Whether spearheading a vaccine clinic that served over 4,000 people with intellectual/developmental disabilities or traveling to underserved countries to conduct medical care, Jake Wilkins, RN, vice president, People Home Health Services, has demonstrated the far-reaching power of nursing. These efforts are some of the many reasons why Wilkins was People Inc.’s nominee for The Buffalo News 2025 Nurse of Distinction Award.

“Jake is a quiet and humble person, but his activities and service to the community and nursing professions speak volumes. He role models accountability, empathy, and understanding. His patience, problem solving, and caring attitude is modeled by his staff,” said Maralyn Militello, MPA, BSN, RN, CPHQ, NEA-BC, chief program officer.

The Nurse of Distinction Awards highlight significant achievements in clinical practice, research, or administration, demonstrated leadership inspiring improvement among peers, mentorship to fellow nurses and efforts to enhance the public perception of nursing as a noble profession.

While he’s known for advocating for people with grace and empathy, he has also dedicated his time and expertise to global health care by volunteering in rural Honduras, where he mentors students, provides medical care and helps deliver clean water through his work with Honduras Health Horizons.  In addition, he serves as a Chautauqua County Coroner and participates in state-level health care advocacy.

“I believe that everyone has something to contribute and through that lives a life of service,” said Wilkins.

Alex Demers, RN

“Walking into a site and being greeted with smiling faces and excitement from the people that live there is truly an unmatched experience,” said Alex Demers, RN, a residential nurse at People Inc. 

Demers’ passion for the people she serves is the reason she was named as People Inc.’s spring 2025 DAISY Award® Winner. 

“Alex brings excellent clinical skill to her practice, as well as confidence and kindness, to the people served in her sites and the staff she works with,” said Tanya Perri, vice president, clinical.

The DAISY Award® is an international program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care nurses provide every day. People Inc. is proud to be a DAISY Award® Partner, recognizing one of its nurses with this special honor twice a year. DAISY Award® honorees will personify People Inc.'s mission, dedication to compassionate care, and adherence to the highest quality standards.

“I have had the pleasure of growing within the agency, starting as a DSP and now being a nurse. It has been wonderful to discover the different aspects in which I can provide care for the individuals in different roles. I value not only providing care myself, but also supporting the team at each site to do the best job they possibly can,” said Demers.