Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) hosted its annual Service Awards banquet on Wednesday, September 17, celebrating employees for their dedication and commitment to the organization.

The event, held at Lake Junaluska’s Warren Center, highlighted the impact of team members who have reached significant career milestones in five-year increments, ranging from 5 to 35 years of service. Honorees were invited to bring a guest, and many departmental leaders joined the evening to accompany and celebrate their staff.

In 2025, 77 employees will reach milestone anniversaries, representing 900 combined years of service. The banquet celebrated those who were able to attend, with additional staff marking their milestones throughout the year.

The Service Awards program reflects the hospital’s deep appreciation for the people who form its foundation. Each honoree has contributed not only years, but also skill, compassion, and steady commitment that shape the patient experience. Their milestones underscore the enduring strength of HRMC’s workforce and its vital role in caring for Haywood County and beyond.

2025 honorees include:

5 Years: Abigail Powell, Butch Bridges, Celia Barbieri, Christian Helms, Christopher Israel, Darlene Haley, Don Coffin II, Felicia Royster, Heath Boyles, James Pantke, Jennifer Leichssenring, Jocelyn Green, Kaleigh Unterreiner, Katherine Hefner, Kimberly Strong, Lyndsey Troemel, Mary Morris, Mary Ybanez, Michelle Chervenak, Priscilla Royster, Randi Burgess, Rebecca Onder, Robert Kwan, Robin Parton, Steven Sears, Teresa Arrington, Terri Few, Tonya Holcombe, Traci Lombard.

10 Years: Alex Clark, Caitlin Smathers, Candie Bradley, Carolyn Hill, Celia Hyde, Erin Norman, Geoffrey Rhea, James Flora III, Jamie Price, Kathryn Hargrove, Kimberly Postell, Linda Cerny, Melissa Kilby, Monica Green, Nicole Stanton, Ramona Harville, Robin Batchelor, Shane Basinger, Sharon Arnold, Susana Davis.

15 Years: Andrea Ferguson, Ashley Passmore, Barbie Champion, Brittany Crisp, Charles Conway, Danyell Wilson, David Peterson, David Wangerin-Lile, Jackie Evans, Kimberly Shuler, Lynn Frazier, Michelle Ruff, Olivia Muse, Paul Albert, Robin Matthews, Rose Knight, William Moore.

20 Years: Allison Burnette, Andrew Morgan, Kim Newland, Staci Ensley.

25 Years: Brian Fisher, Lilliam Tua.

30 Years: Kimberly Jamison.

35 Years: Deloris Cochran, Gail McGaha, Patricia Hampton, Sarah Hollifield.

“Recognizing the commitment of our team is one of the most meaningful traditions we have,” said Sue Shugart, FACHE, CPPS, chief executive officer of Haywood Regional Medical Center. “Every year of service represents countless moments of care, comfort, and connection shared with patients and families. These honorees embody the spirit of our mission of making communities healthier, and we are deeply grateful for the legacy they continue to build.”