KANNAPOLIS — Cabarrus Health Alliance (CHA) recently gathered for its annual Years of Service luncheon, celebrating the dedication and contributions of its staff. The event honored milestone employees and recognized their service to the community.

This year also marked the introduction of the Spirit of CHA Award, created in memory of Kevin Shanus to recognize an employee who embodies CHA’s core values of collaboration, compassion, integrity and adaptability. The inaugural recipient of this special honor was Cynthia Wise.

Honoring Cynthia Wise – The first Spirit of CHA Award recipient

Cynthia Wise was selected from a distinguished group of nominees by a panel of CHA board members. Her colleagues shared heartfelt words about her unwavering commitment to CHA’s mission:

• “Cynthia is a shining example of CHA’s core values. Her dedication to patient care goes beyond duty — she truly makes every patient feel valued, comforted and loved.”
• “She greets every patient and employee with a warm, genuine smile, bringing positivity to every interaction, no matter the circumstances.”
• “Every holiday, she wears a festive headband and decorations, then gives them away to a child — bringing joy to those around her.”
• “Cynthia is the very best of us and was very much loved by Kevin — she is the spirit of CHA.”In honor of Wise’s recognition, her photo and a Spirit of CHA plaque will be displayed on the CHA History Wall in Kannapolis, which will be updated annually to showcase future winners.

“I am truly honored to receive the first Spirit of CHA Award in memory of Kevin Shanus,” Wise said. “This award reminds me that even when we feel unnoticed, God sees our worth, and we should always take time to listen, be kind and lift each other up. My mission is to be a light for others, offering a smile, a listening ear and a caring heart to my coworkers and patients alike.”

Recognizing all Spirit of CHA nominees

CHA acknowledged all the staff members nominated for the award, listed in alphabetical order:

• Brandea Watts
• Branisha Smith
• Casey Brown
• Cynthia Wise
• Dr. Elly Steel
• Jim Hawn
• Karime Benge
• Kathy Bolton
• Dr. Kimberly Canton Kane
• Laura Pierce Crayton
• Mariann Yount
• Melissa Blovsky
• Mike Estes
• Sandra Gallardo-Arriaga
• Sarah Vingoe
• Tammy Alexander

The selection committee shared how difficult it was to choose a single recipient, noting the inspiring stories and dedication reflected in each nomination.

“Cabarrus Health Alliance management extends its deepest gratitude to all employees for their unwavering service and commitment to public health,” the organization said in a release. “The organization looks forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating those who exemplify the Spirit of CHA in the years to come.”