WellLink Announces Finalists for Second Annual Compassion in Action Awards Honoring Healthcare Professionals

Some of the most meaningful contributions to healthcare happen quietly, through everyday acts of compassion, dedication and service that make a lasting difference in people’s lives. WellLink is proud to recognize 16 extraordinary individuals who embody that spirit as finalists for its second annual Compassion in Action Awards.

Nominated by their peers across five categories, the finalists represent a wide range of roles in healthcare and service, from direct care providers to those working behind the scenes. Each goes above and beyond the responsibilities of their role, making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families and communities.

“At the heart of healthcare are people who show up every day with compassion, courage, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others,” said WellLink President & CEO Brian Lane. “The individuals we honor this year embody the very best of who we are as a healthcare community. Through their dedication, their actions, and the way they serve others, they remind us that extraordinary impact doesn’t always happen in extraordinary moments — it happens every day, in countless ways, through people who care enough to make a difference. Their contributions reach far beyond their individual roles, touching lives, strengthening families, and building healthier, more resilient communities. At WellLink, we believe the people behind healthcare are its greatest strength, and we are proud to recognize and celebrate those who inspire us through their service, elevate the communities around them, and remind us of the profound difference one person can make.”

The Compassion in Action Awards recognize excellence in care, service and community impact across five categories: Guardian of Service, Heart of Healthcare, Inclusive Impact, Rising Star, and Legacy of Compassion.

Guardian of Service Award Finalists
This award honors those whose steady, purposeful presences uplift everyone around them. Their commitment runs deep, and you can feel it in the way they support their team, take responsibility, and keep things running behind the scenes. Honoring unwavering commitment to service and community, the following individuals are finalists for the Guardian of Service award:

• Rupesh Raina, adult-pediatric critical care nephrologist, Akron’s Children’s Hospital
• Ashley Stock, chief program officer, Providence House
• Stephanie Webb, chief clinical officer, Reserve Care

Heart of Healthcare Award Finalists
Reminding us that healthcare is rooted in humanity, this award embodies empathy and kindness and honors individuals leading with heart. Whether at a bedside, in a breakroom, or behind the scenes, they make people feel seen, heard and cared for. Celebrating those who embody empathy and kindness, these individuals are finalists for the Heart of Healthcare award:

• Tonya Wilson-Anderson, director of inpatient services, Reserve Care
• Khaldoon Shaheen, nephrologist, Ohio Kidney & Hypertension
• Bridget Gill, RN, and Michael Seidman, MD, The MetroHealth System (joint nomination)

Inclusive Impact Award Finalists
The Inclusive Impact Award nominees build bridges among co-workers, uplift underserved communities and lead through inclusion. They speak up for fairness, celebrate what makes us different, and help create an environment where all voices are welcomed. The following individuals have been selected as finalists for the award, honoring their ability to bring people together by celebrating what makes us each unique.

• La’Toya Huddleston, RN consultant, Project Hope for the Homeless
• Heidi Barham, manager of diversity, equity & inclusion, Reserve Care
• Angela Slarb, LPN, Comprehensive Internal Medicine

Rising Star Award Finalists
The Rising Star Award recognizes individuals early in their careers who are already making a meaningful impact. With fresh ideas, enthusiasm and a willingness to go the extra mile, these emerging professionals inspire those around them and demonstrate tremendous promise for the future. The following individuals are finalists for the Rising Star Award:

• Allison Gold, speech language pathologist, Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospitals
• Alexis Willoughby-Eck, community relations and fundraising manager, Reserve Care
• Christian Anderson (posthumous), administrator, RevLove Farm

Legacy of Compassion Award
Designed to recognize individuals later in their careers, this award honors those who uphold and contribute to the rich history of healthcare in Northeast Ohio. Legacy of Compassion honors those who preserve traditions, celebrate historical contributions, and ensure that the mission and values of healthcare endure for future generations. The following finalists exemplify a lasting commitment to healthcare and service in Northeast Ohio:

• Kristin Englund, president, Academy of Medicine Education Foundation
• Bob Phillips-Plona, director of facilities, Reserve Care
• Sister Miriam Erb (posthumous), St. Vincent Charity Medical Center

Launched in 2025 and envisioned as an annual tradition, the Compassion in Action Awards celebrate individuals whose extraordinary contributions reflect WellLink's commitment to strengthening the healthcare community. Winners will be announced during an awards ceremony on Oct. 29, where they will receive a keepsake award and a $500 cash prize.

WellLink is grateful for the generous sponsorship of McCarthy, Lebit, Crystal & Liffman Co., LPA, along with the support of Vertex, HealthComp Foundation, and Huntington National Bank in making this year’s Compassion in Action Awards possible.

Learn more about WellLink by visiting welllinkcommunity.com.