Asbury Park, New Jersey – December 6, 2024: Samantha Ricciardi, Lead Office Manager and Dental Practice Manager at VNACJ Community Health Center (CHC), has been named a Healthcare Hero by the New Jersey Primary Care Association (NJPCA). This prestigious award celebrates her exceptional leadership and commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare to underserved communities.
Receiving the NJPCA Healthcare Hero Award marks a significant milestone in Samantha’s journey. Reflecting on the honor, she shared, “This is a tremendous honor, both personally and professionally. On a personal level, it is incredibly rewarding to be recognized—as a person who grew up homeless and underserved—in a field I am so passionate about. Healthcare leadership can be demanding. Being acknowledged for making a positive impact reminds me of how far I have come, as well as the difference made in the community’s well-being.”
This award highlights Samantha’s journey and the vital work of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like the CHC. These centers play a critical role in breaking down barriers to healthcare, a mission Samantha embraces wholeheartedly.
From Entry-Level to Leadership
Samantha’s career with the CHC began nine years ago as a Front Desk Coordinator and Certified Medical Assistant. Drawn to the organization’s mission, she embraced opportunities for growth and rose to her current leadership role.
“From the start, I felt a strong connection to our mission, which motivated me to keep growing within the organization,” she explained. Through hard work and dedication, Samantha has become a leader who ensures operational excellence and high-quality patient care.
Her dynamic roles involve addressing daily challenges while implementing long-term strategies to meet the community’s evolving needs. “Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and make a difference,” she explained. Samantha’s influence also extends to mentoring her team. “I love helping my team grow and develop their skills. Coaching the next generation of healthcare leaders is incredibly meaningful,” she added.
A Commitment to Patients and Community
Samantha’s work at the CHC is deeply rooted in her commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for patients who often face barriers to care. “It is incredibly meaningful to serve patients who may have nowhere else to turn for care. I am truly proud of being able to offer a welcoming, supportive environment to all patients, especially those who may not feel welcome elsewhere,” she emphasized.
Her recognition as an NJPCA Healthcare Hero affirms the significance of this mission and fuels her drive to innovate in patient care. “This recognition reinforces the values of the services we provide. I hope this reward inspires me to keep pushing boundaries and new ways to provide patient care. It also motivates me to continue developing as a leader and encourage other young women to pursue leadership and excellence in everything we do,” she shared.
Advice for Aspiring Leaders
For those looking to make a difference in healthcare, Samantha encourages a mindset of passion, perseverance, and compassion. “Stay passionate about the work you do and the people you serve. In today’s world, we have to stay true to our morals and what we feel strongly about. Focus on learning as much as possible, and do not be afraid to take on challenges. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and make a difference. Always accept your mistakes and learn from them. Always surround yourself with people who inspire you and look for mentors who can guide you along your journey,” she advises.
“Most importantly, always lead with compassion, empathy, and purpose because that’s what drives real and meaningful impact.”
Celebrating a Healthcare Hero
Samantha Ricciardi’s recognition as an NJPCA Healthcare Hero is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and dedication to improving community health. Through her work at the CHC, she continues to inspire her team, uplift patients, and impact the lives of those she serves. Her journey is a reminder of the power of compassion, determination, and purpose in creating meaningful change.
About VNACJ Community Health Center
The Visiting Nurse Association of Central Jersey Community Health Center, Inc. (VNACJ Community Health Center) has been integral to Monmouth County for over 27 years, providing comprehensive primary and preventative care for infants, children, and adults.
As a Federally Qualified Health Center, VNACJ Community Health Center provides care at a sliding-scale cost, meaning that quality of care is never dictated by a patient’s ability to pay. Ensuring equitable access and overcoming barriers in the healthcare system is central to the organization’s approach to care.
VNACJ Community Health Centers are conveniently located in Asbury Park, Freehold, Keyport, and Red Bank. The organization works across its four locations to fulfill its mission of building healthy communities and enhancing well-being.
With a diverse and multilingual team of professionals, VNACJ Community Health Center aims to represent and reflect New Jersey’s diverse communities, focusing on expanding access to high-quality healthcare in a trusted and inclusive environment. To learn more, visit: https://vnachc.org/