Ceca proudly announces Melinda Dennis-Wheatley as a recipient of a 2025 National Ceca Award! Melinda is a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at IntegraCare’s Candle Light Cove community—located in Talbot County, Maryland and offering a full spectrum of senior living options to meet individual needs, preferences, and lifestyles.
Melinda was recognized for being a caregiver whose quiet presence speaks volumes, going beyond meeting physical needs, and tending to residents’ emotional and spiritual wellbeing with gentleness, patience, and deep compassion. Her calm demeanor and thoughtful care create safety, trust, and comfort for residents across memory care and assisted living. She consistently puts residents first and goes above and beyond for families, coworkers, and her team. Dennis-Wheatley approaches every situation with positivity, integrity, and grace, willingly stepping in wherever she’s needed. Her impact is profound, and she is truly a gem in the community.
“Melinda Dennis-Wheatley represents the very best of what it means to be a caregiver,” said Larry Rouvelas, CEO of IntegraCare, which operates Candle Light Cove. “Her reliability and genuine kindness make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents and the teammates she works beside each day. Being named one of just six National CECA Award winners is an extraordinary honor, and it reflects the heart, dedication and quiet excellence Melinda brings to Candle Light Cove every single day. We are incredibly proud of her and grateful to have her as part of the IntegraCare family.”
Melinda’s story and connection at Candle Light Cove goes even deeper. In addition to serving the residents at the community for years, she also works alongside three of her sisters. IntegraCare wrote a story about the Dennis sisters, and her colleagues and co-workers have nothing but good things to say about Melinda:
“Melinda has always displayed generosity, integrity and reliability at Candle Light Cove. Every day she gives 110%,” said Jesstina Brice-Taylor, administrative services director. “She has a pleasant personality and outlook in every situation. She always goes above and beyond for the residents. She is truly a gem.”
“With every calm word and every thoughtful gesture, she brings comfort, peace and connection to those in her care,” Grace Lyons, community relations director commented. “Her soft-spoken nature and gentle touch create a sense of safety and trust that our residents deeply feel, even if they can’t always express it. She sees the whole person — heart, mind and soul — and meets each day with quiet grace and unwavering compassion.”
Nate Hamme, President and Executive Director of Ceca Foundation, commented, “The best part of our work is getting to read the inspiring stories of amazing caregivers around the country. Melinda exhibits a true dedication to the residents, families and team members at Candle Light Cove, ensuring that she brings her best self to work each day. This approach to caregiving has an incredibly positive influence on the community.” Hamme added, “We’re proud to have Ceca Partners like IntegraCare that are committed to fostering a culture of gratitude where we can honor caregivers like Melinda with awards and recognition they deserve.”
An award reception was held on March 17 at the Candle Light Cove campus where Ceca President Nate Hamme presented the award to Melinda along with leadership from IntegraCare, other community leaders, staff and residents. Additionally, she received a cash award of $2,500 and an engraved commemorative trophy.
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The 2025 National Ceca Awards are sponsored by Holleran Consulting, Know by KARE, MemoryFox, Missouri Health Care Association, Ohio Health Care Association, Pennsylvania Health Care Association and RB Health Partners, Inc.