Written by:
Nora Wallace - Marketing and Public Relations Manager 

Lompoc Valley Medical Center’s Clinical Laboratory Scientist April Villarreal has been named a 2026 “SoCal Hospital Hero” by the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC). 

The HASC Hero Awards recognize hospital employees who go above and beyond for their patients, colleagues, hospitals and communities. Each year, HASC's selection committee reviews nominations from across six Southern California counties, looking for people whose dedication and impact truly stand out. 

This year, April's story, and the difference she makes at LVMC and in the Lompoc Valley, rose above many other inspiring nominations. 

“April Villarreal embodies everything that LVMC stands for,” said Chief Executive Officer Yvette Cope, RN, MSN, in the nomination letter. “She is a culture builder, a mentor, a community advocate and a healthcare professional who gives her very best every single day … April truly represents what the HASC Hero Award is all about. She leads by example, supports those around her and gives her time and talent to make LVMC and our community stronger.” 

 April, who began her career at LVMC six years ago as a Medical Laboratory Technician, studied to become a Clinical Laboratory Scientist while working full-time and raising a family. Determined that others have the chance to follow her path, April developed a framework to create an LVMC MLT-to-CLS advancement program for aspiring scientists. Working with the hospital administration, she received approval for the program. Two additional LVMC employees are now enrolled in the program, giving them a route to a higher-paying career thanks to April’s efforts. 

“April also gives so much of herself to our LVMC family,” Cope said. “She is always willing to volunteer at staff events and helps make sure our employees feel valued and appreciated. She is deeply involved in our community as a volunteer Lompoc Hospital District Foundation trustee, and she shares her story at career fairs to encourage others to consider a career in healthcare.” 

During her time at LVMC, April has also shown a tireless commitment to strengthening the hospital’s organizational culture. Three years ago, she led the creation of the hospital’s BEE Award (BEE-yond Exceptional Experience), a staff recognition program designed to celebrate non-clinical employees who go above and beyond in their daily work. 

She volunteers for nearly every event the organization hosts and serves on the committees that plan staff celebrations, always making sure that all employee feel seen and valued, Cope noted. 

“She is the kind of person who lifts everyone around her and her contributions go far beyond her role in the laboratory,” Cope said. 

Known for hugging every staff member she encounters, April “spreads joy everywhere she goes and her energy is contagious,” Cope added. 

April’s nomination included acknowledgement of her willingness to attend local Career Fairs or to visit classrooms and give talks about her life and career development. 

“Her message is powerful and personal: anyone can build a rewarding career, stay local, and earn a higher-paying wage right here in the Lompoc Valley,” Cope said. “She is living proof of that message, and young people connect with her because of it.” 

 HASC President and CEO George W. Greene sent a congratulatory video message to April on the announcement of the honor. 

“Every day you make a difference in the lives of those around you, and this recognition is a testament to your hard work and impact. You embody the very best of healthcare and we are honored to celebrate you. Thank you for all that you do. Southern California's hospitals are stronger because of you.” 

April will be celebrated with other heroes at the fourth annual My SoCal Hospital Heroes Award Gala in November.