Health Carousel International’s Employee of the Year Nominees – 2025

At Health Carousel International (HCI), the Employee of the Year recognition honors healthcare professionals whose impact is felt not just in moments, but across an entire year of service. These nominees represent excellence through consistency, compassion, and commitment to patient care across diverse specialties and communities in the US.

Each story reflects what it means to lead with purpose, serve with heart, and show up for patients and teams day after day.

Sofia Shain E., RN

Current State: Oregon
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: ICU, Pediatrics, Critical Care

Sofia’s pride in nursing comes from the everyday moments where compassion meets action. Working in critical care and pediatrics, she has learned that meaningful impact often happens quietly—through presence, teamwork, and calm reassurance in difficult moments.

“Every day I come to work, I remind myself that being there for patients and families is already making a difference.”

Her dedication and positive mindset have shaped a year defined by trust, teamwork, and patient-centered care.

Ian D., RN

Current State: Ohio
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: OR

Ian believes that every patient deserves to feel valued and respected. In the operating room, he approaches each case with focus, responsibility, and professionalism, understanding that preparation and attentiveness can change outcomes.

“Every single patient is VIP. That mindset guides everything I do.”

His consistent commitment to excellence and patient safety has made a lasting impression throughout the year.

Clarissa O., RN

Current State: Oregon
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: NICU

For Clarissa, pride in nursing is found in the smallest victories. Working in the NICU, she understands that even when outcomes are uncertain, compassion and dedication still matter deeply.

“Every day I come to work knowing that showing up with care and purpose already makes a difference.”

Her steady presence and heartfelt care have defined a year of service rooted in empathy and resilience.

Eloisa Mae R., RN

Current State: New Jersey
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: Neuro ICU

Eloisa Mae’s most meaningful moments come from caring for patients who cannot speak for themselves. In Neuro ICU, she has learned that advocacy, patience, and attentiveness are essential to honoring each patient’s dignity.

“Being there for patients who cannot express themselves is where nursing truly becomes meaningful.”

Her commitment to compassionate, detail-oriented care has shaped a year of quiet leadership and impact.

Nazly T., RN

Current State: Texas
Country of Origin: Iran
Specialty: ICU

Nazly’s year has been defined by supporting patients and families through some of their most difficult moments. Working in intensive care, she understands that nursing extends beyond clinical skill to emotional presence and trust.

“Caring for patients and families during critical moments reminds me why I chose this profession.”

Her professionalism and empathy have been a steady source of comfort and strength throughout the year.

Evelyn D., RN

Current State: Pennsylvania
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS

Evelyn takes pride in the relationships she builds with patients over time. In medical-surgical care, she believes that consistency, patience, and kindness can leave a lasting impact long after discharge.

“Sometimes the biggest difference is simply being there and truly caring.”

Her year reflects dedication rooted in service and compassion.

Jhan Raphaella A., RN

Current State: Maine
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS, ICU

Jhan Raphaella’s story stands out as one defined by purpose, growth, and unwavering commitment. Working across medical-surgical and intensive care settings, she has demonstrated clinical confidence balanced with humility and teamwork.

“Moments when patients recover, families feel supported, or lives are saved remind me why nursing matters.”

Her impact has been felt consistently throughout the year, making her a clear reflection of what Employee of the Year represents.

Rica N., RN

Current State: Maine
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS, ER

Rica finds pride in providing safe, compassionate care even during the most demanding shifts. Working in both medical-surgical and emergency settings, she has learned that adaptability and empathy are essential in every patient interaction.

“Knowing that I gave my best, even in the busiest moments, is what makes me proud to be a nurse.”

Her dedication has helped shape a year marked by resilience and service.

Honoring Our 2025 Nominees

These nominees represent the heart of HCI—professionals whose commitment extends beyond individual achievements to a year-long impact on patients, families, and teams. Each story reflects excellence built through consistency, compassion, and purpose.