Ceca proudly announces Shannon Gronniger as a recipient of a 2024 National Ceca Award! Shannon is a member of the environmental services team at Colonial Springs Healthcare Center, a skilled nursing, memory care and rehabilitation facility located in Buffalo, Missouri, owned and operated by Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation, part of Citizens Memorial Hospital (CMH).
Shannon was recognized for her selfless acts of kindness and devotion, embodying the true spirit of caregiving through compassion that extends far beyond the responsibilities of her job role in environmental services. Family members of a resident shared they are comforted knowing Shannon treats their loved one like her own. Even during inclement weather, she has chosen to remain at the facility rather than go home, putting residents’ safety and comfort first.
Shannon’s generosity knows no bounds—whether it’s a warm hug, a kind word, or ensuring no resident goes without. She regularly plans special celebrations and often spends her own money on gifts and supplies for residents, and ensures that each resident feels valued and loved. Her unwavering commitment to residents has previously earned her the CMH Tulip Award and now national recognition from Ceca.
“Shannon is one of the most exceptional caregivers I’ve met in nearly 30 years of working in long-term care,” said Roy Pace, Administrator of Colonial Springs. “She’s described by coworkers as a diamond in the rough and a true blessing to all who know her. Her spirit shines through in her work every day.”
As a national Ceca Award honoree, Shannon received a $2,500 cash prize and an engraved commemorative trophy. The award was presented in person by Hamme and Pace, along with Tim Francka, administrative director of long-term care at CMH Foundation, CMH leadership and members of the Colonial Springs community.
Nate Hamme, President and Executive Director of Ceca Foundation, praised Shannon for exceeding expectations and serving as a role model in the caregiving community. “It is an honor to recognize Shannon for her dedication and caregiving spirit that make a real difference in people’s lives,” Hamme said. “She is a shining example of the kind of caregiver we sought to recognize when Ceca was founded—someone who puts those they care for first and goes above and beyond what is in her job description. The positive impact she has on Colonial Springs is undeniable.”
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The 2024 National Ceca Awards are sponsored by MemoryFox, Ohio Health Care Association, RB Health Partners, Inc. and Smartlinx.