Health Care Angels Class of 2026. Back Row L-R: De’Sharrah Johnson, Patricia Koprivica, Passion Gibson, Angela Jacobs, Joy Lundberg, Andrew Girgis, Alicia Swisher, Kristen Maldonado, Romee Natschke, Jasmine Rankin-Hawkins, Barbara Miller. Front Row L-R: Abby Blume, Jennifer Rose, Angela Edward, Danielle Rimert, Suzanne Harmon, Jody Dennis (courtesy photo)
(September 3, 2026 2:55 PM ET) The 19th Annual Health Care Angels Awards were presented Wednesday, September 2 at the Commonwealth Commerce Center. Again this year, Jackson Magazine recognized the health care professionals whose compassion, dedication, and service make a lasting impact throughout Jackson County.
The evening began with remarks from Jennie Cronkhite, Director of Operations for Jackson Publishing Co., who reflected on the extraordinary responsibilities health care professionals carry each day and the vital role they play in supporting patients, families, and the broader community.
This year, more than 80 individuals were nominated by patients, family members, co-workers, and community members whose lives have been touched by their care. Following a review process conducted by a volunteer selection committee comprised of local health care and community leaders, 17 honorees were selected for recognition.
The 2026 Health Care Angels represent a wide range of professions, including nursing, social work, medicine, behavioral health, hospice care, rehabilitation, senior services, and community health. While their responsibilities differ, each honoree shares a commitment to serving others with compassion, professionalism, and excellence.
Gratitude was extended to the event’s Presenting Sponsors, Lloyd Ganton Retirement Centers, Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists, and Walton Insurance Group. Additional thanks were given to Supporting Sponsor Right at Home, along with community partners whose generosity helped make the event possible.
2026 Health Care Angels
- Abby Blume, Western School District
- Jody Dennis, Optimal Care
- Angela Edward, Thome PACE
- Passion Gibson, Passion Centered Care Solutions, LLC, Arcadia Home Care and Centria Autism
- Andrew Girgis, Independent Emergency Physicians
- Suzanne Harmon, Henry Ford Health Jackson
- Angela Jacobs, Henry Ford Health Jackson Hospital
- De’Sharrah Johnson, Center for Family Health
- Patricia Koprivica, Henry Ford Health Jackson
- Joy Lundberg, Henry Ford Health Jackson Hospital
- Kristen Maldonado, Optimal Care
- Barbara Miller, Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists
- Romee Natschke, Legacy Assisted Living
- Jasmine Rankin-Hawkins, Mid-Michigan Health Centers
- Danielle Rimert, The Growing Tree Collaborative Pediatric Therapy
- Jennifer Rose, Henry Ford Health
- Alicia Swisher, Swisher’s Bizzy Caring, PLLC & Henry Ford Behavioral Health-Washington Way
To learn more about each honoree and their inspiring stories, read the September 2026 issue of Jackson Magazine, available online and throughout the community.
Nominations for the 2027 Health Care Angels Awards are open now at JacksonMagazine.com.
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