Each year, AAPACN honors individuals and organizations who embody the vision and values of AAPACN—integrity, innovation, inspiration, and influence. They are leaders who inspire their teams, elevate standards of care, and make a lasting impact on residents, families, and colleagues alike. AAPACN was honored to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these professionals at the AAPACN 2025 Conference held in Louisville, Kentucky this week. Let’s meet the AAPACN 2025 Award winners in this video and below.
AAPACN 2025 Impact Award
The AAPACN 2025 Impact Award is presented to a member whose actions over the course of their career have had a positive impact on the nursing profession or the post-acute care field.
Janine Lehman’s career in long-term and post-acute care has left a mark on the profession, both in Kentucky and nationwide. As a clinical consultant at Proactive LTC Consulting, she has dedicated over 40 years to improving quality care, compliance, and education in nursing homes. Her commitment to being onsite and working alongside caregivers has solidified her reputation as a trusted partner, helping facilities overcome challenges and raise standards. AAPACN is honored to present Janine with the 2025 Impact Award.
AAPACN 2025 Organizational Excellence Award
The AAPACN 2025 Organizational Excellence Award recognizes an organization or facility team that has implemented innovative processes and practices to improve the quality of resident care.
National Health Care Associates Inc. has made significant strides in 2024 by embracing technology and enhancing communication throughout its clinical reimbursement processes. By streamlining their internal communication channels, such as developing individual Center CHATs within Microsoft Teams, and implementing advanced technology tools, National Health Care Associates Inc. has fostered a more efficient, collaborative environment across departments. These efforts have led to measurable improvements in key areas such as Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) reimbursement, managed care, case-mix index (CMI), and quality measures, underscoring National Health Care Associates Inc.’s commitment to delivering high-quality care while optimizing operational efficiency.
AAPACN 2025 Clinical Leader of the Year Award
The AAPACN 2025 Clinical Leader of the Year Award is presented to a clinical leader who embodies the four values of AAPACN – inspiration, influence, integrity, and innovation.
Leah Hillenburg is a clinical/quality consultant whose 35 years of experience in long-term care have made a lasting impact on both her colleagues and the residents she serves. With a career spanning numerous roles, from direct-care provider to nursing home administrator, Leah’s expertise and leadership have guided five facilities across three states. Leah exemplifies the values of inspiration, influence, integrity, and innovation, and her unwavering commitment to the highest standards of care and her genuine acts of kindness make her a true leader in the field.
AAPACN 2025 LTPAC Shining Star Award
The AAPACN 2025 LTPAC Shining Star Award honors a member who embodies a spirit of inspiration, touching the lives of residents, families, and co-workers.
Chelsey Schroeder exemplifies the highest standards of dedication, compassion, and professionalism. She demonstrates her commitment to excellence not only in her role but also in the lives of those around her. Chelsey’s passion for resident care, continual professional development, and unwavering support for her team make her a true leader. Through her tireless work ethic and genuine desire to improve the quality of life for residents, Chelsey has made a lasting impact on her facility and her colleagues, earning her the honor of this award.
AAPACN 2025 Clinical Assessment Professional of the Year Award
The AAPACN 2025 Clinical Assessment Professional of the Year Award recognizes a nurse assessment coordinator (NAC) or other member of the interdisciplinary team (IDT) who holds a Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified (RAC-CT©) or Resident Assessment Coordinator—Certified Advanced (RAC-CTA©) credential and who exemplifies the highest level of knowledge, skill, and integrity within their role in the Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) process.
Kimberly Hanson is the lead MDS coordinator in her facility and exemplifies the qualities of excellence, dedication, and compassion that this award honors. With more than 15 years of experience in long-term care and a passion for providing personalized, high-quality care, Kimberly embodies an unwavering commitment to both the RAI process and the individuals she cares for. Kimberly’s expertise in MDS and her leadership in fostering a supportive team environment have not only improved the care of residents but have also strengthened the entire MDS team in her facility.