This spring, we are proud to celebrate an extraordinary wave of recognition for Common Ground Health team members and partners. From community-led initiatives to regional honors, these awards reflect the passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment our colleagues bring to improving health and health equity across our region every day.
Honored as 2026 Women of Distinction
Four inspiring leaders were named 2026 Women of Distinction by Assemblymember Harry Bronson—an honor celebrating women who have made a lasting, positive impact in our community:
- Dina Faticone, Chief Program and Operations Officer, was recognized for her visionary leadership and dedication to uplifting children and families across our region. Through her work, Dina has helped develop programs that expand access to healthy food, supportive services, and safe, trusted community spaces—ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
- Patricia Cathey, Community Wellness Project Coordinator, was honored for her trusted leadership and deep connections to the community. As a liaison between residents and resources, Patricia has led initiatives that expand access to care—especially through her impactful blood pressure programs—bringing critical support to those who need it most.
- Linda Harrell-Davis, owner of Wade & Me Barbershop & Salon and Me Time Massage & Wellness, LLC, is a longtime independent contractor with our Get-It-Done initiative. She was recognized for her entrepreneurship, healthcare advocacy, and generous commitment to giving back. Linda’s work exemplifies the power of trusted community spaces to support well-being.
- We’re also proud to celebrate Sara White Smith, Director of Collective Impact at ROC the Future Alliance and a key partner of our Healthi Kids initiative, who was recognized for her outstanding community service, dedication to educational and public health advocacy, and work improving the lives of children and families across the Rochester region.
Advancing Health Equity and Community Impact
Several additional honors highlight the breadth of leadership and impact across our team:
- Jackie Dozier, Director of Community Health and Well-Being, received a Community Impact Award from the University of Rochester HIV/AIDS Clinical Trials Unit’s Community Advisory Board. This inaugural award celebrates her decades of activism, advocacy, and outreach—including barbershop education initiatives, faith-based engagement, and the creation of A Call to Women of Color, which marks its 20th anniversary in 2026. Jackie’s leadership continues to advance the vision of a world without new HIV infections.
- Melanie Funchess, Director of Mental Health and Wellness, was honored with the Christopher Jones Inspirational Award from Roc the Peace, Inc. Recognized for leading with purpose, compassion, and courage, Melanie’s work reflects a deep commitment to healing, unity, and hope—embodying the spirit of a movement dedicated to uplifting youth and families impacted by violence.
- Wade S. Norwood, Chief Advancement and Government Relations Officer, was named a Social Impact Award recipient as part of the University of Rochester’s Presidential Awards for Inclusive Excellence. This prestigious recognition celebrates leaders who cultivate belonging and opportunity for all. Wade’s decades of service and leadership—locally and statewide—continue to shape systems that are more equitable, responsive, and community-centered.
Celebrating Collective Impact
Each of these recognitions reflects individual excellence and the shared values that define the combined entity of Common Ground Health, Finger Lakes Performing Provider System (FLPPS), and Rochester RHIO: collaboration, trust, equity, and a deep commitment to community well-being.
We are honored to see our team members and partners recognized by community leaders and organizations across the region. Their work inspires us all and strengthens our collective mission to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life.
Please join us in congratulating these remarkable leaders.