Bon Secours Hampton Roads is proud to announce that two of its team members have been honored in the Inside Business Health Care Heroes Awards. This annual event recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations making significant contributions to health care across Hampton Roads. This year, 19 individuals and teams were celebrated for their dedication and innovative approaches in the health care sector. Among these honorees, Bon Secours is thrilled to recognize Phyllita Bolden and Dr. Michele Nedelka for their exceptional contributions.
Award: Community Health
Honoree: Phyllita Bolden, Community Health Director for Bon Secours Hampton Roads
Phyllita Bolden was honored for her outstanding work in addressing food insecurity and promoting holistic wellness in the region. Under her leadership, the Community Health Hub and its initiatives, such as the Healthy Food Pantry, served over 13,440 people in 2023. Bolden’s outreach efforts include cooking demonstrations, SNAP enrollment assistance, and the Care-A-Van, a mobile unit serving uninsured patients and tackling health care disparities.
Bolden’s collaborative efforts with local organizations have fostered community engagement through mental health walks, community gardening, and other wellness activities. She plans to expand these programs further in the coming year, aiming to reach more individuals and enhance the community's well-being.
Bolden shared her motivation, stating, "Making a tangible, positive impact on individuals' lives and health in the community keeps me motivated. Building strong relationships with community members and stakeholders is deeply rewarding."
Award: Physician — Radiation Oncology
Honoree: Dr. Michele Nedelka, Medical Director for Oncology Services
Dr. Nedelka was recognized for her dedication to advancing radiation oncology and advocating for patients' rights and safety in Virginia. As the first woman to serve as speaker of the House of Delegates for the Medical Society of Virginia, Dr. Nedelka champions initiatives to improve health care accessibility and affordability.
Specializing in treating various cancers, Dr. Nedelka is also committed to nurturing the next generation of health care professionals through her extensive publications in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, Dr. Nedelka’s in-office food pantry initiative exemplifies her commitment to holistic patient care, ensuring that patients have the support they need during their treatment.
Dr. Nedelka highlights the importance of empathy and resilience in health care, stating, "Empathy and compassion are as critical as clinical expertise. Every patient is unique, and it’s essential to provide personalized care that addresses their specific needs."
Award: Community Health
Honoree: Phyllita Bolden, Community Health Director for Bon Secours Hampton Roads
Phyllita Bolden was honored for her outstanding work in addressing food insecurity and promoting holistic wellness in the region. Under her leadership, the Community Health Hub and its initiatives, such as the Healthy Food Pantry, served over 13,440 people in 2023. Bolden’s outreach efforts include cooking demonstrations, SNAP enrollment assistance, and the Care-A-Van, a mobile unit serving uninsured patients and tackling health care disparities.
Bolden’s collaborative efforts with local organizations have fostered community engagement through mental health walks, community gardening, and other wellness activities. She plans to expand these programs further in the coming year, aiming to reach more individuals and enhance the community's well-being.
Bolden shared her motivation, stating, "Making a tangible, positive impact on individuals' lives and health in the community keeps me motivated. Building strong relationships with community members and stakeholders is deeply rewarding."
Award: Physician — Radiation Oncology
Honoree: Dr. Michele Nedelka, Medical Director for Oncology Services
Dr. Nedelka was recognized for her dedication to advancing radiation oncology and advocating for patients' rights and safety in Virginia. As the first woman to serve as speaker of the House of Delegates for the Medical Society of Virginia, Dr. Nedelka champions initiatives to improve health care accessibility and affordability.
Specializing in treating various cancers, Dr. Nedelka is also committed to nurturing the next generation of health care professionals through her extensive publications in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, Dr. Nedelka’s in-office food pantry initiative exemplifies her commitment to holistic patient care, ensuring that patients have the support they need during their treatment.
Dr. Nedelka highlights the importance of empathy and resilience in health care, stating, "Empathy and compassion are as critical as clinical expertise. Every patient is unique, and it’s essential to provide personalized care that addresses their specific needs."