Kristen Knapp, senior director of strategy and communications for the Florida Health Care Association, was presented with the Walter M. Johnson Jr. Circle of Excellence Award during the FHCA Annual Conference and Trade Show in Orlando last week. Knapp has led communications for FHCA for 18 years, serving as the primary public relations and public affairs manager and spokesperson for media inquiries. She also oversees crisis communication for hurricanes and the COVID‑19 pandemic, workforce initiatives, and the FHCA scholarship program, which has distributed about $900,000 to students and healthcare professionals. The Walter M. Johnson Jr. Circle of Excellence Award, established in 1972, honors individuals recognized for their contributions to the association and is named for Walter M. Johnson Jr., who served as FHCA president from 1969 to 1971 and helped expand membership and legislative advocacy. In addition to her communications duties, Knapp founded the FHCA Florida Leaders program, which trains long‑term healthcare leaders and works to improve skilled nursing and assisted living facilities across the state. Reed said Knapp’s efforts have brought together members during hurricane preparedness and response and have highlighted the work of caregivers, emphasizing the importance of quality care for Florida families. Knapp’s scholarship program and leadership training aim to address the growing need for caregivers in Florida’s senior population. The award reflects continued recognition of FHCA’s initiatives to strengthen long‑term care in the state.