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Sun City Center Licensed Practical Nurse Earns FHCA 2023 LPN of the Year Award

SUN CITY CENTER, Fla. – Laura Meech, a valued team member at Palm Garden of Sun City Center, has been honored with this year’s statewide Licensed Practical Nurse Award during the Florida Health Care Association’s (FHCA) 2023 Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards.

Meech’s career path to her current position began as a nurse in the U.S. Army. Since then she has worked in various sectors including oncology, urology, and pediatric nursing, before becoming a nurse in long term care. Since arriving at Palm Garden in 2013, Meech has served in several roles, including case manager, unit manager, and now director of education and infection prevention. In her current position, Meech effectively communicates with team members and makes them feel confident in their positions.

“Laura is known as a problem solver and a team player who is compassionate, caring, and has a unique laugh that brings the smile out in everyone around her,” said Brian Bentz, Executive Director of Palm Garden of Sun City Center. “She is someone who anticipates and understands what needs to be done to achieve successful outcomes, and she takes on every role with a determination to learn the skills needed to excel.”

Nominated by FHCA-member skilled nursing and assisted living centers, FHCA’s Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards honor 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.

“Laura Meech embodies the best of what an LPN is, and we’re thrilled to recognize her as the 2023 LPN of the Year,” said Emmett Reed, FHCA CEO. “Laura’s drive and continuous support of her residents and peers is the kind of approach that makes Florida’s nursing centers the best in the nation.”

Recipients of this year’s other awards are:

  • 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
  • Rising Star in Long Term Care Nursing: Sonia Wilson, Licensed Practical Nurse at Century Center for Rehabilitation and Healing in Century

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 7, 2023

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