COLUMBIA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr 21, 2026--
Maxim Healthcare (Maxim), a national provider of continuous skilled nursing services and personal and behavioral care, is proud to announce its National Caregiver of the Year award recipients, recognizing two exceptional individuals whose compassion and dedication exemplify Maxim’s mission to enhance the quality of life for their patients. This year’s national honorees are Sothavy Pfaff (Pfaff), an LVN from San Diego, recognized in the Home Healthcare category, and Mackenzie Leischner (Leischner), a Lead Registered Behavior Technician from Orlando, recognized in the Behavioral Health category. Pfaff and Leischner were honored with the John “Doc” Langley Caregiver of the Year awards during a ceremony in Dallas on April 15, surrounded by their colleagues, fellow nominees and loved ones.
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“Sothavy and Mackenzie represent the very best of who we are as an organization,” said Maxim Healthcare’s Chief Executive Officer, Jarrod DePriest. “Sothavy’s lifelong dedication to her patients and Mackenzie’s transformative impact in behavioral health embody our organization’s mission and values in action. We deeply admire both Sothavy and Mackenzie for their respective years of service and are thrilled to present them both with this much deserved recognition."
Sothavy Pfaff has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to service through her decades-long care for two sisters who have been patients since infancy and are now in their forties. Pfaff’s unwavering dedication gives her patients continuity and dignity in their care, even in the face of industry-wide staffing challenges.
Pfaff provides reliable, compassionate, respectful service, which not only enhances the lives of her patients, but also the entire family. Pfaff’s work makes her patients feel valued and receive the level of care anyone would want for their loved ones. She is described by her patients, who have known Pfaff for more than 35 years, as not only a vital part of their life but also a member of their family.
“Sothavy is one of the most constant, compassionate and supportive figures in my life,” said Janelle Eckardt. “She has supported me through every chapter with a steady hand and a loving heart. Her medical expertise aside, her empathy, humor and dedication to both my sister and me is what truly makes her stand out.”
Pfaff’s commitment to care is not only evident to her patients, but also her fellow nurses. She regularly volunteers to train new caregivers both for Maxim and for a local college’s nursing program. When asked what this recognition means, Pfaff said, “I have always wanted to help others, and I am truly fortunate to call this job my life’s work. Thank you, Maxim, for recognizing me with this incredible honor.”
Mackenzie Leischner has made a profound impact in behavioral health through her leadership, empathy and client-centered approach. As a Lead Registered Behavior Technician for Maxim, she consistently sets the standard for excellence, transforming challenges into meaningful breakthroughs for her clients.
In one notable instance, Leischner helped a newly diagnosed child who was struggling emotionally by meeting the child at their level, sitting on the floor and engaging in play, to build trust. In their work together, she adapted the client’s care plan, and in doing so created a safe, supportive environment. The child’s parents later shared that this interaction with Leischner was the first time they had seen their child smile and connect with someone outside of their family.
“Mackenzie is truly phenomenal,” said Lauren McCastlain, Maxim Clinical Manager. “She begins every session with a smile and develops an easy rapport with her clients. Not only is she the epitome of class and professionalism, she is also truly kind and understanding. Maxim is so lucky to have Mackenzie, and I am confident she will continue to have a positive impact on any client or coworker she engages with.”
Leischner's leadership also extends to her colleagues. She regularly mentors new team members, supporting and coaching them through difficult cases. Her collaborative spirit and innovative thinking foster an environment where both clients and caregivers can thrive. When asked what this national recognition means to her personally, Leischner said, “The nature of our work is delicate, but there is no greater reward than seeing our clients succeed. I am lucky to work for Maxim and very thankful to be honored in this incredibly special way.”
Maxim’s Caregiver of the Year Award program celebrates nurses, home healthcare aides and behavioral direct care workers for their impactful contributions to the home healthcare community. This year’s 15th annual National Caregiver of the Year event, celebrated Pfaff and Leischner, who were selected from hundreds of nominations across the country.
About Maxim Healthcare
For more than 35 years, Maxim Healthcare has been making a difference in patients’ lives by providing excellent service and compassionate care. We offer skilled nursing, personal care, respite care, behavioral care and physical rehabilitation for individuals with chronic and acute illnesses and disabilities. Visit maximhealthcare.com for more information.
Maxim Healthcare Leaders Jarrod DePriest and Kellie Lanier present Sothavy Pfaff, an LVN from San Diego, and Mackenzie Leischner, a Lead Registered Behavior Technician from Orlando, with the National Caregiver of the Year awards. Pfaff and Leischner were honored during a national awards ceremony in Dallas on April 15th.
