Alexandria, VA. – Today Goodwin Living™, a not-for-profit, faith-based, senior living and healthcare services organization in the National Capital Region, announced that Goodwin Home Care Operations Manager Shunquanna “Q” Woolard, BS, PN/ALM-CDP, was honored as a Healthcare Council 2025 Employee of the Year. Woolard was recognized at the Healthcare Council’s Annual Employee of the Year Awards Luncheon on March 20, 2025.
Presented annually, the Healthcare Council Employee of the Year Award is given to an individual employee of member organizations who each select someone with outstanding service during the prior year. Recognition is given to those who have made a significant contribution to healthcare and is based on three criteria: sustainability, quality and customer/patient satisfaction.
“Shunquanna Woolard is a true leader whose passion and dedication are felt by everyone she works with,” said Rob Liebreich, President and CEO of Goodwin Living. “Her ability to inspire and uplift those around her has not only strengthened our team but has also deeply enriched the lives of the older adults we serve. She approaches every challenge with innovation and heart, always finding ways to improve care while fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.”
As Operations Manager, Woolard has been instrumental in ensuring the financial sustainability of Goodwin Home Care. Her efforts have directly enhanced efficiency, reduced costs and improved service delivery, significantly impacting the department’s bottom line. Woolard has led the recruitment and onboarding of more than thirty highly skilled aides, including creating the first PRN (Pro Re Nata, or “as the need arises”) pool of caregivers, significantly expanding service capacity and enhancing flexibility in meeting last-minute care requests. Under her leadership, overtime costs have been reduced by 3.2%, and staff availability to cover shifts increased by 16%, improving overall service reliability.
Woolard improved staff empowerment by implementing self-scheduling through the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, increasing employee satisfaction and retention. With her guidance, resident satisfaction has increased by 90%. Her commitment to excellence and innovation continues to shape Goodwin Home Care. Through her vision and dedication, she ensures that older adults receive the highest quality of care while fostering a supportive and empowered team environment.
“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive the Employee of the Year award,” said Woolard. “It’s truly humbling to be recognized in this way. I’ve always focused on doing my best and contributing to the success of the team, so receiving this recognition is both rewarding and motivating. I didn’t expect to receive this award. It came as a surprise, but it’s a reminder that hard work and commitment are valued, and it encourages me to continue striving for excellence. I’m thankful for the opportunity to lead such a talented group here in Goodwin Home Care, and I’m excited for what we can and will achieve together moving forward.”
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