07/22/2026
Congratulations to our 2026 MHCA District Award recipients!
These outstanding long-term care professionals have been recognized by their peers for their dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence. District winners will be honored during the Opening General Session & Awards Ceremony at the MHCA 78th Annual Convention & Trade Show on Monday, Aug. 24, where the statewide winners in each category will also be announced.
๐ CNA of the Year
District 1: Maria Schoepke, Missouri Veterans Home - Warrensburg
District 2: Makelah Simpson, Pearl's II Eden for Elders
District 3: William "Nikko" Haley, Garden View Care Center
District 4: Caleb Washington, The Communities of Wildwood Ranch
District 5: Jennifer Pashia, The Gardens Health and Rehab
District 6: Aaron Aunko, Lewis County Nursing Home
District 7: Donna Paul, Richland Care Center
๐ Nurse of the Year
District 1: Kayley Wright, Ignite Medical Resort St. Mary's
District 2: Amanda Martin, Eastview Manor Care Center
District 3: Justin Newsome, Missouri Veterans Home - St. Louis
District 4: Freddie Thompson, Shady Oaks Healthcare Center
District 5: Brittany Johnson, Prairie View Skilled Nursing
District 6: Heather Fleming, Loch Haven Senior Living Community
District 7: Tina Hlavaty, Missouri Veterans Home - St. James
๐ Employee of the Year
District 1: Katie Taylor, Ignite Medical Resort St. Mary's
District 2: Heather Knapp, Tiffany Heights Nursing & Rehab
District 3: Terry Miner, Bel-Oak of Union Community Care Center
District 4: John Goddard, Ash Grove Healthcare Facility
District 5: Barbara Tippen, Aspire Senior Living Poplar Bluff
District 6: Becki Capps, Elsberry Health Care Center
District 7: Joshua Cloepfil, StoneBridge Villa Marie
๐ David Duncan Administrator of the Year
District 1: Ashlee Siard, Avalon View Health and Wellness
District 2: Ryan Phillips, Eastview Manor Care Center
District 3: Julie Brinley, Bel-Oak of Union Community Care Center
District 4: Tina Caudill, Hickory Manor
District 5: Joetta Martin, Westwood Hills Health & Rehab Center
District 6: Brittany Vanlandingham, Monroe City Manor Care Center
District 7: Josh Cross, Riverview Nursing Center
Congratulations to each of our district winners!