After 37 years, Tina Bair is closing the chapter on a remarkable career at Akron Children’s. Tina’s path to nursing was sparked by childhood inspiration and nurtured by career opportunities. And she’s closing it out with one of nursing’s highest honors, being named Akron Children’s 2025 Magnet Nurse of the Year. “My interest in nursing […]
A familiar face says farewell: John Carter retires after 26 years
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 […]
Service with a smile: Sarnetta Bradshaw retires
Sarnetta Bradshaw, surgery aide, finds fulfillment in service both at work and at home. Sarnetta started her journey at Akron Children’s 35 years ago in Environmental Services (EVS) before moving into a surgical aide position in 1999. From her EVS work in the NICU to comforting patients heading to the operating room (OR), Sarnetta’s positive […]
The prescription for a fulfilling career: Julie Prather shares her professional milestones and retirement plans
In 1995, after nearly a decade of honing her skills in adult hospital pharmacies, Julie Prather was ready for a change. While perusing the Akron Beacon Journal’s classified ads on Jan. 22, one ad caught her attention. Children’s Hospital Medical Center of Akron was searching for a pharmacist, and little did Julie know, this opportunity […]
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 […]













