Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 - David Hennis

As the 3rd generation owner/administrator of a business started by his grandmother 78 years ago, David has literally grown up in long term care. Currently he serves as a mentor to his son Brian who is running the business in hopes of one day Brian becoming the fourth generation owner.  David has been a steadfast leader in the profession and in the Association serving countless years on the OHCA Board of Directors and as our President. As President of OHCA, he moved the monthly Board meetings to various parts of the state in order to encourage member attendance and participation. Some of David’s fondest memories were leading a contingent of OHCA professionals, along with leaders from the Academy and AOPHA, as they developed a new reimbursement system for skilled nursing facilities and ICF/IIDs. He was also proud to help spearhead an educational program for family-owned businesses discussing the importance of succession planning in long term care. David was also active on the BELTSS Board, believes he has visited well over 100 nursing facilities throughout our great state, and recalls opening his facilities to members in the area often hosting OHCA district meetings. Other than nursing, David believes he has done nearly every job in a nursing facility—he’s cooked meals, painted, mowed the grass, repaired equipment, mopped the floor—basically anything that needed to be done. He opened Hattie’s House and Pat’s Porch some 10 years ago introducing a new model of small house concept to short-term rehabilitation. David’s day is best when he gets to hug his residents, his staff and yes, even most family members. He gives away his smile freely to all whom he meets! And enjoys to this day roaming the hallways and chatting with residents. A friend once described David as someone who never met a stranger! Every person in the world, to him, is just a friend he hasn’t met yet. Thank you David Hennis for all you have done for our profession and OHCA. We are pleased to recognize you as our 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award honoree!