NACDD Honors Leaders in Chronic Disease Prevention
The National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD) takes immense pride in revealing its winners for this year's Impact Awards, a significant recognition for individuals and programs making strides in public health. This laudable event occurred during the Association's Annual Business Meeting, celebrating efforts to combat chronic disease through collaboration and innovation.
The NACDD's Impact Awards shine a light on the diverse strategies employed to tackle chronic diseases across the nation. Efforts range from data modernization initiatives to enhancing preventive screening outreach and broadening access to healthcare services. The honorees serve as inspirational models of how public health leadership fosters healthier communities nationwide.
The Interim CEO of NACDD, Jeanne Alongi, DrPH, MPH, expressed the importance of these awards, stating, "The Impact Awards are one of the most meaningful traditions we have as an Association. They highlight the extraordinary accomplishments of our Members—whether leading on broader platforms, reinforcing community connections, or driving innovation. This year’s awardees exemplify how progress in chronic disease prevention is realized through the unwavering commitment of public health professionals who persevere through various challenges to enhance lives."
Recognizing Outstanding Contributions
The nominations for the Impact Awards are submitted by NACDD Members, thoroughly assessed by a committee composed of the Association's Board of Directors. This year's committee was led by At Large Director Barbara Wallace from New York, alongside notable members such as Lainey Faulkner from Kansas, David Hoffman from New York, Kimberly McDonald from North Carolina, and Ashley Minaei from Alaska.
Barbara Wallace remarked on the collective efforts of the awardees, saying, "What stood out to me about this year's honorees is not just their individual achievements, but how they have uplifted others along the way. Through mentoring, forming community partnerships, and engaging in cross-sector collaborations, these public health champions are ensuring that their impact is both lasting and widely shared. It’s always inspiring to witness the passion and dedication displayed by so many in our field."
This Year’s Honorees
The following individuals and programs received prestigious recognition this year:
Community Impact Award (Chronic Disease Unit)
Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Division, Minnesota Department of Health, and its partners for the Sage Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program.
Community Impact Award (Individual)
Yvonka M. Hall, Executive Director of the Northeast Ohio Black Health Coalition.
Community Impact Award (Individual)
Terri Swartout, School Health Coordinator with the Minnesota Department of Education.
Health for All Award
Casey Eastman, Deputy Director at the Office of Family and Community Health Improvement, Washington State Department of Health.
Chronic Disease Innovator Award
The Long Covid Team, Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Division, Minnesota Department of Health.
Data Systems Change Leadership Award (Team)
Minnesota's Chronic Disease Data Modernization Team at Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
Data Systems Change Leadership Award (Individual)
Katie Zimmerman, Senior Business Analyst at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
Joseph W. Cullen Excellence Award
Maurizio Nichele, Retired GI Surgeon and Program Director of the colorectal cancer screening program at the State of Connecticut Department of Corrections.
Rising Star Award
Courtney Ramsey-Coleman, Healthy Eating and Nutrition Security Coordinator at the Division of Public Health, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
Mentor Award
Julie Sergeant, Deputy Bureau Director, Bureau of Health Promotion at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Ruth Petersen, Former Director of the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Contact Information for Further Inquiries
For additional information, please reach out to Stacey Evans. The NACDD continues to support and enable public health leaders across the country in their mission to improve health outcomes through innovative strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Impact Awards by NACDD?
The Impact Awards are a recognition program by the NACDD that honors innovative approaches in chronic disease prevention and public health leadership.
Who are this year's honorees?
This year's awards recognized multiple individuals and programs, including those from Minnesota's Department of Health and public health leaders like Yvonka M. Hall.
How are the nominees selected for the Impact Awards?
Nominations are submitted by NACDD Members and reviewed by a committee of the Association's Board of Directors.
Why are these awards significant?
They highlight the vital work and commitment of public health professionals who work tirelessly to mitigate chronic diseases and promote healthier communities.
Where can I find more information about NACDD and its initiatives?
For more details, information can be obtained directly from NACDD's office or their official website.
