Barrington woman honored with 2024 Cornerstone Award

Susan Gaudiello accepts 2024 Cornerstone Award during a ceremony last month. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Cornerstone VNA recently announced their annual Cornerstone Award recipient, given to an individual or business in recognition of their commitment to advancing the mission of Cornerstone VNA. This year, Susan Young Gaudiello of Barrington was honored with the 2024 Cornerstone Award during a gathering of donors and friends on June 26.

Gaudiello's work life has been one of service throughout the State of New Hampshire as the executive cirector for nearly 20 years of the Home Care Association of NH, now known as the Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Alliance of NH.

In this role, she worked tirelessly to ensure that all residents have access to care at home. Upon her retirement, she wanted to continue to give back and advocate for those in her community and joined the Cornerstone VNA Board of Directors in 2011. According to Julie Reynolds, RN, MS, President/CEO, "Susan has been a champion of Cornerstone VNA, providing leadership, motivation, and vision that has propelled us into action and inspired others."

During her time on the Board of Directors, Gaudiello has held the position of vice chair and chair and was actively involved in numerous board committees. Her business background, passion for home healthcare, and her advocacy efforts, have been instrumental in leading the board's success and sustainability. She has been a mentor to many other board members and influential in engaging board members.

Gaudiello has made significant contributions to Cornerstone VNA, especially during times of change, growth, and unexpected challenges. This included the successful leadership transition of Cornerstone VNA's CEO in 2013, helping the organization in its efforts to build a culture of philanthropy, and providing exceptional guidance and support through a capital campaign and the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Advancement Director, Erika Lee, "The agency was incredibly fortunate to benefit from Susan's guidance throughout the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Her infinite wisdom and calm approach during so much uncertainty really helped us navigate that challenging time with confidence. Susan was also deeply involved in the building expansion and renovation project to ensure the continued growth and success of Cornerstone VNA."

Over the years, Gaudiello has made personal contributions to the organization by supporting various campaigns and becoming a member of the Norma Snow Legacy Society. She understands the importance of leading by example, and as a result, she has played a key role in helping to build an agency-wide culture of philanthropy.

"It's been an honor and a pleasure to support the VNA's mission as a board member and donor," Gaudiello stated in accepting the award. "My family has personally benefitted from their outstanding services, so I know how valuable this organization is to all communities it serves."

Gaudiello gives unconditionally, not only at Cornerstone VNA, but to her Town of Barrington through her past service as a Select Board member, and her current role as chair of the public library board of trustees and library building committee. Cornerstone VNA is grateful to honor Susan for her years of service, philanthropy, and dedication.