Michigan’s best: Celebrating excellence at Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Muskegon
October 28, 2025
In a moment of celebration and reflection, Trinity Health Ann Arbor Chief Nursing Officer Katy Hoffman and Trinity Health Muskegon Director of Nursing Kelli Bylsma shared what a recent U.S. News & World Report recognition means to them and their teams. With pride and gratitude, they spoke about the dedication of their caregivers, the quality of the care delivered, and the honor of being named a 2025-2026 Best Hospitals in Michigan. Both leaders emphasized a shared belief that clinical excellence is rooted in experience, compassion, and a collective commitment to serving others.
What does it mean to be named a Best Regional Hospital by U.S. News & World Report?
Hoffman: This recognition is a testament to our caregivers. Their dedication to bringing their very best every single day is what makes a meaningful difference for patients. We have nurses who’ve worked here for 30 or even 40 years. Their experience is invaluable, but it’s their compassion that shines brightest. When everyone contributes that level of energy to the collective good for the communities we serve, that’s something special. That’s why we’re one of the best hospitals in Michigan.
Bylsma: I echo everything Katy said. For Muskegon, this recognition brings a deep sense of pride. It validates the trust our patients place in us and honors every nurse, physician, and support staff member who has devoted their professional life to caring for others. This award should also serve as an invitation to anyone considering a career in health care. Come work with us and be part of something bigger than yourself. If my time at Trinity Health Muskegon has taught me anything, it’s the power and impact that one person can have on another.
Why is this recognition important for your community?
Hoffman: As a patient, confidence in your hospital and your care team is so important. When people see Trinity Health Ann Arbor is ranked among our state’s best, they know their family is receiving nationally recognized care. When patients and their families arrive to us feeling scared and vulnerable, knowing we have their back and we are the very best at what we do, that makes a difference.
Bylsma: I think this award is also a source of pride for our community. Trinity Health Muskegon is on the map for delivering high-quality care, and that means local families don’t have to travel far to receive exceptional treatment.
What role does nursing play in achieving these recognitions?
Hoffman: Nurses are the heartbeat of our hospital. Whether it’s bedside care or care coordination, nurses are the linchpin that keeps everything moving. Without excellent nurses, this award would not have been possible.
Bylsma: I couldn’t agree more. What makes Trinity Health so special is that our leadership includes highly experienced clinicians, especially nurses. Whether in the boardroom or at the bedside, nurses drive decisions that shape the care our patients receive. We have a seat at the table and a voice in every important conversation. A patient will have no greater advocate than the nurses that care for them.
What’s next for Trinity Health Ann Arbor and Muskegon?
Hoffman: This recognition is a morale boost for our teams, and we’ll use it as fuel for the fire to keep improving. There is always more work to be done. We’ll continue to expand access to care, we’ll refine our protocols and processes, and we’ll continue to lead in the adoption of innovative medical technologies that elevate the care we provide.
Bylsma: Being named a Best Regional Hospital is a milestone, but our commitment to excellence has no end. There’s always room to grow, and always someone in need of compassion and care.