Candle Light Cove’s Melinda Dennis-Wheatley Honored as ‘Exceptional Caregiver’
EASTON, Md. — Candle Light Cove team member Melinda Dennis-Wheatley has been named one of six national winners of the 2025 National Ceca Award, recognizing exceptional caregivers across the United States.
Ceca Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to recognizing and supporting healthcare workers and senior living professionals, presented the honor to Dennis-Wheatley, a certified nursing assistant at Candle Light Cove, during a reception on March 17 at the senior living community in Easton.
“Eleven years ago, Melinda and I started working together,” said Larry Rouvelas, CEO of IntegraCare, which operates Candle Light Cove. “I have watched her patiently hold the hand of a resident, guiding her through the hallway. I’ve seen her pull aside a new team member to coach them toward the Candle Light Cove way. She has earned her colleagues’ respect for her skill, dedication, and ethical north-star. I’m honored to work with her.”
As a National Ceca Award recipient, Dennis-Wheatley received a cash award of $2,500 and an engraved commemorative trophy. Ceca President Nate Hamme presented the award along with IntegraCare leadership, Candle Light Cove administrators and team members.
“The best part of our work is getting to read the inspiring stories of amazing caregivers around the country,” Ceca’s Hamme said. “Melinda exhibits a great dedication to the residents, families and team members at Candle Light Cove, ensuring that she brings her best self to work each day. This approach to caregiving has an incredibly positive influence on the community.”
This is the 12th year the National Ceca Awards have been presented.
“We’re proud to have Ceca Partners like IntegraCare that are committed to fostering a culture of gratitude where we can honor caregivers like Melinda with the awards and recognition they deserve,” Hamme said.
Colleagues and residents say her quiet dedication and consistent kindness set Dennis-Wheatley apart.
“Melinda has always displayed generosity, integrity and reliability at Candle Light Cove. Every day she gives 110%,” said Jesstina Brice-Taylor, administrative services director. “She has a pleasant personality and outlook in every situation. She always goes above and beyond for the residents. She is truly a gem.”
Dennis-Wheatley’s positive attitude and willingness to help others make a difference not only for residents, but also for fellow team members, including three of her sisters who also work at the senior living community.
“Melinda always comes to work with a positive attitude,” said Kataya Murray, Resident Wellness Director. “She faces all situations in a calm manner and is always willing to help others.”
“She was very kind and inclusive to reach out to me as a new employee and she helped make me feel welcomed. She is very respectful,” added LifeStages Associate Angie Glass.
Grace Lyons, community relations director, said while Dennis-Wheatley might prefer to avoid the spotlight, her quiet presence and gentle approach speak volumes.
“She doesn’t just care for our residents’ physical needs,” Lyons said. “She also tends to their emotional and spiritual wellbeing with a gentleness that leaves a lasting impact.”
“With every calm word and every thoughtful gesture, she brings comfort, peace and connection to those in her care,” Lyons added. “Her soft-spoken nature and gentle touch create a sense of safety and trust that our residents deeply feel, even if they can’t always express it. She sees the whole person — heart, mind and soul — and meets each day with quiet grace and unwavering compassion.”
Others echoed that Dennis-Wheatley consistently goes beyond what is expected.
“Melinda expresses a sense of compassion and dedication beyond her job for the residents, staff and family members. She goes above and beyond the call of duty,” said Hospitality Associate Wanda Dabney.
Dennis-Wheatley’s recognition as a National Ceca Award winner highlights the profound impact compassionate caregivers have on the lives of those they serve. For residents, families and fellow team members at Candle Light Cove, her steady presence, kindness and commitment have long made her an invaluable part of the community. Now, her dedication is being celebrated on a national stage.
About Ceca
Ceca is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., that partners with care communities nationally of all sizes to recognize exceptional caregivers. Ceca’s mission is to improve the human experience in healthcare by providing a highly affordable, turnkey recognition solution tailored to care providers, using its innovative software, network, managed services and cash awards. Founded by Matthew and Rosemary Lawlor in 2013, Ceca has publicly recognized over 55,000 exceptional acts of care and more than 1,700 caregivers have received a Ceca Award. To date, Ceca has awarded nearly $615,000 to deserving caregivers. For more information, watch a brief video and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. To schedule an interview with one of our award recipients, contact Michelle Stewart.
About Candle Light Cove
Candle Light Cove, an IntegraCare community in Easton, Maryland, offers a full spectrum of senior living options tailored to meet individual needs, preferences and lifestyles. The senior living community provides assisted living, memory care or respite care, giving our residents and their family members with comfort, connection and peace of mind.
Media Contacts:
Ceca Foundation
Michelle Stewart
Chief Operating Officer
202-804-4275
Candle Light Cove
Grace Lyons
Community Relations Director
410-770-9707
