Recognizing Excellence in Immunization Efforts
The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) has proudly announced the awardees of the 2026 APhA Immunization Champion Awards. These awards shine a light on the outstanding contributions of individuals, pharmacy teams, and organizations committed to enhancing vaccination access, delivery, and public health outcomes throughout the nation.
Acknowledging Unsung Heroes
The Immunization Champion Awards celebrate the indispensable role pharmacy professionals play in immunization efforts. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly alongside their partners to expand access to vaccines, bolster public confidence in immunizations, and promote community health.
Voices of Impact
Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, FFIP, and the executive vice president and CEO of APhA, expressed his thoughts, stating, "These honorees exemplify innovation, collaboration, and commitment to ensuring vaccines reach the patients and communities who need them most." This sentiment reflects the spirit of the awards, emphasizing their significance in bolstering immunization efforts nationwide.
Meet the 2026 Award Recipients
The 2026 APhA Immunization Champion Award recipients hail from diverse areas within the pharmacy profession, showcasing varying contributions to public health. Here are some of the most notable winners:
Corporate/Institution Winners
National winner: Elements Pharmacy, Studio City, CA
Honorable mention: University of Maryland School of Pharmacy's Peter Lamy Center on Drug Therapy and Aging, Baltimore, MD
Outstanding Pharmacy Team Member
National winner: Chyanne Coe, Semmes, AL
Honorable mention: Abby L. Bode, Cincinnati, OH
Friend of Pharmacy
National winner: Helene McDowell, Madison, WI
Honorable mention: Charlene A. Wong, Chapel Hill, NC
Individual Practitioner Acknowledgments
National winner: Alanna R. Scott, Florence, SC
Honorable mention: Benjamin Prewitt, Cincinnati, OH
Lifetime Achievement Recognition
National winner: Sandy (Jeong Yeon) Rhie, Seoul, South Korea
Honorable mention: Robert Yagar, Long Beach, CA
Travel Health Achievements
National winner: Raana Sidky, Eastvale, CA
These nominees were evaluated based on their innovative strategies and collaborative efforts that have worked to expand immunization services and improve vaccination rates across communities.
A Grand Presentation
The prestigious 2026 APhA Immunization Champion Awards will be formally presented at a special reception honoring the extraordinary achievements of these recipients. This event represents not just the culmination of hard work but also a celebration of collective efforts to improve public health through vaccination.
Support and Recognition
This year's awards program is supported by industry leaders such as Pfizer, Merck, Moderna, and VaxServe, a Sanofi Company. Their collaboration helps elevate and recognize the unwavering commitment of pharmacists and their teams across the country.
APhA's Commitment to Public Health
Founded in 1852, APhA is dedicated to advancing the pharmacy profession while supporting pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians in their critical roles. APhA provides essential advocacy, education, resources, and opportunities for members to engage in best practices that enhance patient care and public health.
Through continued efforts, APhA expresses immense gratitude to over 500,000 pharmacy professionals dedicated to administering vaccinations and making a measurable difference in public health.
About APhA
APhA has long been foundational in shaping policies and practices that advance not just the profession but also improve patient outcomes. The organization drives the pharmacy profession by offering resources that empower pharmacists to provide the best possible care.
For more information about APhA's initiatives and commitment to public health, please visit their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the APhA Immunization Champion Awards?
The APhA Immunization Champion Awards recognize outstanding achievements in improving vaccine access and public health.
Who qualifies for these awards?
Awards are given to individuals, pharmacy professionals, teams, and organizations making significant contributions to immunization efforts.
When will the awards be presented?
The awards will be formally presented at a special reception honoring the recipients in 2026.
How does APhA support public health initiatives?
APhA supports public health through advocacy, education, and resources that empower pharmacy professionals.
Who are some notable winners from this year's awards?
Notable winners include Elements Pharmacy and Chyanne Coe, ensuring outstanding contributions are highlighted.
