PruittHealth recently announced the 2017 winners of the Guiding Light Caregiver of the Year Award program at the company's annual Spring Conference. The award allows each PruittHealth location to nominate outstanding CNAs and Pharmacy Technicians to be recognized for dedicated service. Ten finalists are selected and three awards are given annually.

The nominees are reviewed and evaluated based on criteria, such as length of service, dependability, customer service, leadership, professionalism, and an exceptional display of commitment to caring for patients and their families. The top ten finalists are invited to attend a special awards banquet and private reception with their guests. In addition to three grand prizes, each finalist receives an award plaque and recognition from their peers.

The 2017 winners are:

1st place – Sharon Gay, PruittHealth – Raleigh

2nd place – Katherine Donaldson, PruittHealth – Holly Hill

3rd place – Glenda Young, PruittHealth Hospice (Cordele)

Other finalists are:

• Ricardo Kirkwood, PruittHealth – Savannah

• Tresa Jackson, PruittHealth Hospice (Valdosta)

• Valarie Miller, PruittHealth – Lakehaven

• Linda High, The Oaks at Whitaker Glen – Mayview

• Gwenetta Brown, PruittHealth Home First (Albany)

• Wanda Weeks, North Carolina State Veterans Home – Salisbury

• Barbara Wheeler, PruittHealth – Forsyth

Neil L. Pruitt, Jr., Chairman and CEO of PruittHealth, says, "Congratulations to these outstanding professionals, especially Sharon Gay, PruittHealth's 2017 Caregiver of the Year! There is no doubt that Sharon's compassion for others has left a lasting, positive impact on the lives of those who have been in her care. It is Sharon and thousands of caregivers like her who reflect our values and live our mission every day at work, making PruittHealth one of the most esteemed caregiving organizations in the Southeastern United States."