Northwest Health – Starke Announces Employees of the Year
9/8/2025
Northwest Health – Starke has announced its selections for Employee of the Year, Clinical Manager of the Year, Non-Clinical Manager of the Year, and its Nursing Excellence Award recipient. These awards honor individuals who were nominated by their peers for their outstanding performance and exemplary service.
“We are proud to recognize these exceptional team members for the impact they make each day,” said Mark Casanova, Chief Executive Officer for Northwest Health – Starke. “Their leadership, teamwork and dedication to our mission not only strengthen our organization but also enhance the care we provide to the people of Starke County and surrounding areas.”
The winners are as follows:
Employee of the Year: David Branson, R.N.
As a charge nurse in the emergency department, Dave Branson is known for his compassion, teamwork and steady leadership. He treats every patient with respect, supports colleagues with his knowledge, and brings positivity to even the most stressful shifts. Whether calming anxious patients, lending a hand to the medical-surgical unit, mentoring peers, or ensuring smooth admissions and difficult IVs, Dave leads with kindness. His dedication makes a lasting impact on both patients and the entire care team.
Clinical Manager of the Year: Andrea Back, RN, BSN
As quality director at Northwest Health – Starke, Andrea Back drives excellence in patient care, patient experience and engagement. An employee with Northwest Health for almost 40 years, Back is known for her positivity, leadership and collaborative approach across several areas, including infection prevention and quality improvement. She inspires colleagues, strengthens relationships across the organization, and fosters top-tier patient experiences while actively supporting community initiatives. Northwest Health – Starke consistently achieves remarkable quality milestones, much to Back’s credit.
Non-Clinical Manager of the Year: Mike Dehaven
As security manager at Northwest Health – Starke, Mike Dehaven ensures the safety of patients and staff while leading his team with professionalism, compassion and positivity. Drawing on his experience as a police officer, he responds quickly to challenging situations, mentors colleagues on best practices, and fosters a secure environment that supports both employees and patients. He regularly reviews opportunities to improve safety, and is often the first to respond when an issue occurs, always at a controlled and supportive level.
Nursing Excellence Award Winner: Jessica Rick, RN
A medical-surgical nurse at Northwest Health – Starke, Jessica Rick is often praised by the patients she cares for, and their families. She has exceptional nursing schools and acts with compassion at even the most stressful times. Not only does she advocate for her patients but for her department as well. Rick is a natural leader and is known to step-up and do whatever needs to be done. Her passion for nursing and commitment to excellence are an asset to the Northwest Health – Starke family.
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