WellLink Celebrates Healthcare Professionals at First-Ever Compassion in Action Awards

Amid an evening filled with gratitude and inspiration, on Oct. 30 WellLink celebrated the recipients of its inaugural Compassion in Action Awards at its Cleveland headquarters.

Shining a light on the healthcare professionals whose compassion, dedication and service make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of Northeast Ohio communities, the awards reflect the power of compassion in every corner of care, from hospitals and community clinics to schools, nonprofits, and local organizations.

“At WellLink, our mission is to strengthen the health and well-being of communities across our region, and we believe that starts with people,” said WellLink President & CEO Brian Lane. “People who lead with heart. People who show up for others, quietly and consistently. People who remind us that compassion is not just value, it is an action. It is our hope that the spirit of compassion and community that we celebrate continues to ripple forward, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.”

After a nomination process, 12 finalists were selected across four categories. Representing a wide range of healthcare roles, from frontline clinicians to support staff, each finalist was nominated by a peer, a colleague, or someone whose life they have touched.

Finalists received a handcrafted glass heart created by Cleveland artists at the Glass Bubble Project, while each winner received an award statue and a $500 cash prize. In addition, WellLink will award a $500 scholarship to a student pursuing a career in each winner’s field.

Compassion in Action Award Honorees

The Guardian of Service Award honors an individual’s unwavering commitment to service and community while demonstrating a purposeful presence that uplifts everyone around them. Breaunna Cox, homeownership preservation program manager, CHN Housing Partners, was chosen for her compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to helping others feel heard and empowered.

The Inclusive Impact Award honors someone who helps everyone feel like they belong. They speak up for fairness, celebrate what makes us different, and help create an environment where all voices are welcomed. Yvonka Hall, executive director, Northeast Ohio Black Health Coalition, was selected for her fearless advocacy, compassionate leadership, and lifelong commitment to equity and inclusion.

The Rising Star Award recognizes an individual full of ideas, eager to grow, and always willing to lend a hand while inspiring those around them. Matthew Spradlin, associate director of facilities, Hospice of the Western Reserve, was selected for his determination, willingness to collaborate, and his ability to solve problems with contagious energy and positivity.

The Heart of Healthcare Award reminds us that healthcare is rooted in humanity. This award is a tie among three individuals who embody empathy and kindness and lead with heart:

• Christie Ollerton, school nurse, MetroHealth & Urban Community School, was selected for her calming presence, compassionate approach, and commitment to keeping students safe, healthy, and happy.
• Marina Lazbin, interim medical director, Hospice of the Western Reserve, was selected for bringing a high level of humanity to every interaction and for helping families feel more comfortable during life’s most difficult moments.
• Amber Black, family nurse practitioner and chief medical officer, Village of Healing, was selected for leading with empathy and kindness, and her commitment to making patients feel seen, cared for, and supported.

At WellLink, the mission to strengthen the well-being of communities across Northeast Ohio was reflected in every story shared throughout the evening. The event reaffirmed that when compassion guides action, it not only improves healthcare but also positively transforms lives and communities.

With generous support from sponsor Moderna, the event marked the start of a meaningful new annual tradition. WellLink looks forward to honoring the heroes of health and well-being across Northeast Ohio in the years to come.