April currently serves as Director of Care Management for the EBCI Tribal Option, but her impact on this organization and the Cherokee community extends far beyond any single title. As the second longest serving employee within Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, April has dedicated her life and career to improving the health and well-being of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians.
Throughout her more than 30 years of service, April has served in numerous roles and capacities across the organization, each one helping build a lasting legacy for the community. From frontline responsibilities to senior leadership, she has consistently approached her work with compassion, humility, integrity, and a commitment to the people we serve.
Her leadership has helped shape Tribal Option into a nationally respected care management program while strengthening collaboration, advocacy, and support for members across the region. Colleagues describe April as approachable, trustworthy, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in the success and well-being of both employees and patients alike.
What makes April especially deserving of this recognition is not only her professional accomplishments, but the way she carries herself every day. She leads with heart. She mentors others, advocates for meaningful solutions, supports her team without hesitation, and continually places the needs of our community at the center of her work.
April’s dedication reflects the very best of Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority and our mission to serve the Cherokee people with excellence and respect. Her decades of service have touched countless lives, strengthened programs across the organization, and created a lasting impact that will continue for the next seven generations.
Please join us in congratulating April Ross on being named the 2026 Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority Employee of the Year.
To read about all of this year’s nominees, CLICK HERE