The Alabama Nursing Home Association recognized five outstanding long term care professionals as the inaugural recipients of the ANHA Leaders in Long Term Care Awards during the association’s 75th Anniversary Celebration & Awards Ceremony on September 24 in Montgomery.

Launched in 2026 as part of ANHA’s 75th anniversary, the Leaders in Long Term Care Awards were created to recognize individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, dedication and service to residents, families, colleagues and Alabama’s long term care profession.

The 2026 Leaders in Long Term Care Award recipients are:

Noble Caregiver Award: Twani Russell, John Knox Manor
Since 1997, Twani Russell has been a familiar, trusted presence at John Knox Manor—caring for residents and, years later, even their children. Known affectionately as “Tweety,” she checks on every resident daily and spends her own time taking them shopping, visiting favorite restaurants or providing special comforts, making sure each person feels remembered, valued and loved.

Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year: LuShawn Gibbs, Bridgeway Health & Rehab Center
LuShawn Gibbs is the CNA others turn to—whether a new caregiver needs training, a coworker needs a helping hand or a resident needs extra attention. As Bridgeway’s lead CNA, she has helped shape countless caregivers while remaining deeply connected to residents and families. Her calm presence, experienceand willingness to serve have made her a trusted mentor throughout the facility.

Nurse Leader of the Year: Jackie Giles, Washington County Hospital and Nursing Home
For 29 years, Jackie Giles has led nursing at Washington County while staying personally connected to those she serves. She rounds with every resident each month, keeps an open door for residents and families, and even stocks favorite treats for regular visitors to her office. Jackie knows residents’ fears and comforts—and makes sure her staff knows them, too.

Assisted Living Leader of the Year: Jennifer Cambron, Cherokee Village
Jennifer Cambron began her long term care career as a CNA 26 years ago, working her way through nursing and leadership roles to become an administrator. She believes residents should continue having new adventures, inspiring outings to aquariums, fairs and waterfalls through “Laughter is the Best Medicine.” Jennifer’s own journey shapes how she develops employees and creates meaningful experiences for residents.

Skilled Nursing Facility Leader of the Year: Libby Alford, Schmidt Wallace Healthcare
For more than 40 years, Libby Alford has taught generations of long term care leaders how to balance empathy with accountability while preserving people’s dignity. From helping turn around a decertified facility in 1986 to mentoring administrators across Alabama, Libby has remained guided by one principle: “You never make budget by not taking care of the residents.”

The inaugural program received an impressive response from across Alabama, reflecting the many dedicated professionals making a difference in long term care throughout the state. Nominations were evaluated through a blind judging process, with three finalists selected in each of the five categories before the recipients were announced during the September 24 ceremony.

ANHA congratulates the five inaugural award recipients, as well as all of the finalists and nominees whose work reflects the commitment to quality care and service found throughout Alabama’s long term care community.

The awards were presented as part of ANHA’s 75th Anniversary Celebration & Awards Ceremony during the 2026 ANHA Annual Convention & Trade Show at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa.