HSA Nurse Receives 2025 Eloise Reid Excellence in Nursing Award

Young Caymanian Nurse, Shanique Ayres, of the Health Services Authority (HSA) was awarded the 2025 Eloise Reid Excellence in Nursing Award by the Cayman Islands Nursing and Midwifery Association (CINMA) at its Nursing Symposium on the 8th May at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI).

The Eloise Reid Excellence in Nursing Award was re-established by CINMA to recognise the 30-year contribution of Nurse Eloise Reid, one of the longest-serving chief nursing officers at the HSA, who moved on to become CEO at the HSA in 2004 before retiring in 2005. Renowned for her visionary leadership and commitment to advancing patient care, Nurse Reid’s distinguished career stands as a testament to excellence, foresight and resilience.

The award, last given in 2013, recognises registered nurses/midwives in the Cayman Islands who have demonstrated excellence, creativity and commitment to improving nursing practice for the benefit of patients and the people of our Islands. 

Award recipient Shanique Ayres shared her heartfelt gratitude upon receiving the prestigious Eloise Reid Excellence in Nursing Award. “I am truly humbled and honoured," she expressed. “As a proud Caymanian, this recognition means more to me than words can express. Mrs. Eloise Reid dedicated 30 years of her life to service, an extraordinary level of commitment and dedication to the nursing profession that is truly admirable”.

Nurse Ayres, a 2019 graduate of UCCI, joined the HSA team on the medical ward in May 2020. Reflecting on her dedication and growth, Medical Unit Nurse Manager Marsha Clark remarked that, “Shanique exemplifies transformational leadership. She actively mentors junior staff and nursing students, creating a supportive environment where nurses feel empowered to voice ideas and concerns. She is passionate about patient care and patients having a great experience. Shanique upholds our core values and complies wholeheartedly with standard operating procedures. It's difficult to find an area she does not excel. I am inspired by her professional integrity, humility, and tireless advocacy for both patients and staff.”

HSA’s Public Health/Primary Healthcare Team received the runner-up position. “We are honoured and grateful. Nurse Eloise has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and empower others,” noted Public Health/Primary Health Care Services Senior Nursing Officer, Joanna Rose-Wright.  “Every day, we strive to make a meaningful impact in our community. We are also deeply appreciative of the hard work of our public health nurses and team members who bridge the gap and consistently care for our residents and visitors alike. This acknowledgement is not just a celebration of their dedication; it is a call to continue supporting and empowering those on the front lines in community health.

In congratulating Nurse Shanique Ayres and the Public Health/Primary Healthcare Team, HSA’s CEO Ms. Lizzette Yearwood emphasised, “We are incredibly proud to celebrate Nurse Ayres for receiving this prestigious nursing award. Her compassion and commitment to patient care exemplify the very best of our profession and our organisation. She is a true inspiration to her colleagues and a shining example of the profound impact that skilled and empathetic nursing can have on our community.”

“Throughout her exceptional career, Nurse Eloise Reid played a key role in shaping healthcare in the Cayman Islands. Her dedication, compassion and strength exemplify purposeful leadership. Her lasting legacy continues to make a difference, and the award to Ms. Ayres highlights the importance of inspiring young Caymanians to pursue a career in nursing, strengthening our healthcare system with homegrown talent,” Ms. Yearwood continued.