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Introducing the 2025 Awards of Excellence Winners:
Administrator
Lee Halloran
Lee’s nomination reflects a genuine partnership with the community. Her leadership extends beyond administration — she personally participates in end-of-life events and collaborates across organizations to bring dignity and compassion to families. The nominator highlights Lee’s consistent presence and advocacy, showing that she leads by example and uplifts the broader mission of end-of-life care.
Advanced Practice Clinician (NP/PA/Pharmacist/CNS)
Bethany Melo
Bethany’s nomination emphasizes her tireless work in expanding palliative care awareness and accessibility. She’s described as both a clinical expert and an advocate — someone who educates peers, supports families, and bridges gaps in understanding around end-of-life choices. Her efforts go beyond patient encounters to build a more compassionate, informed community.
Counseling Professional (Chaplain, Social Worker, Counselor)
Suzie Goodenough
Suzie’s essay-style nomination portrays a counselor deeply devoted to spiritual and emotional care. She’s recognized for creating sacred spaces for patients and families, guiding them through grief and uncertainty with grace. Her nomination conveys the profound emotional and spiritual impact she has in helping people find peace at life’s end.
Nursing Assistant (CNA/HHA)
LaTasha Nichols
LaTasha’s story stands out for her extraordinary compassion and consistency. The nominator describes her as the kind of caregiver who treats every patient like family — anticipating needs, offering comfort, and bringing peace in difficult moments. Her kindness is not an act, but a daily rhythm that defines excellence in hospice care.
Physician (MD/DO)
Raja Malhi
Dr. Malhi is portrayed as both skilled and deeply human. His nominator calls him “one of the most trusted and compassionate physicians” they know — someone who balances medical precision with heartfelt empathy. He takes time with families, listens with care, and ensures every patient’s journey is marked by dignity and comfort.
Registered Nurse (RN/LPN)
Colleen Fillman
Colleen’s nomination paints the picture of a nurse who never stops giving. She juggles multiple facilities while maintaining genuine relationships with patients and families. Her work embodies what it means to serve with excellence — dependable, skilled, and overflowing with compassion for those nearing life’s end.
Unsung Hero
Jessica Smith
Jessica’s nomination highlights her quiet strength as a community advocate. She supports families navigating the most difficult times, ensuring that no one faces the end-of-life journey alone. Her behind-the-scenes advocacy and empathy make her the perfect example of an “unsung hero” — someone whose impact is felt deeply, even if not always seen.
We would also like to thank our generous sponsors who every year make this event possible.
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