Donna Baker, director of quality, risk and compliance at Maine Veterans’ Homes, received the 2026 American Health Care Association Leader of the Year Award at the AHCA/NCAL Convention & Expo in Boston.
Presented to one individual nationwide each year, the award recognizes outstanding leadership in long-term care. It is part of the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living’s Provider Achieving Care Excellence Awards Program.
A registered nurse with more than 33 years of experience, Baker has devoted more than 20 years to Maine Veterans’ Homes. She provides leadership in quality improvement, risk management and regulatory compliance across the organization’s six homes, helping teams strengthen care while protecting residents’ dignity, safety and quality of life.
“Donna’s influence touches each of our six Homes,” Brad Klawitter, CEO of Maine Veterans’ Homes, said. “She helps our teams navigate difficult challenges while prioritizing the needs of our Veterans and their families. She also takes time to listen, teach and support the people around her. We are proud to see her dedication and expertise recognized on a national stage.”
Baker’s leadership has supported initiatives to prevent falls and pressure injuries, reduce avoidable hospitalizations and decrease the use of psychotropic medications when appropriate. She brings staff from nursing, therapy, dietary, social services and other departments together to improve care, helping employees understand both the practices being introduced and why they matter to residents.
Her work has also contributed to three MVH Homes earning the AHCA/NCAL Gold Quality Award, which recognizes sustained excellence in quality and organizational performance.
“It is an honor to receive this award, and I’m grateful to work with people who are exceptional at what they do and so driven by our mission,” Baker said. “Improving care takes everyone, and I see that commitment in our homes every day.”
Baker is a familiar presence throughout the homes. Alongside her clinical and regulatory responsibilities, she attends resident celebrations, speaks with families, recognizes employee achievements and mentors nursing leaders. Her award nomination highlighted her approachability and her commitment to ensuring residents feel known and staff feel supported.
Baker began her MVH career in 2006 at the Augusta home, serving as staff development coordinator and then director of nursing before moving into a systemwide leadership role in 2012. She holds certifications in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement and healthcare compliance.
