Each month, Healthy Connections recognizes two employees—one from the East Communities and one from the West Communities—who exemplify our three core pillars of Community, Compassion, and Excellence. These pillars guide the work we do each day to deliver high-quality healthcare to the communities we serve.
For June 2025, we are proud to recognize Kendra Laxton of the Hot Springs Central Clinic as the East Communities Employee of the Month, and Christi Martin of the Mena Clinic as the West Communities Employee of the Month. Both have demonstrated consistent commitment to their patients, their coworkers, and their clinics.
East Communities Winner: Kendra Laxton – Hot Springs Central Clinic
Kendra Laxton is a Medical Assistant at the Hot Springs Central Clinic. She has been with Healthy Connections since 2023. In her role, Kendra supports providers in delivering patient care, assists with clinical operations, and helps ensure the clinic runs efficiently.
In her nomination, a coworker highlighted how her attitude impacts the clinic culture and staff morale:
“I walk in to work every morning to a smile on her face and it makes the workday ahead easier.”
Kendra’s selection reflects the Healthy Connections pillar of Excellence, demonstrated through her dependable presence and positive approach to each workday. Her actions may seem simple, but the consistency with which she supports her coworkers and sets the tone in the clinic contributes to a better experience for everyone.
The East Communities region includes clinics in Hot Springs Central, Hot Springs Chippewa, Hot Springs McAuley, Malvern, Arkadelphia, Little Rock Midtown, Bryant, and other central Arkansas locations.
West Communities Winner: Christi Martin – Mena Clinic
Christi Martin is the Lead Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) at the Mena Clinic and has been with Healthy Connections since 2005. With nearly two decades of service, she brings a deep understanding of clinic operations, patient needs, and teamwork. As Lead PCC, she helps manage front desk operations and supports both patients and clinic staff.
Her nomination outlined why she stood out this month:
“She is always ready to help no matter the situation or questions thrown at her. She treats her coworkers and patients with respect and understanding. She is always on top of any work given to her and knows how to deescalate high tension situations.”
Christi’s ability to manage challenges calmly and respectfully shows her strength in all three Healthy Connections pillars: Community, Compassion, and Excellence. Whether she is helping a patient navigate a complex situation or supporting a team member through a stressful day, she brings a steady, reliable presence to the clinic.
The West Communities region includes Mena, De Queen, Mt. Ida, Russellville, Texarkana, and surrounding areas. Christi’s long-standing service in Mena has made her a trusted member of the community and a key part of the clinic’s success.
We congratulate Kendra Laxton and Christi Martin on their well-earned recognition as our June 2025 Employees of the Month. Their work is a reminder of the difference one person can make in creating a supportive, high-quality healthcare environment.
Want to be part of a team where employees are recognized for making an impact? Explore current career opportunities at Healthy Connections by visiting www.healthy-connections.org/careers.
