Three Trinity Health Of New England colleagues have been honored with the 2026 Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) Healthcare Heroes Award, recognizing exceptional contributions to patient care and community service across Connecticut hospitals.

The CHA Healthcare Heroes Award, presented annually since 2002 as part of the association's Annual Meeting, celebrates outstanding health care workers for their contributions both to their field and to the community. This year's cohort represented all types of care from every corner of the state. Recipients received a certificate from CHA and a proclamation from the Office of Governor Ned Lamont recognizing their leadership.

Manuel Rodriguez, Jr. serves on the Environmental Services (EVS) and Operating Room (OR) teams at Saint Francis Hospital, where he has earned recognition as a Team Leader known for humble leadership, respect, and a commitment to patient and colleague safety. He has been credited with building a family-like atmosphere within the Main OR.

Erin Miller, RT(R)(CT), has served as Manager of Radiology and Respiratory at Johnson Memorial Hospital for nine years, overseeing operations at both the hospital and the S. Prestley and Helen Blake Ambulatory Care Center in Enfield. Over the past year, she has managed significant growth in imaging volumes driven by higher inpatient acuity, increased ambulatory demand, and tighter clinical turnaround expectations.

Stephanie Nelson, MSN, RN, began her career at Saint Mary's Hospital as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse in 2008 and later became Director of Safety, Quality and Performance Improvement. In 2025, she was named Clinical Director of Quality and Patient Safety for Community Hospitals, Trinity Health Of New England, a role in which she works to foster a culture where safety is shared and excellence is expected.

Trinity Health Of New England operates Saint Francis Hospital, Johnson Memorial Hospital, and Saint Mary's Hospital, serving patients and communities across Connecticut through a range of inpatient, ambulatory, and specialty care services.