Elizabeth “Liz” Marin-Rodriguez, Manager of Spiritual Care at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, has received the Angel Award in recognition of her significant contributions to the organization’s mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ. The award, based on 2024 nominations, highlights individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership in mission-related achievements and spiritual guidance.
“Every day, I find inspiration in the people around me. Listening to their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs fuels my passion for my work. It’s these personal connections that remind me why I chose this path,” Marin-Rodriguez said.
Reflecting on her decision to join AdventHealth, Marin-Rodriguez stated: “To me, an angel is a messenger who carries a special mission to help others. Choosing AdventHealth was an easy decision because, in many ways, AdventHealth chose me first. The people, the mission, and the culture resonated with me deeply. I feel a strong connection to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ that is alive and well at AdventHealth.”
Marin-Rodriguez attributes her growth as a leader to her team’s support. “They believe in what I have to offer, even when I doubt myself,” she said. “Their constant encouragement, constructive feedback, and support have helped me become the best team member I can be.”
She also acknowledged her grandfather’s influence on her life: “Papa Abe’ has been a significant inspiration in my life. His wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support have shaped me into the person I am today.”
A key moment in Marin-Rodriguez’s journey occurred during a mission trip while she was still a freshman biology major at Southwestern Adventist University. She recalled: “At that moment, I didn’t realize where this watershed experience would lead me, but it marked the beginning of a new journey that eventually led me to become a chaplain.”
Colleagues at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission recognize Marin-Rodriguez for her compassion and leadership. Her dedication is reflected by high engagement scores from employee satisfaction surveys.
She shared one of her most memorable experiences at work: observing an open-heart surgery with one of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission’s surgical teams. “For years, this had been on my bucket list, and I finally had the opportunity to join one of the most amazing and hospitable surgical teams at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission,” she said. “The team made me feel welcome inside the operating room and generously shared their knowledge with me. It was a meaningful and spiritual experience that I will never forget.”
AdventHealth Orlando is part of the broader AdventHealth network; it was founded in 1908 in Orlando, Florida and currently serves as both a hospital with pediatric services and as a training facility under President Terry Shaw.
