any we have ever made before. Rather than recognizing a single extraordinary moment or individual accomplishment, we have chosen one remarkable employee to symbolically represent the collective courage, resilience, loyalty, and unwavering commitment of an entire organization that refused to give up during one of the most difficult chapters in our hospital’s 130-plus-year history.

Our nominee has dedicated over fifty years of service to this hospital and the greater Waterbury community. For over half a century, this individual has arrived each day with humility, compassion, professionalism, and an unshakable belief in the mission of community healthcare. Through generations of change, thousands of patients, and countless coworkers, they have remained a constant presence—steady, dependable, and deeply committed to serving others. But this nomination is about even more than longevity.

This individual represents every employee who stayed. They represent the nurse who climbed flights of stairs when elevators failed. The environmental services worker who kept patient rooms clean despite aging infrastructure. The maintenance teams who somehow kept old systems functioning long past their expected life span. The registration clerk who comforted anxious families while software systems struggled. The physician who continued caring for patients during uncertainty and instability. The dietary worker, transporter, therapist, technician, housekeeper, security officer, case manager, pharmacist, and unit secretary who came to work every day because their community depended on them.

Over the last several years, our organization endured extraordinary hardship. Staff worked through severe financial instability, prolonged uncertainty regarding the future of the hospital, aging facilities, unsupported technology platforms, staffing shortages, deferred maintenance, a cyberattack, and the emotional exhaustion that accompanies years of organizational instability. Yet despite these obstacles, our employees continued to care for patients with dignity, compassion, and professionalism. There were easier places to work. Yet they stayed. They stayed because they believed this community deserved access to quality healthcare close to home. They stayed because caring for others is not simply what they do—it is who they are.

And no one embodies that spirit more fully than this year’s nominee, Eileen Woods, RN, MSN. Eileen’s connection to UConn Health Waterbury Hospital began at just 15 years old while attending Holy Cross High School, when she joined the Candy Striper Volunteer Program. In 1979, while still a nursing student at Fairfield University, she began her career at the hospital as a trained aide. After graduating from nursing school, Eileen was hired as a registered nurse in the medical-surgical float pool and went on to build an exceptional career spanning decades. Throughout her tenure, she has served as an ICU nurse, nurse supervisor, and assistant director of the ICU and Telemetry units. She received a Master of Science in Nursing degree from University of Hartford while working as a nurse manager on the Telemetry unit. Eileen’s dedication to patient care and clinical excellence has earned her honors, including the prestigious Nightingale Award. Today, she continues to make a meaningful impact in her role as outcomes coordinator in the Quality Department, where she brings extensive nursing expertise and a steadfast commitment to quality care.

Today, our hospital stands in a new chapter as a proud member of the UConn Health Community Network. There is renewed hope, stability, investment, and opportunity ahead. But we recognize that we would never have reached this moment without employees like this individual—and the thousands of others they represent—who carried this organization forward one patient, one shift, and one difficult day at a time. This nomination is therefore both deeply personal and profoundly symbolic. While one name appears on this application, this recognition belongs to an entire workforce. It belongs to the people who demonstrated grit when circumstances were hard. Resilience when uncertainty was overwhelming. And tenacity when giving up would have been understandable.

This Healthcare Hero represents the very best of community healthcare—and the enduring spirit of the people of Waterbury. We are honored to nominate them on behalf of every employee who helped ensure that care never stopped.