Andrew Baldwin, MD
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Hawai`i Pacific Health Medical Group
CLICK HERE TO VIEW DR. BALDWIN’S HAWAI`I NEWS NOW VIDEO
Lindsey Hayes, PA-C
Same-Day Care
Physician Assistant
Kaiser Permanente
CLICK HERE TO VIEW LINDSEY’S HAWAI`I NEWS NOW VIDEO
Shelley Johnstone, MSN, APRN
Nurse Practitioner
Kaiser Permanente
CLICK HERE TO VIEW SHELLEY’S HAWAI`I NEWS NOW VIDEO
Lillian Lau, RN
RN Case Manager
Oahu Home Healthcare
CLICK HERE TO VIEW LILLIAN’S HAWAI`I NEWS NOW VIDEO
Bernard Riola, MD
Department Chair of Pediatrics
Hawai`i Health Systems Corporation - Kaua`i Region
CLICK HERE TO VIEW DR. RIOLA’S HAWAI`I NEWS NOW VIDEO
2022 Peer Awardees
Advocacy
Richard Kishaba
Founder/Owner
Ohana Pacific Health
Distinguished Service
Amanda Pou
Administrative Assistant, Quality and Patient Safety
The Queen’s Health System
Emergency Manager
Greg Payne, MBA, BSN
Emergency Department Director
The Queen’s Medical Center - Punchbowl/Manamana
Executive
Nancy Atmospera-Walch, DNP, MPH, BS, RN
President/CEO & CNO
Advantage Health Care Provider, Inc.
Leadership
Arnold Policarpio, PT, MHA
Director, Medicare Certified Services
CareResource Hawai`i
Physician of the Year
Malia Ramirez, MD
Chief, Hospital Medicine
Queen’s University Medical Group
Professional with Heart
Eric Palacol, TCRN
Charge Nurse, Emergency Department
The Queen’s Medical Center - Punchbowl/Manamana
Public Health
Elizabeth “Libby” Char, MD
Director
Hawai`i State Department of Health
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Jessica Robins, PTA
Physical Therapy Assistant
CareResource Hawai`i
State Legislator of the Year
Linda Ichiyama
State of Hawai`i Representative
Federal Legislator of the Year
Brian Schatz
U.S. Senator
President’s Award
Senator Rosalyn Baker
2022 Healthcare Scholarship Recipients
Baccalaureate Degree
Lee Tsutsumi
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Baccalaureate Degree
Simran Singh
Shriners Children’s Hawai`i
Baccalaureate Degree
Sydney Dolor
Kaiser Permanente
Masters Degree
Jennifer Herrington
Shriners Children’s Hawai`i
Masters Degree
Sarah Sumida
The Queen’s Medical Center - Punchbowl/Manamana
Doctorate Degree
Theresa Dao-Nakamatsu
Adventist Health Castle
Mahalo to our Sponsors!
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsors
Diamond Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Media Sponsors
Ruby Sponsors
Emerald Sponsors
Pearl Sponsors
2021 Hawaii Healthcare Heroes
Ligaya “Joy” Villanueva Bercasio, BSN-RN
Nurse Liaison
St. Francis Healthcare System
Click here to view Ligaya’s Hawaii News Now Video
Mandy Ki`aha, BS, RN, MSN, NP-C
Senior Advocate
CareSift for Seniors
Click here to view Mandy’s Hawaii News Now Video
Rachel Laffin, CNA
Certified Nursing Assistant
Palolo Chinese Home
Click here to view Rachel’s Hawaii News Now Video
Luisa Ogawa, MSN, APRN-Rx, NP-C, RN-BC
Continuing Care Nurse Practitioner
Kaiser Permanente
Click here to view Luisa’s Hawaii News Now Video
Se Kon Won, MD
Cardiologist
Hawai`i Pacific Health Medical Group
Straub Medical Center
Click here to view Dr. Won’s Hawaii News Now Video
2021 Peer Award Winners
Advocacy
Wesley Lo
Ohana Pacific Health
Distinguished Service
Charmaine Anderson
CareResource Hawaii
Emergency Manager
Elizabeth “Liz” Makarra
Waikiki Health
Executive
Melinda Ashton, MD
Hawai`i Pacific Health
Leadership
Chrissy Miller, RN
Maui Health
Physician of the Year
Rayji Tsutsui, MD
Hawai`i Pacific Health Medical Group
Straub Medical Center
Public Health
Christopher “CJ” Johnson
Hawaii State Department of Health
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Debra Borsche
CareResource Hawaii
Representative of the Year
Ryan Yamane
Senator of the Year
Jarrett Keohokalole
2021 Healthcare Scholarship Recipients
Associate Degree
Briana Ortiz
Pali Momi Medical Center
Baccalaureate Degree
Eric Batalon
Palolo Chinese Home
Baccalaureate Degree
Yizheng Logan
Kona Community Hospital
Masters Degree
Steven Migdol
Straub Medical Center
Doctorate Degree
Kylie Kwak
Straub Medical Center
2021 Hawaii Healthcare Heroes Sponsors
2020 and 2021 continues to be challenging years due to COVID-19. We are so grateful for all of the healthcare staff that are passionate and dedicated to caring for the people of Hawaii during these unprecedented times.
We are pleased to announce this year’s Hawaii Healthcare Heroes Sponsors.
Top Platinum Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Sponsor Recognition and Media
Hawai`i Pacific Health Radio Spot
Adventist Health Castle
Bayada Home Health Care Radio Spot
CareResource Hawaii Radio Spot
Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Radio Spot
Maui Health Radio Spot
`Ohana Health Plan Radio Spot
`Ohana Pacific Health Radio Spot
The Queen’s Health Systems Radio Spot
Click here to download the full Honolulu Star Advertiser Hawaii Healthcare Heroes Tab
2020 Awards & Scholarship
Each year Healthcare Association of Hawaii recognizes top-performing staff from Hawaii’s hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, home care companies and hospices.
HAH has decided to not hold this year’s Awards & Scholarship Gala and the Hawaii Healthcare Heroes celebration on Oct. 24. Instead, we are devoting HAH staff time and resources to support Hawaii’s hospitals, post-acute care facilities, home health agencies and hospices as they fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
We will continue to invest in Hawaii’s healthcare workforce with the Hawaii Hospital Education and Research Foundation (HHERF) healthcare scholarships. Employees of HAH member organizations and their immediate family members are eligible to apply for healthcare scholarships of $500 to $2,000 to cover professional certification and healthcare-related education from the community college up to doctoral degree levels.
Scholarship Winners
Masters Degree
Kodi Bonner
Hawaii Pacific Health
Sherrie Migdol
Straub Medical Center
Doctorate Degree
Ashlyn Kawasaki
Prime Care Services Hawaii
Chelsea Yin
Straub Medical Center
Continuing Education
Kristin Mathews
Straub Medical Center
Tina Laupola
The Queen’s Health Systems
Community College
Brianna Ellis
Wilcox Medical Center
Jamie Yadao
Wilcox Medical Center
Baccalaureate Degree
Bridgette Yang
Hospice Maui
Traci Aiwohi
Kapi`olani Medical Center for Women & Children
2019 Awards & Scholarship Gala
Each year Healthcare Association of Hawaii recognizes top-performing staff from Hawaii’s hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, home care companies and hospices.
HAH honored the caregivers, physicians, leaders and behind-the-scenes heroes who profoundly impact people’s lives every day.
The 2019 HAH Awards and Scholarship Gala “Royal Red Ball” was held on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at the Ko`olau Ballrooms at 5:00 pm.
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Brandy Boyce, RN
Kapi`olani Medical Center for Women & Children
Lyne Elsman
The Queen’s Medical Center
Jocelyn Nishioka
The Queen’s Medical Center
Walter Igawa-Silva, MD
Straub Medical Center
Veterans Affairs Pacific Islands Health Care System
Mervin (Merv) Lum, RPh
Foodland Pharmacy – Kapolei
Agusta (Angie) Yoro
Kalākaua Gardens
Peer-Nominated Winners
Advocacy
Kurt Akamine, NHA, PNG
Garden Isle Rehabilitation and Healthcare
Advocacy
Brenda Ho, MS, RN
Hawaii Care Choices formerly Hospice of Hilo
Distinguished Service
Fawn Gould
Pali Momi Medical Center
Executive
Arthur Ushijima
The Queen’s Health Systems
Leadership
Laura Bonilla, FACHE, MA, BSN
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children
Physician of the Year
Elliot Kalauawa, MD
Waikiki Health
Professional with Heart
Mohammad Khalil, RN
Pali Momi Medical Center
Public Health
Joy Barua, MBA, MA-OC
Kaiser Permanente
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Ruth Chow
CareResource Hawaii
Emergency Manager
Striker Thomas
Shriners Hospitals for Children-Honolulu
Achievement in Advocacy
Representative Sylvia Luke
Legislator of the Year
Representative Joy San Buenaventura
Legislator of the Year
Senator Russell Ruderman
Scholarship Winners
Associates Program
Lauren Huynh
Diagnostic Laboratory Services
Steven Offenbaker
North Hawai`i Community Hospital
Baccalaureate Program
Angie Wong Barrios
Adventist Health Castle
Marty Collins
Wilcox Medical Center
Rhoelyn Cortez
The Queen’s Medical Center
Jessica Hermano
Kapi`olani Medical Center for Women & Children
Reichel Yamashiro
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Masters Program
Jayce Arakaki
Hawai`i Pacific Health
Jennifer Kurian
The Queen’s Medical Center
Bethany Lukens
The Queen’s Medical Center
Arlyn Mae Ramos
Rich Meiers Healthcare Administration Scholarship
Doctorate Program
Mary Guo
Palolo Chinese Home
Mirie Hara
The Queen’s Medical Center
Arielle Marie Magpoc
Shriners Hospitals for Children-Honolulu
Michael Schweikert II
The Queen’s Medical Center
Mahalo to our Silent Auction and Wine Cellar Donors
Aiko Holmberg
Anna Arita
Bess Hayashi
Beth Hoban
Bottega Antoine/Ces
Brandi Schuyler
Cathi Ben-Yossef
Claire Imaye
Clyde and Brenda Ho
Colleen Garrett
Corinne Suzuka
CW Associates, CPAs
Daniel Kelly
DK Restaurants
Duwayne & Neon Akui
D’Vine Kailua Wine Bar
Emilie Smith
First Hawaiian Bank
Gail Coleman
Gina Gibo
Goofications
HADONA/Margaret Salvador
Hale Ku’ike
Hilton & Kathy Raethel
Jamie Velasco
Jordynn Velasco
Kahala Nui
Kapi`olani Medical Center for Women & Children
Ko`olau Ballrooms
Koloa Rum Company
Lori Henning
Mark Yamakawa
Michelle Iha Yu
mPower Hawaii
Nalani Akui
Oeno Winemaking
One Kalakaua Senior Living
Paige Heckathorn-Choy
Patrick Harrison
Pomai Velasco
Prime Care Services Hawaii, Inc.
Purve Donuts
SH Consulting LLC
Sharie Higashionna-Ibarra
Sheraton Waikiki
Stacy Wong
The Kobayashi Hoshino Group
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
SILVER SPONSORS
RUBY SPONSORS
EMERALD SPONSORS
PEARL SPONSORS
SPONSORS
2018 Awards & Scholarship Gala
Thank you for celebrating with us our 2018 Awardees on Saturday, October 20, 5:00 pm at the Ko’olau Ballrooms in Kaneohe.
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Christie Izutsu, MD
Kidney Clinic of Hawaii
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Valerie Janikowski, RN
Formerly with Ke ‘Ola Hou `O Lanai
Currently with Arcadia Home Health Lanai
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Dee Ono, RN, CWS, CRNI
West Hawaii Home Health Services (Hawaii Island)
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Rebecca Sawai, MD
Kaiser Permanente Hawaii
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Lesley Yoshimori, RN, MPH
Family Medicine Clinic at Tripler Army Medical Center
Peer-Nominated Winners
Advocacy
Laura Reichhardt, MS, APRN, AGNP-C
Hawaii Center for Nursing
Distinguished Service
Divina Padasdao
Hawaii Care Choices
Emergency Manager
Richard Kirchner
Adventist Health Castle
Executive
Richard Okazaki
Diagnostic Laboratory Services, Inc.
Leadership
Jill Omori, MD
University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine
Physician of the Year
Daniel Cheng, MD
The Queen’s Medical Center
Professional with Heart
Sye Chee
Hale Kupuna Heritage Home
Public Health
Christina Wang, DNP, MPH, APRN-Rx, AGPCNP-C
Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Julie Tsuji-Alhadeff, HHA
Adventist Health Castle Home Care
Achievement in Advocacy
The Honorable John Mizuno
Legislator of the Year
The Honorable Aaron Ling Johanson
Legislator of the Year
The Honorable Scott Nishimoto
Legislator of the Year
The Honorable Brian Taniguchi
Scholarship Winners
Community College
Chelsea Cross
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
Baccalaureate
Jasmine Sagaysay
Kahala Nui
Justin Abe
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
Kari Kimura
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
Leighthan Luna
The Queen’s Medical Center
Masters
Annemarie Wendicke
Hawaii Pacific Health
Jessica Niles
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
Doctorate
Rose Hata
The Queen’s Medical Center
Mahalo to our Silent Auction and Wine Cellar Donors
Adventist Health Castle
Aiko Holmberg
Andrew Garrett, MPA
Anna Arita
Art Gladstone
Beth Hoban
Bottega Antoine
Brandi Schuyler
Calinda Goo
CareResource Hawaii
Cesgina
Christina Rudolph
Colleen Garrett
Corinne Suzuka, RN, BSN, MA
CW Associates, CPAs
Daniel Horne
David Fitzgerald
Debbie Hiraoka
Dee Robinson
Emilie Smith
Farrington High School
First Hawaiian Bank
Gail Coleman
Gary Slovin, Esq.
Gina Gibo
Glenda Lau
HADONA
Hale Ho Aloha
Hale Ku’ike
Hale Ku’ike Bayside LLC
Healthcare Association of Hawaii
Hilton and Kathryn Raethel
Jamie Velasco
Jason del Mundo
John Radcliffe
Kahala Nui
Kathleen Libao-Laygo, RN
Kevin Hoshino
Ko`olau Ballrooms
La Tour Café
Lori Henning
Margaret Salvador
Mark Yamakawa
Merrill Lynch
Michelle Iha-Yu
Ohana Pacific Management Co.
One Kalakaua Senior Living
Paige Heckathorn Choy
Paul Young, MBA
Prince Waikiki Hotel
Richard Kishaba
SanHi Government Strategies
Sea Glass Fine Art Photography
Sean Baz
SH Consulting LLC
Sharie Higashionna-Ibarra
Shining Soul Jewelry
Stacy Wong
Terri Fujii
The Bead Gallery
Thomas Fallon
United Laundry Service
Vanessa Knapp
Vicky Cayetano
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
DIAMOND SPONSOR
SAPPHIRE SPONSOR
SILVER MEDAL SPONSORS
RUBY SPONSORS
EMERALD SPONSORS
PEARL SPONSORS
SPONSORS
2017 Awards & Scholarship Gala
Thank you for celebrating our 2017 Awardees with us.
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Jessica Ackerman, APRN-RX, FNP-BC
Queen’s Geriatric Services
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Anne Dempsey, MD
Kauai Medical Clinic/Hawaii Pacific Health
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Gary Oshita
Maluhia
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Cheri-Teranishi-Hashimoto, DPT, MS, WCS, CLT-LANA, MSPT
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Hawaii Healthcare Hero
Baron CKW Wong, MD
Wahiawa General Hospital
Peer-Nominated Winners
Advocacy Award
Paula Yoshioka, MBA
The Queen’s Health Systems
Distinguished Service Award Angel Juan, CCLS, CPSTI
Kaiser Permanente
Emergency Manager of the Year Award
Catherine Nutting, RN, BSN, CHEP, CNML
Hilo Medical Center
Executive Award
Mary Boland, DrPH, RN, FAAN
UH School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene
Leadership Award
Sanoe Ka`uhane, MHA
Kona Community Hospital
Physician of the Year Award
Melinda Ashton, MD
Hawaii Pacific Health
Professional with Heart Award
Elvira De Jesus, RN
Pali Momi Medical Center
Public Health Award
Zeshan Chisty, MPH
Hawaii State Department of Health
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver Award
Vivian Villamor, COTA
CareResource Hawaii
Federal Legislator of the Year
The Honorable Mazie Hirono
Achievement in Advocacy
The Honorable Jill Tokuda
State Senator of the Year
The Honorable Rosalyn Baker
State Representative of the Year
The Honorable Della Au Belatti
Scholarship Winners
Continuing Education
Jennifer Glorioso
Kauai Hospice
Community College
Ashley Fujie-Fukuki
North Hawaii Community Hospital
Baccalaureate
Jaimee Sambrano
Kaiser Permanente Moanalua
Raquel Fernando
Kaiser Permanente Moanalua
Shania Weiss
Adventist Health Castle
Lisa LaBang
Adventist Health Castle
Grayson Bueno
Kaiser Permanente
Masters
Colby Takeda
The Plaza at Waikiki
Annie Meredith-Mitchell
Kauai Hospice
Brandi-lee Gonzales
Kaiser Permanente
Rozanne Schirmer
The Queen’s Medical Center West Oahu
Tyler Cheney
Shriners Hospitals for Children
Doctorate
Faith Hamamura
The Queen’s Medical Center and
Hale Malamalama
Katelyn Wakuzawa
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Jana Wieland
Adventist Health Castle and
Kapiolani Medical Center
Rich Meiers Health Care Administration Scholarship Winner
Crystel Joy Lagan
Mahalo to our Silent Auction and Wine Wall Donors
Adventist Health Castle
Aloha Nursing & Rehab Centre
Anna Arita
Bess Hayashi
Bottega Antoine
Bristol Hospice Hawaii LLC
CareResource Hawaii
Chris Crabtree
CW Associates, CPAs
Emilie Smith
First Hawaiian Bank
Gary Slovin
Goofications
HADONA
Hale Ku’ike Bayside LLC
Hawaii Bowl
Hilton & Kathy Raethel
Jamie Velasco
Kahuku Medical Center
Ko’olau Golf Club
Mark Yamakawa
Merrill Lynch
mPower Hawaii
One Kalakaua Senior Living
Paul Young
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
SH Consulting LLC
Sharon Ibarra
Shining Soul Jewelry
Stephanie Marshall
Tanioka’s Charity Foundation
The Plaza Assisted Living
Aiko Holmberg
Andrew Garrett
Bayada Home Health Care
Beth Hoban
Brandi Schuyler
Bromeliads Hawaii
Cheyenne Handa
Consolidated Theatres
Edwina Suzuki
Farrington Health Academy
Gail Coleman
Gina Gibo
Grand Wailea Resort
Hale Ku’ike
Hale Ola Kino
Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic
India Hicks
John Radcliffe
Kathleen Libao-Laygo
Lori Henning
Mauna Lani Hotel and Bungalows
Moelehua Massage Therapy
Ohana Pacific Management
Paige Heckathorn
Pictures Plus
Sea Glass Fine Art Photography
Sharie Higashionna-Ibarra
Sheraton Waikiki Resort
Stacy Wong
Sutter Health Pacific Kahi Mohala
The Bead Gallery
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
GOLD MEDAL SPONSOR
SILVER MEDAL SPONSORS
SAPPHIRE & EMERALD SPONSOR
RUBY SPONSORS
EMERALD SPONSOR
PEARL SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
2016 Awards & Scholarship Gala
Thank you for celebrating our 2016 Awardees with us.
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Pixie Bickel, RT (R)(M)(CT)(ARRT)
Mammography Technologist
The Queen’s Medical Center
Thomas J. Kane III, MD
Founder and Director
Kane Orthopedic Institute
Catherine Marquette, FNP
Family Nurse Practitioner
Hamakua-Kohala Health Center
Ian J. Okazaki, MD
Department Chief, Hematology/Oncology
Straub Medical Center
Phung Le Ouchi, LPN
Staff Nurse
Hi`olani Care Center at Kahala Nui
Peer-Nominated Winners
Phyllis J. Baumwell Dendle
Kaiser Permanente Hawaii
Achievement in Advocacy Award
Marie Coleman
Wahiawa General Hospital Long Term Care
Distinguished Service Award
Barry King
The Queen’s Medical Center
Emergency Manager Award
June Drumeller
Kuakini Medical Center
Executive Award
COL (Ret.) Stephanie Marshall, MSN, RN, FAAN
UH at Manoa School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene
Leadership Award
Robert Schulz, MD
Straub Medical Center
Physician of the Year Award
Helene Freni-Rogers, MAEd, CTRS
Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu
Professional with Heart Award
Thaddeus Pham
Hawaii State Department of Health
Public Health Award
Anna Casey, CNA
Castle Personal Care
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver Award
The Honorable Ronald Kouchi
State Senator of the Year Award
The Honorable Dee Morikawa
State Representative of the Year Award
The Honorable Suzanne Chun Oakland
President’s Award
Scholarship Winners
Community College
Meilika Tano
Hi`olani Care Center at Kahala Nui
William Balbin
Bayada Home Health Care, Regency at Puakea – Kaua`i
Baccalaureate
Holly Anami
Castle Medical Center
Maria Talana
Aloha Nursing & Rehab Centre; The Queen’s Medical Center
Ashley Bell
Castle Medical Center; Straub Medical Center
Stephanie Lum
The Queen’s Medical Center
Geraldine Eli
Wahiawa General Hospital
Masters
Raisa Domingo
UH JABSOM, UH Speech and Hearing Clinic
Ruby Yang
Straub Medical Center
Eric Lee
The Queen’s Medical Center
Samantha Duhaylonsod
The Queen’s Medical Center
Ryan Artero
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Doctorate
Jason Spiker
Kuakini Medical Center
Krystina Begonia
Kaiser Permanente – Moanalua Medical Center
Tiffany Bihis
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Rich Meiers Health Care Administration Scholarship
Crystel Joy Lagan
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
GOLD MEDAL SPONSOR
SILVER MEDAL SPONSORS
HERO SPONSOR
DIAMOND SPONSOR
SAPPHIRE & EMERALD SPONSOR
RUBY SPONSORS
EMERALD SPONSORS
PEARL SPONSORS
PRINTING SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
2015 Awards & Scholarship Gala
The Healthcare Association of Hawaii (HAH) is pleased to present its annual awards for excellence in healthcare throughout the state. Congratulations to the awardees, who are transforming healthcare in the state, inspiring their peers and changing the lives of their patients.
Invitation
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Kathy Krammer, MS, CCC-SLP, RN
Senior Speech, Language, Swallowing Pathologist
Head and Neck Cancer Support Group Co-Founder and Group Facilitator
The Queen’s Medical Center, Outpatient Rehabilitation Department
Grace Porras, LPN
Nurse
Maunalani Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Jim Stremick, MPT
Physical Therapist
Prime Care Services Hawaii, Inc.
Warren Tamamoto, MD
Chief of Pulmonology
Kaiser Permanente Hawaii
Juliette Zelada, MD
General Surgeon, Trauma Medical Director
Wilcox Memorial Hospital
Peer-Nominated Winners
Achievement in Advocacy Award
Gary Kajiwara, FACHE, FACHCA, FAAMA
Kuakini Medical Center
Distinguished Service Award
Michael Ramos
Hale Nani Rehabilitation & Nursing Center
Emergency Manager of the Year Award
Paul Burnham
Arcadia Family of Companies
Executive Award
Emilie Smith, RN, BSN, MBA
Castle Home Care
Leadership Award
Susie Gabriel, RN, MSN
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Physician of the Year Award
Craig Ono, MD
Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu
Professional with Heart Award
Hiram Oyama
CareResource Hawaii
Public Health Award
May Okihiro, MD, MS
Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center/UH JABSOM/HICORE
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver Award
Nola Unverferth
CareResource Hawaii
State Representative of the Year Award
Representative Della Au Belatti
State Senator of the Year Award
Senator Rosalyn Baker
Scholarship Winners
Continuing Education
Shannon Larson (Kona Community Hospital)
Natalie Stockton (Maui Memorial Hospital
Community College
Dareen Dameg (Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital)
Rachael Hasner (CareResource Hawaii)
Baccalaureate
Jeramae Marcellano (Straub Clinic & Hospital)
Vergie Bowdern (The Queen’s Medical Center)
Doctorate
Megan Sakamoto-Chun (Castle Home Care)
Vanessa Lui (The Queen’s Medical Center)
Trina Rivers (The Queen’s Medical Center)
Krystina Begonia (Kaiser Permanente)
Masters
Melissa Mansfield (ALTRES Medical)
Trixie Harris (Castle Medical Center)
Jessica Onaga (Pali Momi Medical Center)
Lindsey Vandolah (University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine)
Rich Meiers Health Care
Administration Scholarship
Alyssa Fulgencio
Mahalo to Our Silent Auction Donors
ACE Medical
Alaska Airlines
Andrew Garrett, MPA
Anna Arita
Arcadia Family of Companies
Art Gladstone
Bess Hayashi
Bill Richter
CareResource Hawaii
Castle Medical Center
Consolidated Theatres
CW Associates, CPAs
Diamond Head Classic
Dr. Ranilo Laygo & Ms. Kathleen Libao-Laygo
Emilie Smith
Farrington Health Academy
First Hawaiian Bank
Gary Slovin, Esq.
Goodsill Anderson Quinn & Stifel
Hale Ku’ike Bayside
Hale Ola Kino
Hawaii Bowl
Hawaii Pacific Health
Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club
Hawaiian Airlines
Healthcare Association of Hawaii
Hibiscus Tropical Textiles
Jamie Velasco
Jim & Beth Hoban
Joan White
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children
Ken Zeri
Ko`olau Golf Club
Michelle Iha-Yu
mPower Hawaii
One Kalakaua Senior Living
Paris Station
Pharmacare Hawaii
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
The Bead Gallery
The Queen’s Medical Center
UH Manoa Athletics
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
PRESENTING SPONSOR
GOLD MEDAL SPONSORS
SILVER MEDAL SPONSORS
DIAMOND SPONSOR
SAPPHIRE SPONSOR
RUBY SPONSORS
EMERALD SPONSORS
PEARL SPONSORS
PRINTING SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSORS
2014 Awards & Scholarship Gala
Each year, HAH celebrates the best in the profession with Hawaii healthcare’s equivalent of the academy awards. Please help us to recognize the truly great leaders, advocates, physicians, caregivers and other healthcare professionals at your facility. Awardees will be celebrated at HAH’s annual Awards & Scholarship Dinner on Saturday, November 8 at Ko’olau Ballrooms. This year will be especially meaningful as we celebrate HAH’s 75th anniversary at the dinner.
Guest Details:
Saturday, November 8, 2014 Ko’olau Ballrooms 45-550 Kionaole Road, Kaneohe
Reception begins at 5:30 pm
No-host cocktails/cash bar
Silent Auction
Attire: Best Party Outfit (1930s/40s Optional)
Hawaii Healthcare Hero Award Winners
Melissa Champlin, RN, CHPN
Patient Care Manager
Hospice Hawai`i – Lana`i
Melissa Champlin, RN, CHPN
Sandy Na-o, CNA
Certified Nurse Aide
The Queen’s Medical Center – West Oahu
Sandy Na-o, CNA
Heather Sloan, APRN
Nurse Practitioner
Hawaiian Island Ear Nose and Throat Specialists, Inc.
Heather Sloan, APRN
Belinda McGillicuddy, BS, RRT
Respiratory Therapist
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children
Belinda McGillicuddy, BS, RRT
Troy M. Tanji, M.D.
Eye Physician and Surgeon
Eye Surgery Center of Hawaii
Troy M. Tanji, M.D.
Peer-Nominated Winners
Advocacy
Arthur A. Ushijima, FACHE
The Queen’s Health System
Arthur Ushijima’s acceptance video
Community Service
Department of Emergency Management
City & County of Honolulu
Mel Kaku’s acceptance video
Distinguished Service – Acute
Charlene Iokia
Hawaii State Hospital
Charlene Iokia’s acceptance video
Distinguished Service – HCH
Karen Luberts
Castle Home Care
Karen Luberts’ acceptance video
Distinguished Service – LTC
Dan Banda
Maunalani Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Dan Banda’s acceptance video
Emergency Manager
Shane Correia, CHEP
The Queen’s Medical Center
Shane Correia’s acceptance video
Executive
Kathy Clark, RN, BSN, MBA, FACHE
Wilcox Memorial Hospital and
Kauai Medical Clinic
Kathy Clark’s acceptance video
Leadership
Andi Kubota, RN, MSN, MBA, PNP, NE-BC
Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu
Andi Kubota’s acceptance video
Physician of the Year
Jonathan Pellett, MD
Shriners Hospitals for Children – Honolulu
Dr. Pellett’s acceptance video
Professional with Heart – HCH
Ann Vongchanphen, OTR
CareResource Hawaii
Ann Vongchanphen’s acceptance video
Professional with Heart – LTC
Denby Nakamoto, COTA
Pearl City Nursing Home
Denby Nakamoto’s acceptance video
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Connie Rinaldi
Castle Home Care
Connie Rinaldi’s acceptance video
Achievement in Advocacy
Senator David Ige
Senator Ige’s acceptance video
State Senator of the Year
Senator Josh Green, MD
Senator Green’s acceptance video
State Representative of the Year
Representative Sylvia Luke
Representative Luke’s acceptance video
Scholarship Winners
Congratulations to this year’s ten scholarship winners! Participate in this year’s silent auction to help raise funds for next year’s healthcare scholarships.
Continuing Education
Rebecca O’Brien (Kauai Veterans Memorial and Samuel Mahelona Hospitals)
Baccalaureate
Sharon Sagapolu (Kaiser Hospital)
Michele Brailo (Wahiawa General)
Blossom Jolonino (Straub Clinic & Hospital)
Kent Pardillo (Wahiawa General Hospital)
Selena Fernandez (Kaiser Hospital)
Masters
Miki’ala Stulen (The Queen’s Medical Center)
Christina Hoang (Diagnostic Laboratory Services)
Emily Lucente (Wilcox Memorial Hospital)
Doctorate
Debbie Harrison (Castle Medical Center)
Rich Meiers Health Care Administration Scholarship
Alyssa Fulgencio
In-Kind Donations Graciously Provided By:
Alaska Airlines
Sheraton Waikiki Resort
Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach
Oahu Care Facility
Top of Waikiki
Polynesian Cultural Center
Bill Richter
Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic
UHM Athletics
Ohana Pacific Management Company
Gary Slovin, Esq
Beth Hoban
Farrington Health Academy
Meadow Gold Dairies Hawaii
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Emilie Smith
Kathryn Raethel
Mark Yamakawa
Pharmacare Hawaii
Joy Barua
Ace Medical Inc.
Aaron Mizushima
Sharie Higashionna-Ibarra
A Cup of Tea
Stacie Dickinson
Bess Hayashi
Michelle Iha-Yu
The Bead Gallery Honolulu
Anna Arita
Creations Just For You
Bottega Antoine
All Island Case Management Corp.
Nuuanu Hale
Liliha Healthcare Center
Hawaii Bowl
Consolidated Theatres
CW Associates
Ko`olau Golf Club
Laura Steelquist
Hibiscus Tropical Textiles
Monster Energy
Egans Training Center
Jamie Velasco
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
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2013 Awards & Scholarship Gala
On September 7, 2013, more than three hundred and sixty health care leaders gathered in Ko’olau Brand Ballroom to recognize excellence in health care and invest in the future of Hawaii’s health care by providing scholarships.
The HAH Awards & Scholarship Dinner theme for 2013 was “A Night of Stars”, focused on giving the stars of healthcare who improve and save lives every day the recognition they so deserve.
Actors, actresses and directors get paparazzi followers and red carpet welcomes. At HAH’s annual Awards & Scholarship Dinner, the stars of health care in Hawaii took center stage.
The evening glittered with red-carpet-inspired attire, champagne and one real “lucky diamond.” Shining most brightly were the caregivers, physicians, leaders and behind-the-scenes heroes who profoundly impact the people they serve.
Congratulations to the 2013 honorees and scholarship recipients!
Congratulations 2013 HAH Awardees!
Meet the leaders who are transforming healthcare in the state, inspiring their peers and changing the lives of their patients.
View acceptance speeches on HAH’s youtube channel.
Peer-Nominated Winners
Advocacy
Joy Barua, MBA, MA-OC
Kaiser Permanente – Hawaii
Joy Barua is Kaiser Permamente’s Director of Community Benefit and Health Policy. Described by his nominator as a “health architect” Joy’s commitment to health advocacy is remarkable. Joy was instrumental in the passage of recent legislation to make communities more walkable and bikeable, institute electronic EBT terminals at city farmers markets, and promote farm-to-school and other healthier meal alternatives for schools. HAH is particularly grateful for his instrumental role in bringing best practices from Kaiser to the table to help launch the statewide Hospital Community Health Needs Assessment.
Community Service
Melissa Jackson
Zilber Family Foundation
Melissa Jackson serves on Castle Medical Center’s Governing Board and is chairperson of the Fundraising Committee. Melissa is an active member of the community who supports initiatives that enhance the quality of services and access to care. She is also a champion for improving childhood nutrition. Her nominator describes her as a “true community and hospital asset”.
Distinguished Service – Acute
Ruby Hayasaka, RD, MS, MA
Castle Medical Center
Ruby Hayasaka is Director of Nutritional Services at Castle Medical Center. Her nominator says of her: “Ruby is one of the most innovative, creative, and energetic individuals that I have ever had the privilege of working with.” Passionate about health, wellness and local farming, Ruby has made farmers market produce available for staff on a daily basis and created a Farm Roof at the hospital.
Distinguished Service – Home Care and Hospice
Lea Anne Davis
St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii
Lea Anne Davis is a call center scheduling representative at St. Francis Hospice. Lea Anne is honored tonight for her thoughtfulness, positive attitude, exemplary customer service and going out of her way to help her co-workers and callers. Her nominator shared that “The passion she has for what she does is seen in each and every phone call. She is able to calm patients in their most anxious moments and get them the help they need.”
Distinguished Service – Long Term Care
Joy C. Connell, RN
Oahu Care Facility
Joy Connell is a Nursing Supervisor at Oahu Care Facility. Joy is appreciated for her cheerful friendly demeanor and the countless acts of kindness she does for patients throughout the day. In addition, she trains and mentors staff, and takes on extra responsibility with a smile. Her nominator says “we are forever grateful she chose Oahu Care Facility to work!”
Emergency Manager
Gail Miyahira, OTR, CEAS, CGS, BLS, CHEP
Maui Memorial Medical Center
Gail Miyahira is the Emergency Management Coordinator at Maui Memorial Medical Center and Maui County Area Coordinator for HAH Emergency Services. Gail’s efforts have increased hospital preparedness, response capabilities and awareness among staff and community partners. She has increased emergency management participation within the hospital significantly, and has engaged community partners to ensure the highest level of preparedness and collaboration in the case of a community emergency response.
Leadership – Acute
Martha B. Smith, MBA, MPH, FACHE
Kapi`olani Medical Center for Women and Children
Martha Smith is CEO of Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Martha is well known for leading many charges on many fronts, including establishing a bone marrow collection program after the closure of HMC, collaborating within and outside of the hospital, supporting clinical research, and being a champion for quality. Her nominator shares that Leadership abounds but building a legacy does not. It takes a high level of effective leadership prowess and skill to work with a massive team of staff, physicians, communities, payers, technologies, regulations and others in a complex network and changing environment.
Leadership – Home Care and Hospice
Melissa K. K. Ah Ho-Mauga, MBA
St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii
Melissa Ah Ho-Mauga is Director of Revenue Management at St. Francis Home Care. Her “lead by example” attitude has often placed her in the forefront with clinicians, patients and families. Whenever there are new programs developed in the community, she is one of the key people to sit down and work out processes with the payer or providers. She is recognized for her depth of knowledge, her ethical standards and her commitment to the community. As her nominator shared, she “shows us what customer service should look like.”
Leadership – Long Term Care
Vincent H.S. Lee, FACHE, BCD
Leahi Hospital
Vincent Lee is CEO for the Oahu Region of Hawaii Health System Corporation. In more than 25 years in the health care industry, Vince has proven to be an exemplary leader, role model and visionary for both his employees and the communities they serve. He is responsible for approximately 460 employees and over 500 patients at any given point in time during an average year. From a few of the many letters in support of Vince’s nomination: “Vince is a true leader. He doesn’t push others to follow him; he inspires them to do so. Vince is the rare type of executive who leads, effectively, with both his head and his heart.” “Throughout the community, Vince is known as a health care leader, innovator, mentor and collaborator. Vince Lee is more than a leader; he is a valued resource, trusted guide, and a friend to Hawaii’s health care system.”
Physician of the Year
Anna Ursula Loengard, MD
St. Francis Healthcare System of Hawaii
Dr. Anna Loengard is Chief Medical officer at St. Francis Healthcare System. Lauded as a collaborative visionary, Dr. Loengard focuses on the continuum of care. The quality of un-rushed interactions with her patients is important to her, and she is looked to by staff, physicians and the community as a teacher. She was named a Best Doctor for the fourth consecutive year. A colleague at St. Francis Hospice describes her as “the consummate advocate for hospice patients” and a pioneer in successfully advocating for innovations in Hawaii’s health plans regarding hospice care. She reaches out to other healthcare providers as well as the general public to collaboratively develop solutions to meet the healthcare needs of Hawaii’s fast-growing aging population.
Professional with Heart – Acute
Jayne Tsuchiyama, Dipl. O.M., L.Ac.
The Queen’s Medical Center
Jayne Tsuchiyama is an acupuncturist at The Queen’s Medical Center Cancer Center. Her nominator shares that for most of her patients, Jayne’s acupuncture visit is the highlight of their week. At least one patient credits Jayne with saving her life. Her value to patients is demonstrated by the numerous letters and thank you calls from patients and their caregivers. Her value to the community is demonstrated by her contribution to research, her appointment to the State Board of Acupuncture by Governor Abercrombie, and multiple years of grant funding from the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation.
Professional with Heart – Home Care and Hospice
Patricia Ha, BA, MPT
St. Francis Home Care
Patricia Ha is a physical therapist with St. Francis Home Care. Her nominator describes her as observant, attentive and empathic—a nurse, social worker and therapist all rolled into one. Pat is a therapist who doesn’t give up, and takes time to find out what motivators may help the patient achieve her goals. She is honored for her commitment and perseverance, and for her deeply compassionate care of people.
Rose Ann Poyzer Caregiver
Geraldine Kalilikane
CareResource Hawaii
Geraldine Kalilikane is a home health aide working as a home care specialist with CareResource Hawaii. Her nominator shared that Geraldine’s paramount quality is sensitivity to the needs of her client and their family. Geri considers the entire family even the family dog as her client. One client shared that “she is very precious to us, we consider her a part of our family, we just love her.” Geraldine exemplifies dedication to the provision of the highest quality of care and is a credit to the health care profession.
Achievement in Advocacy
Senator Rosalyn Baker
Senator Baker consistently strives to introduce and support legislation that protects consumers and patients across the state. She understands the nuances and complexities of the legislature and with this knowledge she develops and supports legislation that will make Hawaii a safer and healthier place. Some of her notable recent legislative achievements are passage of oral chemotherapy coverage, colon cancer screening coverage and the state health care exchange coverage enabling laws. Senator Baker was also instrumental in increasing the cigarette tax to provide funding for tobacco control and cancer research.
State Senator of the Year
Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland
Senator Chun Oakland is being recognized for her continued efforts to represent the underserved, not only in her district but across the state. With her vigilance she continues to strive to seek funding for those individuals who are most in need of state services such as Medicaid and public health services. Senator Chun Oakland leads the Kapuna Caucus and recently championed passage of several bills related to elder care which addressed liability insurance, transparency of inspections, and financial abuse and fund a position for an Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Services Coordinator.
State Representative of the Year
Representative Della Au Belatti
Representative Belatti is deeply concerned about access to care for all of Hawaii’s people. She came into a new role as Chair of the House Committee on Health this year and has dived in full force learning about health care issues, participating in stakeholder workgroups to improve public health and wholeheartedly supporting the HAH legislative agenda including the sustainability programs for hospitals and long term care facilities. Representative Belatti has also actively participated in the Hawaii Hospitals Community Health Needs Assessment stakeholder meetings and is an advocate for collaboration across disciplines.
In-Kind Donations Graciously Provided By:
ACE Medical
A Cup of Tea
Aaron Mizushima
Aqua Hotels
Archipelago Hawaii
The Bead Gallery
Ben’s Crafts Inc.
Beth Hoban
Bill Ritcher
Bottega Antione
Brad Chun
Brandon Tengan
Cafe Julia
Castle Medical Center
Celebrity Tuxedos
Consolidated Theatres
CookSpace Hawaii
Corinne Suzuka
Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach
C.S. Wo & Sons, Ltd.
The Cupcake Engineer
Divine Creations Hawaii
Down to Earth
Egan Inoue’s Fit Body Boot Camp
Emilie Smith
Farrington Health Academy
Gary Slovin
Hammercraft
Happiness U
Hawaii Pacific Entertainment
Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club
Herb Yim
Hibiscus Tropical Textiles
Hokulani Bake Shop
Island Heritage
Iyengar Yoga Honolulu
Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children
Ko`olau Golf Club
Lessons in Firearms Education
Liliha Healthcare Center & Nuuanu Hale
Little Ambassadors
Michelle Comeau & Will Schoen
MPower Hawaii
Oahu Care Facility
Prior 2 Pupu Productions
Pharmacare Hawaii
Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
Romala Radcliffe
Rose Ann Poyzer
Sea Glass Fine Art
Sheraton Hawaii Bowl
Sheraton Waikiki Resort
St. Francis Healthcare System
Top of Waikiki town
University of Hawaii at Mānoa Athletics
University of Hawaii at Mānoa Men’s Basketball
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
YWCA of Oahu
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