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, […]
Hospital Updates
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 […]
Patient experience spotlight: Brea Rosegreen
Each month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an excellent patient experience. Our most recent honoree is Brea Rosegreen, staff nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). She recently received this feedback from a grateful family: We experienced a life-changing event when our beloved (patient name withheld for privacy) suffered severe, life-threatening burns […]
New autism center will help patients reach their full potential
Walk into the Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center, and you can “feel” the soothing and safe environment. The new facility helps the care team work together better and give special support to kids with autism and their families. About the new center Clinicians, patient families and the design team worked together to turn […]
Melody Strait’s award showcases the heart of community health workers
Melody received the first “Akron Children’s Advocate Award” at the 2025 More childhood, please™. Awards held Oct. 1. Although it’s an individual award, Melody shares it with her fellow community health workers (CHWs). “What an honor to be nominated for the Advocate Award. I cried when I found out I won,” she shared. “Most people […]













