Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) recognized long-serving employees, physicians and volunteers, as well as recipients of its annual Alliance Awards of Excellence, during a ceremony held June 10 at the Links of Kent Golf Club and Event Centre.
The annual Service Recognition ceremony honoured employees marking milestone years of service and paid tribute to retirees from across the organization.
Among those recognized were Cheryl Jarecsni and Sandra VanHyfte for 45 years of service. CKHA also honoured six employees for 40 years of service, nine employees for 35 years of service and 10 employees for 30 years of service.
Additional service awards were presented to 96 employees marking five years of service, 62 marking 10 years, 39 marking 15 years, 33 marking 20 years and 38 marking 25 years. The organization also recognized 21 retirees.
“Every day, the staff, physicians and volunteers of CKHA demonstrate the organization’s purpose: Our Focus is YOU. This annual celebration gives us an opportunity to honor their hard work and unwavering pursuit of health care excellence,” said Adam Topp, president and chief executive officer of CKHA. “We are grateful for their continuous commitment to delivering exceptional care rooted in equity and kindness.”
The ceremony also included the presentation of the Alliance Awards of Excellence, which are now in their 21st year.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am honored to congratulate this year’s nominees and recipients of the Alliance Awards of Excellence,” said Deb Crawford, board chair of CKHA. “These awards reflect the outstanding dedication and excellence of CKHA’s team, as well as their unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality care.”
Britany Gawley-Atkinson, a mental health and addiction therapist, received the Alan Stevenson Memorial Award. CKHA said she is known for her advocacy in mental health and addictions care, her trauma-informed approach and her leadership within the Mobile Addictions Response Team.
The Allied Health Professional of the Year Award was presented to occupational therapist Allison Vitek. CKHA said Vitek is recognized for her commitment to evidence-based care, resilience and ability to meet patient needs despite complex challenges and system constraints.
Administrative assistant Lisa Stonehouse received the Focus Award. The organization described her as a key source of support and information for staff, physicians and instructors, noting her efforts to remove barriers and help colleagues navigate complex processes.
Kathie Vandehogen, a dialysis continuity nurse, was named Nurse of the Year. CKHA said she is a valued team leader and advocate for patients facing long-term illness, while also supporting colleagues and quality improvement initiatives.
The Physician of the Year Award was presented to Dr. Stephanie Jarrin. CKHA said Jarrin is recognized for her leadership, responsiveness during emergencies and commitment to ensuring high-quality patient care.
Sarah Weston, a registered technologist who joined the laboratory team as a new graduate in 2024, received the Rookie of the Year Award. CKHA said her dedication to supporting both the Chatham and Wallaceburg sites and her pursuit of additional training have helped strengthen diagnostic services.
Registered nurse Julia Chase was honoured with the Stroke Care Award. According to CKHA, Chase is recognized for her compassionate approach to patient care, advocacy for stroke survivors and families, and commitment to improving stroke services through collaboration and mentorship.
Volunteer of the Year honours went to Sheila Satchell, a retired nurse and member of CKHA’s Patient Experience Advisor program since 2018. CKHA said Satchell has contributed more than 680 hours of service over the past eight years, providing feedback on projects and helping improve patient experiences across the organization.
