Going above and beyond the welcome desk

Walk through the doors of University Hills Health and Rehabilitation, and chances are, Shanice Cannon’s smiling face will be the first to greet you.

For Cannon, there was no cut-and-dry, linear path leading her into the care center world. She explained how she “stumbled into it,” ultimately. While going through dental school, she was cross-trained in administrative work. From there, she said she “stumbled” into her current position at University Hills, and “just liked it.” She has served University Hills faithfully for 2.5 years now.

A smile trickled into her voice as she spoke over the phone about her motivation for showing up each day. “My residents. They all have different characteristics and personalities—it’s fun.” Cannon also credited her fellow employees and the uplifting environment they share. “We all work together as a team.” Cannon emphasized the impact of University Hills BOM, Shauna Lisenby, and how she helps lead the team and boost morale. “[Shauna] is very good about passing along positive affirmations daily. She lets me know I’m doing a good job. She’s very good at utilizing my positive attributes for the company and letting them know my worth.”

In that regard, Cannon believes that respect and compassion are the most vital of Consulate’s five core values. “Respect is something that everyone can give or receive. It’s not limited to one person, no matter your job title or who you are.”

Cannon takes her position at University Hills a step further than answering phones and dispensing information to visitors. Compassion infuses her daily interactions with patients, families, and visitors. She said, “There are a lot of people here who can’t be around their family members very much, so I feel like I need to step up and be that for them, and treat them as if they’re family.”

Shauna Lisenby wrote: “Shanice Cannon continuously shows passion for her residents and for Consulate. Shanice always comes to work with a smile on her face, and is ready to tackle any obstacles that may come her way. Shanice goes above and beyond for the residents who need assistance obtaining Medicaid—a duty that she has taken on beyond her job requirements—because she cares for her residents and wants to ensure they receive the services they are eligible for.”

In addition to Consulate’s five core values, Cannon displayed a clear sense of humility. For all those working as receptionists or in administrative assistant roles, Cannon advised: “Don’t underestimate yourself. Even in a ‘low totem pole’ type job, you bring a lot of benefits and value to your job. . . You’re the center of everything. . . kind of like the core.” Fortunately, for University Hills, Cannon takes her role as an opportunity to reach out and give TLC to all the patients, families, and staff members she can.

In her free time, Cannon enjoys cooking, traveling, and spending time with her family. She also attends classes to earn a degree in social work.