2026 Outstanding Community Health Nominees
We’re celebrating a record-breaking 27 outstanding healthcare champions at the 21st Annual Black Cat Ball! Learn more about them below!
Hollie Alexander, MSN, RN, NHA, WCC
Hollie Alexander leads with compassion, integrity, and a servant's heart. As Administrator of The Legacy Living & Rehabilitation Center, she has strengthened resident care by fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement while mentoring staff and empowering future healthcare leaders.
Her commitment to our community extends beyond The Legacy through her service with the Alzheimer's Association, helping raise awareness and support for individuals and families affected by dementia.
Dedicated to lifelong learning, Hollie continues to advance long-term care through leadership, education, and innovative, person-centered practices that improve the lives of residents every day.
Jacklyn Baker, APRN, FNP-C
Jacklyn Baker, APRN, FNP-C, owner of Routine Aesthetics and Wellness, began her healthcare journey at Campbell County Health in 2013. She has grown through many roles across healthcare, including childcare, patient access, emergency services, clinical care, and nurse practitioner practice. Today, she leads Routine Aesthetics and Wellness with a vision of making wellness and self-care a meaningful part of everyday healthcare.
Through her leadership and innovation, Routine has grown to serve more than 2,000 clients and has created a team dedicated to providing patient-centered wellness services. Jacklyn leads with compassion, excellence, and a commitment to supporting both her patients and fellow professionals.
Her dedication extends beyond her practice through community involvement and initiatives like Paint Gillette Pink’s 2025 Spa Day Give-A-Way, helping support awareness and connection throughout our community.
Jacklyn’s commitment to continued learning, evidence-based care, and expanding access to innovative healthcare services reflects the passion and dedication that make a lasting difference.
Amanda Balo, CCMA, LMRT
As a Gillette native, Amanda Balo has dedicated her career to caring for the people around her. From her beginnings as a CNA at age 18 to her current role supporting orthopedic care and radiology services, she has continued to grow her knowledge and skills while keeping patients at the center of everything she does as a Medical Assistant and X-Ray Technologist at The McGinley Clinic in Gillette.
Amanda is a passionate advocate who ensures patients feel seen, heard, and supported throughout their healthcare journey. She leads with compassion, strengthens her team through encouragement and collaboration, and consistently steps forward to help find solutions when challenges arise.
Beyond her professional role, Amanda gives back through advocacy for Spina Bifida and Chiari Malformation awareness, blood and plasma donations, and mobile phlebotomy services when needed. Her dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth—including exploring future opportunities in MSK ultrasound and radiologic technology—reflects her commitment to providing the highest quality care.
Briana Castillo, MA
Briana Castillo, MA, Registered Medical Assistant with Campbell County Medical Group Main Clinic leads with compassion, positivity, and a commitment to making those around her feel supported. As a Clinical Supervisor, she prioritizes building strong relationships with her team, creating a culture of encouragement, teamwork, and connection.
Her passion for serving others extends far beyond the clinic. Briana organized a team effort that provided 100 hygiene bags for Kitchen Cutz, bringing coworkers together to support neighbors in need. She also continues to give back through community involvement, including supporting the Visitation and Advocacy Center and organizing efforts to uplift colleagues during challenging times.
Briana’s healthcare journey reflects determination and lifelong dedication to learning. From starting in nutrition services to becoming a CNA, Mental Health Technician, Certified Medical Assistant, and clinical leader, she has continually expanded her skills to better serve patients, families, and her community.
Valarie Cook, RN
For more than 20 years, Valarie Cook, RN, Radiation Oncology Nurse at Campbell County Health, has cared for oncology patients with skill, compassion, and a deep commitment to making a difficult journey a little easier. She leads by example—listening, advocating, finding solutions, and ensuring patients have access to the resources they need beyond medical care, including support with lodging, food, transportation, and emotional needs.
Valarie’s service extends throughout our community. She has organized donation efforts for patients in need, supported the Festival of Trees for many years, and continues to give her time and talents to her coworkers, patients, church, and community.
Her dedication to professional growth is equally inspiring. Valarie has earned certifications through the Oncology Nursing Society, including Biochemotherapy Handling and Radiation Oncology certifications, and recently achieved Patient Navigator Certification through the American Cancer Society. She also contributes to the future of cancer care through her involvement with the Wyoming Cancer Coalition Prevention and Screening Group.
Dr. Scott Diering
Dr. Scott Diering, Urgent Care Provider, leads with humility, kindness, and a genuine commitment to the people around him. Known for his calm presence and willingness to listen, he takes time to support patients and colleagues alike—often going beyond expectations to follow up with patients and ensure they feel cared for.
His commitment to community extends beyond the clinic through outreach, including speaking with local groups and volunteering as a physician for Rocky Mountain Honor Flights, supporting Wyoming veterans on meaningful journeys to Washington, D.C.
Dr. Diering’s dedication to professional growth and improving healthcare reaches far beyond his practice. He authored “Love Your Patients!”, sharing strategies to strengthen patient relationships and bedside care, and continues to educate future healthcare providers as a professor with the International University of Health Sciences.
Lori Dougherty, DMFT, LMFT, LPC, LAT
Access to mental health care often starts with someone who is willing to go further—and Lori Dougherty has built her entire career around doing just that.
As Clinical Director and owner of Step Stone Counseling, Lori provides compassionate, evidence-based mental health and addiction services while also leading a growing clinical team. She is known for her hands-on leadership, often maintaining a full client caseload while supervising staff, mentoring emerging clinicians, and expanding services to meet community needs.
Her impact extends well beyond the clinic. Lori regularly provides mental health education and suicide prevention outreach, helps clients navigate barriers like insurance and basic needs support, and has even organized food pantry resources for individuals and families in crisis. She also serves on the Hope Source Committee, helping expand access to mental health care across the community.
Brittany Farella, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT
Helping our community move, heal, and thrive is Brittany Farella’s passion at CORE 307 Physical Therapy.
She leads by sharing her knowledge—educating patients, mentoring future healthcare professionals, and inspiring others through her passion for physical therapy.
Beyond the clinic, she gives back by coaching youth sports, supporting local fundraisers, and providing injury prevention education for the hardworking people who keep our community moving.
Her commitment to specialized training and continuing education ensures patients across Northeast Wyoming receive exceptional, evidence-based care close to home. Brittany's leadership, service, and dedication are making a lasting difference in the health of our community.
Noah Forrey, PA
Outstanding healthcare isn't just about treating patients—it's about serving people wherever they're needed.
As a physician assistant at Black Hills Orthopedic & Spine Center of Wyoming, Noah Forrey is known for his compassionate care, taking the time to truly listen to patients and ensuring they receive the attention they deserve. His commitment to continuous learning helps him provide the highest quality care to our community.
Beyond the clinic, Noah invests in the next generation by coaching youth cross country, volunteering with the In Memory of the 8 committee to raise awareness about impaired driving, and helping provide scholarships for young runners.
Kyle Graves, PT, DPT
Gillette native. Air Force veteran. Mentor. Compassionate healer.
After serving as a U.S. Air Force medic, Kyle Graves returned home to Northeast Wyoming with one goal: to help his community live healthier, stronger lives.
As a physical therapist at Hand & Physical Therapy of Wyoming, Kyle is known for his expertise, individualized care, and commitment to helping patients overcome pain, recover from injuries, and regain their quality of life. He also mentors future physical therapists, continually pursues advanced training, and gives back through local veterans' events and fundraising efforts.
Bonnie Green
For 45 years, Bonnie Green has been a cornerstone of advanced imaging and compassionate care in our community.
One of Gillette’s first registered MRI technologists, Bonnie helped bring cutting-edge diagnostic services close to home—developing local protocols for full-body MRI and prostate imaging, and expanding access to specialized breast MRI at Elevation Medical Imaging. But her impact goes far beyond technology.
She has mentored local students pursuing healthcare careers, supported colleagues and providers with trusted expertise, and even quietly helped students personally as they navigated college. Patients consistently describe her as the calm in the room—someone who makes even the most anxious feel safe, heard, and cared for.
After a lifetime of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to patients in Gillette and Campbell County, Bonnie’s legacy is one of both clinical excellence and deep human connection.
Rachel Helms, PNP
For more than a decade, Rachel Helms has been dedicated to the health and well-being of children across our community.
As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Big Horn Pediatrics and Family Medicine, Rachel provides compassionate care for patients from infancy through young adulthood—diagnosing illness, creating treatment plans, and supporting families through every stage of care with education and guidance.
Beyond the clinic, Rachel strengthens the future of healthcare by serving as a preceptor for nurse practitioner and physician assistant students for the past 12 years, helping train the next generation of providers. She also gives back to the community through volunteer work at the local soup kitchen, participation in the Child Protection Team with the Department of Family Services, and coaching youth sports.
Kelli “Chipper” Hill
Leadership in senior care is built on trust, relationships, and a deep commitment to community—and Kelli “Chipper” Hill embodies all three.
As Executive Director of Primrose Retirement Community of Gillette, Chipper has helped transform the community over nearly a decade of leadership. Through intentional relationship-building, collaboration, and persistence, she helped grow occupancy from limited capacity to nearly 90 residents calling Primrose home—creating a vibrant community where seniors can truly thrive.
Her leadership is rooted in listening, empowering her team, and fostering a culture of accountability, compassion, and continuous improvement for both residents and staff.
Beyond her work at Primrose, Chipper is actively engaged in the broader community through service with the Alzheimer’s Association Wyoming Chapter, American Legion Post 42 Auxiliary, the local senior coalition, and the Chamber of Commerce.
Chelsea Jenner
Chelsea Jenner, Campbell County Health Rehabilitation Services Director, is defined by compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to helping others succeed. As Director, she leads a multidisciplinary team providing therapy services across Campbell and Crook counties, creating an environment where staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to provide exceptional care.
Beyond her professional role, Chelsea gives back to our community through coaching youth basketball, volunteering with her daughters’ Catholic school activities, and representing CCH Rehab at community events. Her dedication extends into her continued professional growth as a physical therapist, staying current through ongoing education and advancements in evidence-based care.
Chelsea’s commitment to her team, her patients, and the communities she serves reflects the heart of outstanding healthcare.
Jessica Long, PTA
Jessica Long, PTA, Community Health Liaison with Healing Hearts x SYMBII Health, combines clinical care with advocacy, outreach, and innovation to help patients and families receive the support they need. Through her work connecting healthcare providers, community partners, and patients, she has helped expand awareness and access to home health services—allowing more individuals to remain safe, independent, and supported in their homes.
Her commitment to service began early in her healthcare journey as a CNA supporting hospice and community members and continues today through her work as a healthcare advocate, mentor, and community leader. Jessica also gives back through local involvement, including her service as Miss College Campbell County and Miss Campbell County.
Jessica’s dedication to professional growth has led her to expand beyond direct patient care into healthcare education, provider relations, business development, and community outreach. Her innovative approach to bridging gaps in healthcare was recognized through her invitation to attend the Forbes 30 Under 30 Summit in 2026.
Dr. Alexandra McClenahan
Leadership in rural healthcare means seeing the whole person—and strengthening the whole system around them.
Dr. Alexandra McClenahan serves as a family physician and Medical Director for Campbell County Health clinics in Gillette, Hulett, and Wright. She is known for her compassionate, patient-centered care, taking time to ensure patients feel heard, understood, and supported in every step of their health journey.
Beyond the exam room, Dr. McClenahan leads efforts to strengthen rural healthcare access through program development, clinical innovation, and mentorship of healthcare teams across multiple disciplines. She is deeply committed to improving preventive care, chronic disease management, and expanding services closer to home for families across Northeast Wyoming.
Her nominators consistently highlight her humility, dedication, and ability to combine strong clinical leadership with genuine compassion for both patients and colleagues.
Leona McGraw
For more than 35 years, Leona McGraw has been a steady, compassionate presence for youth and families at YES House—helping shape a culture of care, safety, and hope that has impacted generations.
As Boys Residential Treatment Coordinator, she leads with calm strength, consistency, and deep compassion. Leona supports staff training and coordination while also showing up every day for the young people in her care—offering stability, guidance, and encouragement to youth facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
Her impact extends far beyond the workplace. Leona has spent decades serving youth through YES House and volunteering in the community through Sunday School and youth group leadership, reflecting a lifelong commitment to helping young people feel seen, supported, and valued.
Thank you, Leona, for 35+ years of unwavering dedication to Wyoming’s youth and families.
Ashley McRae, MS, PPC, ICAADA CPS
Ashley McRae, MS, PPC, ICAADA CPS, represents the heart of compassionate community care through her dedication to mental health, suicide prevention, and helping others find hope during life’s most difficult moments.
As Executive Director of Campbell County Suicide Awareness & Prevention and a counselor at Free Indeed Counseling, Ashley leads with empathy, purpose, and a commitment to building a stronger, more connected community. She works behind the scenes every day to support individuals and families in crisis, while also bringing people together through education, advocacy, and community partnerships.
Her dedication to professional growth is evident through extensive training and certifications in suicide prevention, crisis response, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based counseling practices. She continually expands her knowledge so she can better serve those who trust her with their stories.
Through leadership, service, and a passion for breaking down barriers around mental health, Ashley is helping create a community where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to seek help.
Kiley Myers, LCSW
True leadership is stepping up when it matters most—and lifting others as you go.
Kiley Myers, Clinical Director at YES House, has dedicated her career to supporting youth and families facing some of the greatest challenges in our community. Since joining YES House in 2020, she has grown into a leadership role overseeing clinical services, mentoring therapists and interns, and ensuring that youth receive consistent, compassionate care—even during times of critical staffing shortages.
Her commitment extends beyond direct care through her work building strong community partnerships and creating pathways to develop the next generation of mental health professionals.
Andrew Nielsen, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS
Andrew Nielsen, owner of Rehab Solutions, has helped transform the landscape of physical therapy and sports performance care in Northeast Wyoming through his vision, innovation, and commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, Rehab Solutions has grown to three locations with a team of 22 therapists, expanding access to advanced rehabilitation services and bringing specialized care closer to home.
Beyond his professional achievements, Andrew is deeply committed to serving his community. Through programs like cancer rehabilitation, athlete development opportunities, and ongoing support of local schools, organizations, and community initiatives, he continues to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of those around him.
Andrew’s dedication to professional growth is equally inspiring. As a Board-Certified Sports Clinical Specialist and advocate for continued education, he has built a culture focused on advanced training, patient-centered care, and raising the standard of healthcare across Wyoming.
Dr. Jacob Parmley
Great healthcare leadership is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and a deep respect for every person served.
Dr. Jacob Parmley, Medical Director at The Legacy Living & Rehabilitation Center and CCMG Family Practice, is known for his resident-centered approach to care. He leads with humility and teamwork, encouraging staff at every level to collaborate, ask questions, and continuously improve the care experience for patients and residents across rural Northeast Wyoming.
At The Legacy, he is especially recognized for honoring each resident’s individual goals and quality of life—ensuring care decisions reflect not just medical needs, but personal wishes and dignity. His leadership has strengthened both clinical care and the culture of support among staff and providers.
Dr. Parmley is also committed to lifelong learning and advancing rural healthcare through ongoing education, mentorship, and thoughtful program development.
Rachael Peterson, MSN, RN
Rachael Peterson, MSN, RN, CEO and Owner of Kindred Souls of Wyoming, LLC, saw a need for more accessible home health services in Northeast Wyoming and took action by creating Kindred Souls of Wyoming—a resource helping elderly, homebound, and rural residents receive professional, compassionate care in the comfort of their own homes.
Her leadership has strengthened healthcare access in our community, especially during times of need. When more than 50 local clients suddenly needed a new home health provider, Rachael and her team stepped up to ensure continuity of care, coordinating services quickly while keeping patients’ safety and well-being at the center.
Beyond her work in healthcare, Rachael serves her community through the Gillette Rotary Club and continues to advocate for individuals and families who need support. Her commitment to lifelong learning is reflected in her Master of Science in Nursing, continued professional education, and dedication to improving home-based care throughout Wyoming.
Caity Riggs, RN
Exceptional healthcare is built by people who lead with compassion, serve with purpose, and put others first.
For 13 years, Caity Riggs has cared for patients in our community while also supporting her fellow healthcare professionals. As a nurse and manager at Thunder Basin Orthopedics, she is known for leading by example, strengthening teamwork, and always striving to improve the patient experience. Beyond the clinic, she continues to give back through her service on the Paint Gillette Pink committee, helping raise funds and awareness for local cancer patients and their families.
Dr. Holly Schamber, DDS
Leadership in healthcare is more than a title—it’s a lifelong commitment to service, advocacy, and community impact.
Dr. Holly Schamber of Powder River Dental has dedicated her career to strengthening both dentistry and the Gillette community. A leader at the local, state, and national levels, she has served as Past President of the Wyoming Dental Association and is one of Wyoming’s delegates to the American Dental Association. She also supports several community organizations, including the Gillette College Foundation, Early Head Start Advisory Committee, her church leadership council, and local Rotary efforts.
Beyond leadership roles, Dr. Schamber and her team regularly give back through school-based dental screenings and community outreach, helping ensure children receive the care they need.
Her commitment to advancing dental care through continuing education and advocacy reflects a deep dedication to patients and the profession across Wyoming.
Raquel Sprigg, RMA, LMRT
Raquel Sprigg, RMA, LMRT, Registered Medical Assistant with Wyoming Medical Associates, leads with kindness, patience, and a commitment to helping others succeed. Through her work supporting patients, providers, and surgical teams, she creates an environment where people feel safe, respected, and cared for. Her ability to coordinate complex details behind the scenes helps ensure patients receive exceptional care.
Her commitment to community is reflected in every patient interaction. Raquel goes beyond providing care—she builds trust, listens, and helps patients feel valued during important moments in their healthcare journey.
Raquel’s dedication to professional growth is equally inspiring. She continually seeks opportunities to improve healthcare delivery and has contributed to program development, including helping implement an IV hydration program. Her passion for learning, innovation, and excellence strengthens both her team and the patients she serves.
CCMH Front Desk Team
This trio is often the first faces patients and visitors see when they walk into Campbell County Memorial Hospital: Customer Assistants Kelvin Glaser and Donna Taylor, and volunteer Robin Bailey. Together, they create a welcoming healthcare experience for every person who walks through the doors.
Kelvin, Donna, and Robin embody compassion, kindness, and servant leadership. They go above and beyond greeting guests, providing guidance, support, and reassurance during important moments. Their willingness to step in, including assisting patients who need help getting to their vehicles, demonstrates their commitment to both patients and their healthcare team.
Their impact extends far beyond the hospital. Kelvin has spent decades serving the Gillette community through local events, sports, blood drives, Relay for Life, and other community initiatives. Donna brings years of service, encouragement, and compassion through her work in the community and at CCH. Robin’s dedication as a volunteer includes more than 5,750 hours of service since 2014, supporting CCH, The Legacy, and other community organizations.
Hand & Physical Therapy of Wyoming & Pivot Prosthetics & Orthotics Patient Collaboration
Great healthcare happens when compassionate professionals come together to change lives.
Through an extraordinary partnership for their patients, the teams at Hand & Physical Therapy of Wyoming and Pivot Prosthetics and Orthotics are bringing advanced prosthetic technology and specialized rehabilitation to Northeast Wyoming. By combining expertise, innovation, and personalized care, they've helped patients with upper-extremity amputations regain independence, confidence, and hope—without having to leave their community for ongoing care.
Their patient collaboration is a powerful reminder that when healthcare providers work together, lives are transformed.