AHCA Awards Program

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​Each year, AHCA​ honors individuals who are dedicated to improving the quality of lives of residents and their surrounding communities. All AHCA member facilities are encouraged to apply, including skilled nursing facilities, short and long term care facilities, Not for Profit (NFP) long term care providers, intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) residential services providers (including intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ICFs/IID), and other individuals who work in the long term care field, including direct care, education, research​, and resident advocacy.


​Members may nominate eligible candidates in one of two categories:

AHCA Leader of the Year Award

This award recognizes an Administrator/Executive Director, Director of Nursing, or someone in a regional leadership position who demonstrates outstanding innovation, achievement, and capabilities in their provision of high-quality, person-centered care in a service-oriented culture in a long term care facility.

AHCA Noble Caregiver Award

This award recognizes frontline caregivers, support and office staff from any department for their contributions that lead to improved quality of life for the residents and create a better work environment for the facility's staff. This includes, but is not limited to, direct care staff from nursing (also includes CNAs, LNAs, and LPNs), therapists, support/office staff, housekeeping, dietary, activities/recreation, laundry, and maintenance departments.

All nominations must be submitted electronically via Award Force. Faxed or handwritten nominations are not accepted. Honorees in each category are recognized at AHCA/NCAL’s Annual Convention and Expo.

2025 NOMINATIONS COMING SOON!​​​​​​​


Please see the AHCA Rules and Guidelines for more information.​

Please visit the webpage for the Mary K. Ousley Champion of Quality Award, which recognizes an individual that has made significant national contributions to advancing quality performance in long-term and/or post-acute care, including either skilled nursing or assisted living settings.​​