Neighbor News
Cheshire Home Celebrates Major Wins at the 77th Annual HCANJ Convention and Expo
Clavijo Named Nurse of the Year, Zeitler Earns Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration Award

Florham Park, NJ – November 6, 2025 – Cheshire Home is proud to announce that two of its dedicated team members were honored at the 77th Annual Health Care Association of New Jersey (HCANJ) Convention and Expo, held October 28–29, 2025, at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City. Executive Director George Zeitler, LNHA, received the distinguished award for Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration, and Nursing Supervisor Luisa Clavijo, RN, BSN, WCC, was named Nurse of the Year.
The HCANJ Convention and Expo is one of New Jersey’s premier events for professionals in long-term care, assisted living, and senior services. The two-day conference brings together facility administrators, nursing leaders, and healthcare professionals from across the state to share best practices, attend educational sessions, and explore innovations showcased on the expansive trade show floor. Each year, HCANJ recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence, leadership, and compassion in the field of long-term care.
As Executive Director, Mr. Zeitler has led Cheshire Home with vision and commitment, encouraging a culture of care, innovation, and inclusion for 34 years. Under his leadership, Cheshire Home continues to expand its programs and community partnerships, empowering residents to achieve greater independence and engagement.
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“I am deeply honored to have been recognized by the HCANJ with the Excellence in Long-Term Care Administration Award. This recognition is not mine alone, it belongs to the entire Cheshire Home Team,” Mr. Zeitler said. “Every day, our staff demonstrates extraordinary dedication, compassion, and professionalism in fulfilling our mission to support adults with physical disabilities in achieving their highest level of independence. This award reflects their unwavering commitment to excellence and the incredible sense of community that defines Cheshire Home.”
Ms. Clavijo has been a vital part of Cheshire Home’s nursing team, known for her compassion, skill, and tireless advocacy for residents with spinal cord injuries and physical disabilities for over 11 years. Her recognition as Nurse of the Year reflects her unwavering dedication to improving quality of life and advancing clinical excellence at Cheshire Home.
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“I feel honored to be recognized as Nurse of the Year,” said Ms. Clavijo. “This award reflects the incredible teamwork, dedication, and compassion of our entire nursing staff. Every day, we have the privilege of supporting residents as they work toward greater independence, and that’s the true reward.”
These distinguished statewide recognitions highlight the highest standards of leadership, professionalism, and compassion in long-term care. To have both awards presented to individuals from the same organization is an extraordinary honor and a true reflection of Cheshire Home’s shared commitment to excellence.
The HCANJ Convention and Expo provided the perfect platform to celebrate these accomplishments while also connecting with industry leaders, exploring new technologies in accessibility and rehabilitation, and reaffirming Cheshire Home’s commitment to excellence.
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About Cheshire Home
Cheshire Home, located in Florham Park, NJ, is the only Special Care Nursing Facility in the state dedicated exclusively to adults with spinal cord injuries and other neurological impairments. Through comprehensive rehabilitation, nursing care, and community reintegration programs, Cheshire Home empowers residents to reclaim their maximum level of independence and live full, meaningful lives.
For more information, visit www.cheshirehome.org.