As part of Healthcare Appreciation Week, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System recognized longtime associates for their years of service and highlighted the Associate and Leader of the Year for 2024-2025.  

Associate of the Year: Anita Robinson 

Anita Robinson, a care manager for the Health Management Network in the Home Office division, was named Associate of the Year for how her compassion and persistence has made a significant impact on the lives of patients and on the overall system. 

As an example of that commitment, Anita calmed an agitated patient during a home visit and arranged necessary medical appointments. 

When the patient revealed plans to harm herself and others, Anita’s intervention led her to seek immediate help with the Spartanburg County Department of Mental Health. Her quick response and dedication ultimately saved lives. 

The patient now has a mental health care plan in place and has established care with a new primary care provider, much in part thanks to Anita’s compassionate efforts. 

The other associate division winners were:  

Medical Group of the Carolinas: Corey Lyles, Certified Medical Assistant, Medical Affiliates – North Grove 

Western Division: Susan Tate, Food Services Supervisor – Food & Nutrition Services  

Spartanburg Medical Center Division: Stacie Looney Her, Occupational Therapy Assistant – Rehabilitation Services  

Post-Acute Division: Tammy Cannon, LPN – Skilled Nursing Unit  

Rural Health Division: Crystal Moss, Clinical Program Coordinator – Nursing Administration  

Leader of the Year: Michael Starnes 

Among 32 nominations presented to the selection committee, Michael Starnes was named this year’s Leader of the Year for his excellent work ethic, willingness, servant leadership and project implementation. 

Michael is in his 28th year at Spartanburg Regional. Since 1997, he has proven time and time again to be a critical asset to Gibbs Cancer Center’s growth and influence. He was the operation lead for the Gibbs Cancer Center at Pelham project and instrumental in the planning and implementation of that project. He most recently was promoted to System Director of Oncology Services. 

“Michael is an under-the-radar leader, never asking to be recognized and always leads by example. He leads with a great deal of integrity and is respected by his peers for his compassionate and collaborative style. I have worked directly with Michael for the last year, and it is obvious he has this organization’s best interest at heart,” said Parkes Coggins, Vice President Heart/Vascular and Oncology Services. 

Michael has done an excellent job holding his staff accountable to its core mission and is always looking for ways Gibbs Cancer Center can improve for the betterment of the community. 

“Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is lucky Michael is a part of our team,” Coggins said, “and I look forward to continuing to work alongside him as we continue to fulfill our mission to Advance Health Together.”