Dr. Starla Martinez, pediatric pulmonologist and division director of the Robert T. Stone, MD, Respiratory Center, joined the team at Akron Children’s in July 2000. In her 25 years at the hospital, she’s held different positions, and a lot has changed. But what initially drew her here – the mission and heart of the hospital […]
With a combined 79 years of service, April Sherman and Crystal Cline retire
For the past 10 years, Supervisor April Sherman and Administrative Secretary Crystal Cline have worked side by side in Environmental Services (EVS). From welcoming new staff to managing daily operations, their dedication and hard work is evident in every corner of the hospital. “The EVS workers inspire me every day,” Crystal shared. “It can be […]
From the bedside to the boardroom: Pam Baker to retire after 43 years
In her 43 years at Akron Children’s, Vice President of Nursing Informatics Pam Baker has achieved an impressive list of accomplishments. She’s paved the way in everything from patient care to professional advancement, becoming the first chief nursing information officer in the organization. Pam was also the inaugural recipient of the hospital’s DAISY Lifetime Achievement […]
For Kathy Tomayko, working at Akron Children’s is a family affair
When Peer Review Technician Kathy Tomayko started at Akron Children’s back in 1991, she couldn’t have predicted the pivotal role it would play in her life. In a twist of fate worthy of the big screen, Kathy met her husband Tim, a former facilities project manager who retired in 2020, while both were working here. […]
Caring for the people who care for kids: Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert McGregor retires
Throughout his 12 years at Akron Children’s, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert McGregor helped transform challenges into opportunities for growth. During COVID, Dr. McGregor co-led the Hospital Incident Command System (HICS) at Akron Children’s, working 12- to 15-hour days for weeks. Despite the grueling schedule, supporting the staff and patients was one of his most […]












