John Carter, a familiar face to many at Akron Children’s, is retiring after 26 years of service.
John Carter has been a beloved employee of Akron Children’s since 1999. On Aug. 1 he retires after 26 years. When John first came to Akron Children’s he worked in food services and then transitioned to the linen department and eventually security.
“Before visitor monitors transitioned to the volunteer and visitor services team, we worked under the security department,” John said. “Our titles were later changed to guest attendants.”
While greeting patients, families and visitors and helping them find their way, John also keeps a watchful eye for anything out of the ordinary.
“I always keep my eye out for any suspicious activity,” he said.
For 17 years of his employment, John has been a steady face to people visiting the Considine Professional Building. In January, his post moved to the Atrium lobby near the bridge connector —bringing his warm welcome to an even busier spot. On any given 8-hour shift, John greets between 75 and 100 people — a testament to the many lives he’s touched during his tenure.
Vicki Parisi, director of Volunteer and Visitor Services, said John’s calming presence and quiet confidence has had a tremendous impact on patients and staff.
“Over the years, John has been a steady presence at the desk — reliable, positive and compassionate,” she said. “He never hesitates to step in when a patient family needs help. John is a trusted member of our team, and returning families look forward to seeing him.”
One instance of John’s willingness to go above and beyond was during COVID when the hospital was short-staffed.
“John stayed and made sure the desk was covered, an example of his dedication to the team and our patients,” Vicki said.
Though John officially joined Akron Children’s in 1999, his connection to the hospital began much earlier.
“I was born with cerebral palsy, and I had to have a number of orthopedic surgeries to my heel tendon here through the years,” he said. “I would sometimes spend 1-2 weeks here after my surgeries.
“I had to sleep in uncomfortable leg braces with heavy shoes, which made it hard to rest,” he added. “But I’ve never let my condition stop me or hold me back from what I wanted to do.”
And what he wants to do in his retirement is travel to warm climates and spend more time with his sisters who live nearby and his many nieces and nephews.
“I play the piano and xylophone, so I’m looking forward to having more practice time so I can get better,” he said. “I like to play jazz music and would love to join a band someday.”
When asked what advice he would give a new employee just joining Akron Children’s, John’s advice was simple.
“Be friendly and approachable, be punctual and do your job well,” he said.
And those qualities sum up what Vicki will miss most about John.
“John’s genuine kindness has made a lasting impact,” she said. “The desk won’t be the same without him.”
