2020 HME Woman of the Year Open for Nominations

The fifth annual edition of VGM’s awards program recognizing women who have made significant contributions to the industry is taking nominations until Aug. 14.

• By David Kopf
• Jul 16, 2020

The 2020 HME Woman of the Year program is now accepting nominations through Aug. 14. Nominations can be submitted at www.vgm.com/womanoftheyear.

Now in its fifth year, the VGM-sponsored award recognizes one woman in the industry who has made significant contributions to her company, community, and the HME industry. 

“The HME Woman of the Year award provides recognition and visibility for exceptional leaders in our industry,” said Clint Geffert, president of VGM & Associates. “Whether through advocacy work, sharing expertise at industry meetings, or by being innovative to grow business or streamline operations, this award recognizes a woman who is blazing a path for the future.”

Last year, 55 women were nominated from HME provider businesses, manufacturers and associations, with Wendy Russalesi, chief compliance officer at AdaptHealth, honored as 2019’s winner. Russalesi’s fellow finalists included Donna Cady, the managing director of Mercy Health St. Rita’s Medical Center; Deb Kalk, the CEO and president of Reliable Medical Supply; and Leigh Ann Mathews, ATP, CRTS of Complete Care Stores. 

 “The 2019 finalists were all incredible advocates for their patients and their industry,” Russalesi said. “The work of women in the HME industry is truly impactful to people throughout the country.” 

Along with her fellow past winners, Russalesi is now part of the committee that will select future winners.  

HME Woman of the Year nominations are open to all women in the industry, regardless of title or position. The winner will be announced during a virtual ceremony on Oct. 22.