Mary received the “Luminary” award at the Oct. 1 Akron Children’s More childhood, please.™ Awards, honoring her dedication to the Akron Children’s Holiday Tree Festival. The yearly event means more to Mary than just raising funds for Akron Children’s. It’s a community treasure – and her happy place. Mary’s love for kids leads her to […]
Hospital Updates
The end of an era: Jean Christopher reflects on her career at Akron Children’s
The day Jean Christopher began working at Akron Children’s as a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in 2005, she was approached with a “little” project to work on. Twenty years later, this “little” project is continuing to shape central line associated blood stream infections (CLABSI) clinical work not only at Children’s, but around the country. Jean’s […]
Online rewind: Our top YouTube videos of 2025
Inspirational patient stories dominated our 10 most-watched YouTube channel videos for the year. But there were still plenty of views left for our ever-popular Doggie Brigade and our amazing nursing staff. We received more than 4.5 million views in 2025 from children and their families throughout northeast Ohio … and the world. We invite you […]
After 44 years of service, Vicki Parisi reflects on her career at Akron Children’s
When Vicki Parisi walked through the doors of Akron Children’s for a medical assisting internship 44 years ago, she had no idea she’d never leave. Today, as she prepares to retire on Dec. 31, Vicki is reflecting on a career filled with growth, gratitude and countless memories. “I came here for my medical assisting internship, […]
Bernett L. Williams honored with local philanthropy award
On Friday, Nov. 14, Bernett L. Williams, chief engagement officer, received the “Impact Philanthropist” distinction at the inaugural Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards. Eight local philanthropists were recognized at the awards, ranging from youth to memorial philanthropist. The “Impact Philanthropist” award “recognizes an outstanding individual whose acts in the community have transformed their space of […]
Akron Children’s celebrates 32nd anniversary of Children’s Tree of Lights
Akron Children’s Perkins Square Park will light up again this year with thousands of blue and white lights on Friday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. as the Akron Children’s Women’s Board kicks off the holiday season with the annual Children’s Tree of Lights ceremony. The event takes place in the Rehabilitative Services Lobby, near the […]













