Anna "Liza" Casabay received an award for her work at Kula Hospital. Photo courtesy

The Healthcare Association of Hawaii has awarded the 2025 Professional With Heart Healthcare Hero Award to Kula Hospital registered nurse Anna “Liza” Casabay.

The award honors healthcare professionals who demonstrate high performance standards in challenging situations, outstanding clinical skills, and a consistent commitment to service with heart.

Casabay’s prestigious statewide honor is given to an individual for exceptional dedication to compassionate, high-quality care.

Casabay was praised for her meticulous attention to detail, her leadership as a former Unit Nurse Manager, and her ability to foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.

“Liza is an exemplary professional whose dedication to our clients and families is unmatched,” said Kristina Wilson, long-term care nurse manager, who nominated her for the award.

“Her compassion, clinical excellence, and team spirit make her a true Healthcare Hero.”

Casabay, who has worked at Kula Hospital for 32 years, was recognized alongside other awardees from across Hawaii at a gala held on Oct. 25 at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel on Oʻahu.

She was joined at the event by her husband, son, and daughter, who celebrated this milestone achievement with her.

The Healthcare Association of Hawaiʻi’s annual Healthcare Heroes awards celebrate extraordinary individuals across the state who go above and beyond in delivering compassionate, high-quality care.

Each year, honorees are selected from a wide range of healthcare roles–including nurses, physicians, therapists, and support staff–based on nominations from patients, families, and colleagues.

The awards are presented at a formal gala, recognizing the vital contributions of professionals to Hawaiʻi’s health and well-being.