Century Nurse Receives Statewide Rising Star Award from Florida Health Care Association

CENTURY, Fla. – Sonia Wilson, a Licensed Practical Nurse at Century Center for Rehabilitation and Healing, received the statewide 2023 Rising Star Award in Long Term Care Nursing during the Florida Health Care Association’s (FHCA) 2023 Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards.

Wilson, who works the night shift at the care center, was recognized for her outstanding work ethic and leadership among her peers. Earning such nicknames as “Lady with the Lamp” and “Ms. Florence Nightingale,” Wilson is known for her continuous compassion and commitment to her patients.

“Often when she clocks out after an overnight shift, Sonia can be found shopping for gifts for the residents to make sure they have what they need – and that shopping excursion is usually a good 30-minute drive from the facility,” said Tiffanie Edwards, Director of Nursing at Century Center for Rehabilitation and Healing. “As someone who is never late or calls out sick, Sonia is an inspiration not only to her peers but to everyone in the health care community.”

Nominated by FHCA-member skilled nursing and assisted living centers, FHCA’s Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Award honors health care professionals who reflect the unique characteristics, professionalism, and expanded skill sets needed in the profession. Honorees are recognized for their important roles in demonstrating a person-centered care approach to residents and patients and in helping centers achieve continuous quality improvements.

“Sonia’s quality caregiving and dedication to her peers and residents is what helps make Florida’s nursing centers exceptional,” said FHCA CEO Emmett Reed. “We’re proud to recognize her for her exceptional approach to the profession.”

Recipients of this year’s other awards are:

• Licensed Practical Nurse of the Year: Laura Meech, Director of Education/Infection Prevention at Palm Garden of Sun City Center
• Registered Nurse of the Year: Teresa Thompson, Assistant Director of Nursing at Valencia Hills Health and Rehabilitation Center in Lakeland
• Nurse Administrator of the Year: Farah Claude, Director of Nursing at Aventura Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in North Miami Beach
• Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year: Audrey Foster, Certified Nursing Assistant at Sea Breeze Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Vero Beach

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2023

PRESS CONTACT:
Kristen Knapp, APR
850-510-4389 or kknapp@fhca.org