WellLink Launches Compassion in Action to Honor Northeast Ohio’s Heroes of Health and Well-Being

WellLink announces the launch of Compassion in Action, a new, annual signature recognition program celebrating the outstanding contributions of healthcare professionals across Northeast Ohio. The inaugural awards ceremony will be held on October 30, 2025, and will honor individuals who exemplify excellence in care, service, and impact.

The Compassion in Action Awards reflect WellLink’s mission to promote health and well-being through collaboration, advocacy, and education. These awards recognize healthcare workers – from administrators and clinicians to those working behind the scenes in virtually any capacity – who exemplify these values in action, whether through compassionate care delivery, inclusive leadership, or steadfast community service.

Honoring the very spirit and purpose of WellLink, this program celebrates individual excellence and strengthens our connection to the broader healthcare community while highlighting the collective impact of those working every day to improve health across Northeast Ohio. While conversations around healthcare often focus on policy, payment, and access, the voices and stories of those making a true difference in patients’ lives, delivering care, building trust, and leading with compassion throughout our community, deserve to be heard and celebrated.

“There are many individuals who are superheroes in their own way, both on the front lines and behind the scenes, who dedicate themselves every day to making a real difference for patients and communities,” said WellLink President & CEO Brian Lane. “They deserve our gratitude and recognition for their commitment, compassion, and impact. It is our privilege to help shine a light on their work and honor them through these awards.”

The Compassion in Action Awards will spotlight individuals across a wide range of healthcare positions in four categories:

• Guardian of Service Award – For steadfast dedication to service and community.
• Heart of Healthcare Award – For exemplifying empathy, kindness, and compassion.
• Inclusive Impact Award – For advancing equity, inclusion, and belonging in healthcare.
• Rising Star Award – For early-career professionals who show exceptional promise and impact.

Each honoree will embody the values that align with WellLink’s purpose: to promote health and well-being through collaboration, advocacy, and education.

Nominations are now open to the community through August 22. Individuals, patients and their families, coworkers, and leaders are encouraged to nominate those who inspire them every day through their actions and commitment to care. Those selected for recognition will be notified by Sept. 26 and will be invited to receive their award at a dinner in their honor on Oct. 30.

For more information, to nominate someone, or to become a sponsor of the Compassion in Action Awards, please visit the nominations page.