Known as a selfless and dedicated nurse who is there for her patients, even during a rare and formidable snowstorm, Celia “Bhing” Dequito is St. Joseph’s/Candler’s 32nd Annual McAuley Award recipient.

St. Joseph’s/Candler President & CEO Paul P. Hinchey announced Dequito’s name at a special ceremony at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Thursday afternoon. The McAuley Award is named in honor of Catherine McAuley, who founded The Sisters of Mercy in the hopes of bringing education, healthcare, social justice, and spiritual guidance to those in need. Dequito was among 139 co-workers nominated by their peers for the award. 

Dequito serves as the Resource Coordinator for 7 North at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She is a vital link in her unit, overseeing the daily operations, managing resources, and ensuring the smooth flow of patient care. In her nomination, co-workers noted that Dequito “is very knowledgeable of every patient on her unit and is a strong advocate for each of them.” 

One of her co-workers even called Dequito “the most selfless person I have ever met.” They also cited a recent example of Dequito’s commitment—during the January 2025 snowstorm that hit Savannah, Dequito trudged through rough and icy conditions from Richmond Hill to St. Joseph’s Hospital to make it to her 7a.m. shift, knowing that some of her other co-workers wouldn’t be able to make it. Another one of her peers said, “She demonstrated every one of St. Joseph’s/Candler’s values that day.”

As the 32nd McAuley Award recipient, Dequito will have her name and image added to the bronze McAuley plaque displayed in the lobbies of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Candler Hospital. She will receive a $3,000 honorarium, a one-year parking pass in the location of her choice, a one-month cafeteria meal pass, a gift certificate for a massage at SJ/C’s Wellness Center, a St. Joseph’s/Candler watch and the McAuley plaque and pin.