Manatee Chamber Announces Winners for the 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce recognized individuals, institutions, and programs making an extraordinary impact on the health and well-being of our community during the 12th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards Breakfast held Thursday, June 18.
More than 50 nominations were submitted this year, highlighting the remarkable dedication, innovation, compassion, and leadership demonstrated throughout Manatee County’s healthcare community. Awards were presented in nine categories honoring healthcare professionals, volunteers, organizations, and programs whose contributions extend well beyond the scope of their daily responsibilities.
The awards breakfast was held at the GROVE Ballroom in Lakewood Ranch, with Matt Lapointe with Blalock Walters, P.A. and the Chamber’s Healthcare Committee Chair serving as the emcee for the event.
The 2026 Champions of Healthcare Award recipients are:
Lifetime Achievement Award
Vernon DeSear, Manatee Memorial Foundation
For decades, Vernon DeSear has provided visionary leadership and unwavering service to healthcare, education, tourism, and community development throughout Manatee County. His legacy of servant leadership, mentorship, and community stewardship has strengthened countless organizations and improved the quality of life for residents across the region.
Youth Volunteer Award
Emma Timmons, Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center (AHEC)
Emma Timmons was recognized for her exceptional commitment to improving community health through volunteer service, health education, and outreach efforts. Her leadership, compassion, and dedication to serving others exemplify the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Adult Volunteer Award
James Curran, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
James Curran was honored for his selfless volunteer service and dedication to enhancing the patient and visitor experience. His generosity, reliability, and willingness to serve wherever needed have made a meaningful impact on patients, families, and healthcare staff alike.
Innovation Award
Community Health Program, Manatee County Government
The Community Health Program was recognized for transforming care delivery for vulnerable residents by bridging emergency services, healthcare providers, and social services. As the first program in Florida and only the second in the nation to earn full accreditation under the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Services Mobile Integrated Healthcare standards, the program serves as a national model for innovation and community-based healthcare.
Institution/Program Award
Blue Butterfly Children’s Grief Care, Empath Health / Tidewell Hospice
Blue Butterfly Children’s Grief Care was honored for providing specialized support to children and families coping with the loss of a loved one. Through evidence-based counseling, peer support groups, and grief programming, the organization helps children build resilience, improve emotional well-being, and navigate the healing process in a safe and compassionate environment.
Allied Health Professional Award
Megan Hawkins, RN, HCA Florida Blake Hospital
Megan Hawkins was recognized for her leadership in injury prevention, community education, and public health outreach. Through initiatives ranging from falls prevention and trauma education to organ donation awareness and student engagement, she has significantly expanded access to health and safety resources throughout Manatee County.
Nurse Award
Sina Caffrey, RN-C, Rowlett Elementary Academy
Sina Caffrey was honored for her extraordinary commitment to student health and wellness. Known for creating a safe, supportive environment for students and families, she continued to serve her school community with strength and compassion while facing her own health challenges. Her dedication, resilience, and advocacy have made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Physician/Dentist Award
Lana Nusbaum, MD, Turning Points
Dr. Lana Nusbaum was recognized for her lifelong commitment to patient care and service. Following a distinguished medical career, she has continued to dedicate her time and expertise as a volunteer physician serving uninsured and underserved individuals through Turning Points and other community clinics, ensuring access to quality healthcare for those most in need.
Individual of Merit Award
Mark Goodson, Manatee Health
Mark Goodson was honored for his leadership and advocacy in advancing healthcare access and community wellness initiatives throughout Manatee County. His collaborative approach and commitment to improving health outcomes have helped strengthen partnerships and expand resources that benefit residents across the region.
The 2026 Champions of Healthcare Awards Judges:
Rob Coseo, VITAS Healthcare
Dr. Kristin DesErmia, Coastal Hearing Care
Shauna Francis, HCA Florida Blake Hospital
Matt Lapointe, Blalock Walters, P.A.
Valerie Vale, Manatee County Medical Society
Thank you to our sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: Regions Bank
Scholarship Sponsor: Keiser University
Program Sponsors: Empath Health / Tidewell Hospice, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), Manatee Health, and Manatee Memorial Foundation
Corporate Sponsors: Acrisure, Blalock Walters, P.A., HCA Florida Blake Hospital, and MCR Health
Community Sponsor: GTE Financial
Goody Bag Sponsor: Coastal Hearing Care
Print Sponsor: Minuteman Press of Bradenton
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, a nationally recognized chamber of commerce with more than 2,200 member businesses and organizations representing over 75,000 employees, has offices in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch to serve the greater Manatee County area. Its mission is to build a positive business environment while enhancing the community’s quality of life.
