Delaware Hospice is proud to announce that Whitney Layton, Vice President of Compliance, Quality, & Education, has been named to Arrowfly Healthcare’s 2026 Future Leaders Class in the Hospice & Palliative Care category.
The Future Leaders Awards program recognizes exceptional professionals under the age of 40 who are shaping the future of aging and healthcare. Honorees span a broad range of sectors, including hospice and palliative care, home health, behavioral health, senior living, and more.
Layton’s recognition reflects her outstanding leadership and her commitment to advancing high-quality care for patients and families. In her role at Delaware Hospice, she leads initiatives that strengthen compliance, elevate clinical quality, and support education across teams, ensuring both caregivers and patients receive the highest standard of care.
“Whitney is someone who sets the standard at Delaware Hospice for embodying our team values and mission of supporting every individual with compassionate and expert care,” said Charles McDonough, Delaware Hospice President and CEO. “Her dedication to quality, her thoughtful leadership, and her passion for improving care experiences make a meaningful impact across our organization and the communities we serve. It is evident that Whitney is eager to serve others, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognized on a national level.”
This year’s class is just under 100 professionals, each one an advocate for their respective patients, residents, and communities.
“The Future Leaders Class of 2026 reflects a strong, collective commitment to improving the well-being of the individuals and communities they serve,” said Tim Mullaney, Vice President and Editorial Director of Arrowfly Healthcare. “These leaders are elevating patient experiences, supporting caregivers, and driving innovation across the care continuum. Their dedication to excellence sets them apart, and their influence will continue to shape the future of healthcare.”
Each honoree will be featured in upcoming Arrowfly Healthcare publications and invited to participate in future in-person conferences. Meet the full class of 2026.
Layton sat down with Hospice News to share what drew her to the hospice and palliative care industry, the biggest leadership lessons she has learned, and her thoughts on the industry’s future. Check out her interview by clicking here.
Layton’s recognition highlights not only her individual accomplishments but also Delaware Hospice’s continued commitment to excellence in hospice and palliative care.

