Each year AHF is pleased to highlight the best of the self-operated foodservice industry in senior living and healthcare. AHF awards operators and business partners for their contributions across multiple awards. Check out AHF’s YouTube channel for videos displaying the amazing work of the many individuals listed below. Or, use the “by year” award listing for links to specific individuals videos.
Lifetime Achievement Award
This award is the Association’s highest honor, recognizing individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the field of self-operated healthcare foodservice, demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to the core values of AHF. It recognizes operator members who best exemplify the leadership and spirit of Jacques Bloch and Angelo Gagliano the founders of our legacy organizations. Those who have distinguished themselves through their contributions to AHF, the healthcare foodservice profession, their employers, the community, and the embodiment of AHF’s values.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Eric Eisenberg
Eric Eisenberg has made so many impactful contributions to the Association for Healthcare Foodservice (AHF) as well as the healthcare and senior dining industries as a whole. Since AHF’s inception and through its legacy associations, Eric has built an industry legacy. Beginning as the emcee for culinary competitions and a former culinary winner himself, Eric’s leadership within AHF has been unwavering. He has served on numerous committees, including as President of the Washington Chapter and co-chair of the 2018 National Conference. Eric’s journey led him to the AHF Board of Directors, serving as president in 2022.
In the foodservice industry, Eric’s impact extends beyond AHF. At Swedish Medical Center, he enhanced the menu and room service, reducing costs while boosting patient satisfaction. His tenure at Rogue Valley Manor saw him navigate crises like COVID-19 and wildfires, all while pioneering plant-forward dining options. Eric’s community involvement includes supporting employee scholarships through a golf tournament and contributing to the Asante Children’s Miracle Network.
As a leader, Eric made the elevation of foodservice in healthcare and senior dining to restaurant-quality standards a cornerstone of his career. Prior to leading healthcare and senior dining operations, he has an extensive history in international and commercial culinary settings, with classic French culinary training. His advocacy for chefs in healthcare has reshaped industry perceptions, earning him accolades like the 2020 IFMA Silver Plate Award in Healthcare. Eric’s commitment to AHF and healthcare foodservice underscores his eligibility for the AHF Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his enduring impact and leadership.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner(s): Mary Cooley & Thom Cooley |
| 2022 Winner: Tom Thaman, Retired, Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2021 Winner: Martha Rardin, Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN |
| 2020 Winner: Dave Reeves, Lee Health | Fort Myers, FL |
| 2019 Winner: Randy Sparrow, ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| 2018 Winner: Tony Almeida, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| 2017 Winner: Dan Henroid, UCSF Health | San Francisco, CA |
| 2016 Winner: Julie Jones, OSU Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH |
| 2015 Winner: Beth Yesford, Providence Hospital | Washington, DC |
| 2014 Winner: Patti Oliver, UCLA Medical Center | Los Angeles, CA |
| 2013 Winner: Denisa Cate, Henry County Medical Center | Paris, TN |
| 2012 Winner: Laura Watson, Utah Valley Regional Medical Center | Provo, UT |
| 2011 Winner: Kris Schroeder, Swedish Health Services - First Hill | Seattle, WA |
| 2010 Winner: Deanne Carlisle, Portland VAMC | Portland, OR & Bruce Thomas Geisinger Health System | Daville, PA |
Making A Difference Award
The Making A Difference Award is one of our highest honors. This important distinction is given to an individual in honor and memory of the beloved John Cabot and is the association’s top honor for both business partners and media. It is presented to someone who has made significant contributions to AHF in the long tradition of steadfast and selfless industry leadership and volunteerism.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Stephanie Gilbert, BSI & Food Service Holdings
Stephanie’s legacy at the Association for Healthcare Foodservice (AHF) is long and she is so often the first call someone makes when they need help. She served on the AHF Industry Advisory Board (IAB) for five years, from 2019 to 2023, culminating in her role as Chair of the IAB alongside 2022 AHF President, Eric Eisenberg. During this period, she provided invaluable insights and leadership, steering the board through significant challenges and constant strategic shuffling in the aftermath of COVID.
Stephanie has been an active participant in multiple AHF committees, consistently sharing her expertise. She played a crucial role in helping AHF transition to a self-operated management model in 2019. In 2020, she served as Chair of AHF’s Conference Planning Committee alongside Angela O’Neill. Despite the cancellation of the in-person conference they successfully pivoted to host one of the industry’s most successful virtual conferences. In 2008 she received the 2008 ASHFA Presidential Service Award.
She has an actual life-long history in the industry through her mother, Ellen, but she has carved her own path as an industry leader and a trusted partner. She has supported AHF through her time with many longstanding AHF business partners including Hobart and now BSI. Stephanie’s contributions have made a difference. They will echo for years to come. She is a true industry veteran, and her service, leadership, and dedication continue to lead the way in healthcare, senior dining, and hospitality.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Karen Horsley, Sysco |
| 2022 Winner: Danielle Mason, The Middleby Corporation |
| 2021 Winner: Ralph Goldbeck, Kitchens To Go by mobile modular |
| 2020 Winner: Annemarie Vaupel, Hormel Foods |
| 2019 Winner: Rob Geile, Ali Group |
| 2018 Winner: Christine Guyott, Rippe Associates |
| 2017 Winner: Mark Lewandowski, General Mills |
| 2016 Winner: Maureen Leugers, Gordon Food Service |
| 2015 Winner: Todd Griffith, Alto-Shaam, Inc. |
| 2014 Winner: Dick Hynes, Hobart Corporation |
| 2013 Winner: Cindy Parker, Basic American Foods |
| 2012 Winner: Marty Rothschild, Aladdin Temp-Rite |
| 2011 Winner: Barbara Kane, Ecolab, Inc. |
| 2010 Winner: Marie Nelson |
Exemplary Leadership Award
This award will be bestowed upon the operator member who best reflects the commitment to operational excellence that Don Marsh brought to healthcare foodservice. Don Marsh, former president of the American Society for Healthcare Food Service Administrators (ASHFSA), was a longtime supporter of programs to raise professionalism of operators in the healthcare foodservice industry and was known to contribute generously in these areas. The award recognizes exemplary member contributions in their operations as well as to regional, local chapters or networking meetings.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Duilio Dasilva, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center
Duilio’s tenure at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center (LWRMC) showcases exceptional initiative and resourcefulness. As Executive Chef since 2008 and recently promoted to Director, he spearheaded the transition from contract to self-operation, alongside shifting from a system-level to a single-hospital directed model. Under his leadership, LWRMC experienced significant growth in patient and catering volumes, with a new 120-bed patient tower underway, including a new kitchen.
Duilio’s impact is evident across various fronts: he revitalized the doctors’ lounge with menu changes and enhanced service, boosting on-site doctor retention. He innovated the café with a salad bar, sushi offerings, and improved menu displays, leading to a 10% increase in café volumes. Patient satisfaction at LWRMC ranks top 5 in UHS, often taking the #1 spot in food quality. During crises like Hurricane Idalia, he ensured uninterrupted food service, demonstrating strong leadership.
Certified as a CEC and CCA, Duilio’s professional growth includes culinary medicine and AHF webinars, enhancing his skills in self-op leadership. His servant leadership approach fosters high staff engagement and community impact, setting a benchmark in healthcare foodservice leadership.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Ryan Conklin, UNC Rex Healthcare |
| 2022 Winner: Angelo Mojica, Johns Hopkins Health System | Baltimore, MD |
| 2021 Winner: Angela O’Neill, Hunterdon Medical Center | Hunterdon, NJ |
| 2020 Winner: Neal Lavender, JPS Health Network | Fort Worth, TX |
| 2019 Winner: Timothy Schoonmaker, Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| 2018 Winner: Thomas Thaman, Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2017 Winner: Randy Sparrow, ProHealth Care Hospital | Waukesha, WI |
| 2016 Winner: Veronica McLymont, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | New York, NY |
| 2015 Winner: Tony Almeida, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| 2014 Winner: Joyce Hagen-Flint, HCA West Florida Division | Largo, FL |
| 2013 Winner: Eric Eisenberg, Swedish Health Services – First Hill | Seattle, WA |&| Betty Perez, NYU Langone Medical Center | New York, NY |
| 2012 Winner: Becky Amt, Indiana University Health Morgan Hospital | Martinsville IN |
| 2011 Winner: Mimi Wang, VA New York Harbor HC System | Brooklyn, NY |
| 2010 Winner: Mark Eggleston, Overlake Hospital Medical Center | Bellevue, WA |
Future Horizon Award
This award recognizes self-operator members with 1-5 years of management experience who have demonstrated exceptional leadership potential and the ability to implement strategic plans that positively impact their hospital and community.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Kaitlyn Greb, Midland Memorial Hospital
Kaitlyn, a dedicated healthcare leader at Midland Memorial Hospital, embodies resilience and innovation in her role as Director of Food and Nutrition. With a robust educational background including dual Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Healthcare Administration from Texas Woman’s University, and a Bachelor’s in Dietetics and Nutrition from Keiser University, Kaitlyn navigated significant challenges such as the onset of the pandemic and the Texas freeze crisis. She prioritized employee welfare, ensuring continuity in hospital operations amidst adversity.
Her commitment goes beyond crisis management; Kaitlyn actively contributes to the advancement of healthcare foodservice through mentorship and community service. Engaged with AHF for over five years, she leverages AHF resources, including forums and national conferences, to enhance her leadership skills and departmental operations. Kaitlyn’s proactive approach and strategic use of AHF insights have not only fortified her confidence as a leader but also facilitated her hospital’s growth, evidenced by ongoing expansions and service improvements.
Her vision for the future includes fostering talent in healthcare foodservice and continuing to champion self-operation models that elevate patient care standards. Kaitlyn’s journey underscores the transformative impact of AHF in nurturing leadership and excellence within the healthcare community.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Christopher Voorman, The House of the Good Shepherd at Riverwalk Village |
| 2022 Winner:Almarie Talavera, JPS Health Network | Ft. Worth, TX |
| 2021 Winner: Alicia Preston, Rogue Valley Manor | Medford, OR |
| 2020 Winner: Brian Dixson, Geisinger Health System | Coal Township, PA |
| 2019 Winner: Andrew Bergman, ProHealth Care System | Waukesha, WI |
| 2018 Winner: Michael Kasperek, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| 2017 Winner: Greg Andrews, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital | Lewistown, PA |
| 2016 Winner: David Edwards, Elmhurst Memorial Hospital | Lombard, IL |&| Mary Ruzzi, Geisinger Health System | Scranton, PA |
| 2015 Winner: Timothy Gee, Robert Wood Johnson University | New Brunswick, NJ |
| 2014 Winner: Nicholas Mercogliano, Robert Wood Johnson University Medical Center | New Brunswick, NJ |
| 2013 Winner: Aatul Jain, Saint Clare’s Health System | Denville, NJ |
| 2012 Winner: Yusie Kim, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY |
| 2011 Winner: Tamara Almquist, Geisinger Marworth | Waverly, PA |
| 2010 Winner: Cedric Junearick, Huntsville Hospital | Huntsville, AL |
Partnership in Leadership Award
This award recognizes an operator and an administrator (non-foodservice) who have demonstrated a strong commitment to nutritional food service by self-operation and currently support the foodservice director or foodservice administrative director. This award celebrates the power of collaboration and the impact that can be achieved when two individuals work together to improve patient care and outcomes.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Patrick Lamont & Diana Sullivan, One Brooklyn Health
Patrick LaMont and Diana Sullivan’s partnership at One Brooklyn Health shows visionary leadership and collaborative success in healthcare foodservice. Their project, born from a nursing staffing restructuring initiative, aimed to enhance direct patient care by shifting tray-passing responsibilities from nursing to dietary. Patrick meticulously developed this program with input from his management team, AHF resources, and aligned with administrative objectives, including a detailed staffing plan and comprehensive training regimen.
Their pilot program, which launched on the 11th floor, swiftly demonstrated significant improvements in patient satisfaction scores and nursing efficiency, prompting its rapid hospital-wide adoption within 30 days. This success underscores their innovative approach and operational impact, advocating for streamlined self-operation models adaptable across diverse healthcare settings.
Utilizing AHF educational tools and community insights, Patrick and Diana maximized cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency, avoiding costly external consultations. Their strong partnership with administrators at OBH facilitated a transformative change rooted in mutual respect and shared goals, emphasizing the importance of collaborative leadership in healthcare settings. Their achievements not only elevate patient care standards but also inspire future initiatives within AHF member institutions.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: David Reeves & Armando Llecho, Lee Memorial Health System |
| 2022 Winner: Randy Sparrow & Phil Kubow, ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| 2021 Winner: Seth Grant & Lois Dennison, Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2020 Winner: Joe Archambeault, Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| 2019 Winner: Kathy Kelsing, Franciscan Health | Michigan City, IN |
| 2018 Winner: Cheryl Koch and Linda Paren, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center | Baltimore, MD |
| 2017 Winner: Cheryl Shimmin for work with CEO Fred Manchur, Kettering Health Network | Kettering, OH |
| 2016 Winner: 2016 Angela O’Neill for work with her SRVP, Hunterdon Healthcare | Flemington, NJ |
| 2015 Winner: Deedra Hoffart, Avista Adventist Hospital | Louisville, CO |
| 2014 Winner: Martha Rardin, Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN |&| Thomas Thaman, Eskenazi Health | Indianpolis IN |
| 2013 Winner: Julie Jones and Administrators Randy Allen, Kent Hess & Mary Angela Miller, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH |
| 2012 Winner: Operator Jim Behnke and Administrator Jay Dennard, Gwinnett Medical Center | Lawrenceville, GA |
| 2011 Winner: Operator Angelo Mojica and Administrator Melvin Hurston, University of North Carolina Hospitals | Chapel Hill, NC |&| Cyndi Roberts and Administrator Scott Seaborn, Saint Joseph Memorial Hospital | Murphysboro, IL |
| 2010 Winner: Robert Darrah and Administrator Jerry Joyce, Legacy Retirement Communities | Lincoln, NE |&| Nancy Geffre and Administrator Kay Santema, Sandford Medical Center | Sioux Falls, SD |
Spotlight Award
This award recognizes operator members who have enhanced operations through new ideas and industry trends. This may include implementing new technologies, program development, innovative ideas, projects or initiatives that promote sustainability, community impact initiatives, mergers/acquisitions, and/or creative use of managing finances. As of 2025, awards that would have fallen under the Spotlight category will be submitted through the new Impact and Innovation Award.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Nazim Khan, Bryan Health
Nazim Khan, a seasoned hospitality professional with roots in the Marriott system, has evolved into a pioneering chef and leader at Bryan Medical Center. Inspired by personal and professional experiences, Nazim spearheaded the establishment of Bryan Bean coffee shop and a state-of-the-art catering/teaching kitchen tailored for oncology patients at the April Sampson Cancer Center. His initiative also extended to developing a comprehensive cookbook focused on nutrition for health and recovery, leveraging local ingredients like sorghum and wheatberries.
Facing challenges such as coordinating diverse stakeholders and integrating complex dietary needs, Nazim navigated these hurdles with strategic vision and collaboration. The project’s impact has been substantial, evidenced by improved patient care, heightened nutrition standards, and enhanced operational sustainability. Key performance indicators underscored achievements, including increased department revenue by 15-20% following the Bryan Bean launch.
Nazim’s leadership has been pivotal in fostering a culture of creativity and community within Bryan Health, evidenced by his educational outreach and engagement with the Nebraska Food Council. His holistic approach to healthcare food services, exemplified by simplified cooking classes and an accessible video library, reflects his commitment to supporting patients through practical nutrition solutions.
Nazim Khan’s journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a deep-seated commitment to enhancing healthcare through culinary excellence and compassionate leadership. His insights and accomplishments serve as a beacon for future initiatives within the AHF community and beyond.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Caroline Parcel, Hunterdon Health |
| 2022 Winner:Joe Ninnemann, Advocate Aurora Health | Campbellsport, WI |
| 2021 Winner: Erica Block, Rush University Medical Center | |
| 2020 Winner: Kevin Vos, Spectrum Health | Grand Rapids, MI |
| 2019 Winner: Seth Grant, Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2018 Winner: Margaret Kipe, Kristen Brudereck, Rachael Wehn, Reading Hospital | West Reading, PA |
| 2017 Winner: Jennifer Larson and Sara Ashbeck, Gundersen Health System | La Crosse, WI |&| Mark Dunn and Kas Logan, Providence Health and Services | Portland, OR |
| 2016 Winner: Becky Amt and Evelyn Sexton, IU Health Bloomington Hospital | Bloomington, IN |
| 2015 Winner: Michael Atanasio, Overlook Medical Center | Springfield, NJ |&| Ami Bhow, UCSF Medical Center | San Francisco, CA |
| 2014 Winner: Crystal McVey, Huntsville Hospital | Huntsville, AL |&| Lisa Poggas and Daniel Skay, Castle Rock Adventist Hospital | Castle Rock, CO |
| 2013 Winner: Dan Henroid, University of California – San Francisco Medical Center | San Francisco, CA |&| Angelo Mojica, UNC Hospitals | Chapel Hill, NC |
| 2012 Winner: Steve Howell, Lexington Medical Center | West Columbia, SC |&| Tom Thaman, Wishard Health Services | Indianapolis, IN |
| 2011 Winner: Amy Miller, Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital & Clinic | Prairie du Sac, WI |
| 2010 Winner: Dan Henroid, University of California San Francisco Medical Center | San Francisco, CA |&| Khaleed Khan, Alberta Health Services | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |&| Annemarie Price, VA Medical Center | Martinsburg, WV |
Sustainability Award
This award recognizes an operator member who demonstrates exceptional leadership in waste reduction, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. Winners have implemented and expanded innovative and creative programs focused on reduction of single use disposables, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, locally sourced food (such as the Good Food Purchasing Program), energy conservation, food donation programs, food waste reduction, composting and recycling, water conservation, educating consumers, and more. As of 2025, awards for sustainability work will be submitted through the new Impact and Innovation Award.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: Darren Renz, Ohio Health
Darren Renz from OhioHealth has led a robust sustainability initiative focusing on landfill diversion and enhancing sustainable practices in retail operations. Key challenges included high costs associated with implementing anaerobic digesters and transitioning away from polystyrene containers. By leveraging partnerships with GFS and Entegra, Darren offset expenses and achieved a remarkable $44,000 annual savings. His innovative solutions included establishing animal feed programs and partnering with local farms and composting facilities to manage food waste sustainably.
Prioritization aligned seamlessly with OhioHealth’s board objectives, ensuring quarterly progress reports exceeded goals. Metrics were crucial, with clear tracking through digital systems and GFS reporting, facilitating buy-in and support. Results included eliminating polystyrene and diverting significant waste from landfills: 40 tons to digesters, 7 tons donated, and 4 tons composted annually.
Darren’s approach exemplifies leadership through collaboration with stakeholders like EarthPeak Organics and local charities, amplifying sustainability impacts. His advice stresses senior leadership support, cost neutrality, and metric-driven tracking for successful sustainability projects. Conflict resolution involved educating operators on environmental impacts, demonstrating Darren’s commitment to continuous improvement and community engagement in sustainability efforts.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Lisa Yeung, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer |
| 2022 Winner: Not Awarded |
| 2021 Winner: Gina Sadowski, Seattle Children’s Hospital | Seattle, WA |
| 2020 Winner: Rochelle Drexler, Aspirus Wausau Hospital | Wausau, WI |
| 2019 Winner: Dawn Cascio, The Valley Hospital | Ridgewood, NJ (Inaugural year) |
Benchmarking Express Award
This award recognizes a healthcare facility that has used AHF Benchmarking Express™ consistently showed improvement in KPI’s and utilized data to improve their operations. As of 2025, the work that would have been given under this category will be submitted through the new Impact and Innovation Award for consideration.
2024 Winner
The AHF Benchmarking Express Award was not awarded in 2024
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Julie Meddles, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center |
| 2022 Winner: Wren Roberts, Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| 2021 Winner: Heather Duffy, JFK Medical Center | Edison, NJ |
| 2020 Winner: Not Awarded |
| 2019 Winner: Mary Houston, Mercy Joplin | Joplin, MO |
| 2018 Winner: Randall Sparrow and the ProHealth Care Team, ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| 2017 Winner: Steve Cerullo, Geisinger Medical Center | Wilkes Barre, PA |
| 2016 Winner: Jeanine Drake, Flagstaff Medical Center | Flagstaff, AZ |
| 2015 Winner: Marge Kipe, Reading Hospital | Reading, PA (Inaugural Year) |
Chapter of the Year Award
This award recognizes an AHF Local Chapter that demonstrates exceptional commitment to the Association’s mission of providing a professional network, resources, and tools to promote self-operated foodservice and hospitality in healthcare, senior dining, and related industries. As of 2025, the great work of AHF’s chapters can be submitted under the Impact and Innovation award for consideration.
2024 Winner
Awarded To: AHF New Jersey Chapter
The AHF-NJ chapter, established over 40 years ago, has shown growth in membership, boasting 143 operators, 3 students, and 26 business partners as of March 2024. Over the past three years, they’ve achieved a 63% increase in membership, with 15 new national members joining in 2023-2024. This growth is bolstered by engaging events like the Healthcare Foodservice Workers Week Recognition Dinner and annual symposium, featuring fun themes and a culinary competition.
Community outreach is a cornerstone of their efforts, highlighted by annual contributions to local food banks and mentoring programs for interns and students. Their collaboration with AHF National includes active participation in webinars, conferences, and committee roles, with a strong presence at the 2023 AHF National Conference and ongoing advocacy for self-operated foodservice.
Unique to AHF-NJ is their emphasis on in-person events, strong member engagement through themed meetings, and strategic partnerships with universities and culinary schools for recruitment and retention. Their commitment to education, community impact, and national advocacy sets AHF-NJ apart as a leader in self-operated healthcare foodservice.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: New York Chapter |
| 2022 Winner: Philadelphia South Jersey Chapter |
| 2021 Winner: New Jersey Chapter |
| 2020 Winner: Philadelphia South Jersey Chapter |
| 2019 Winner: Wisconsin Chapter |
| 2018 Winner: New York Chapter |
| 2017 Winner: New Jersey Chapter (Inaugural year) |
Presidential Service Awards
The AHF Presidential Service Awards are a distinguished honor given by the AHF President to individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional service to AHF over the past year, as well as throughout their history with the organization.
2024 Winner(s)
Awarded To: David Brue, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
David Brue received the 2024 Presidential Service Award from President Leisa Bryant for his outstanding dedication and excellence. His significant contributions have greatly enhanced the success and growth of AHF’s culinary competition and conference food program. David’s generous mentorship of other AHF chefs and collaboration with staff have infused excitement and culinary excellence into events, making a significant impact on AHF’s overall mission.
Awarded To: Joe Carbonara, FE&S Magazine
Joe Carbonara received the 2024 Presidential Service Award from AHF President Leisa Bryant in recognition of his outstanding and long-time contributions to AHF and its members. Joe always lends his time, expertise, and skills across multiple committees exemplifying his commitment to the organization. Joe’s support of AHF’s strategic plans, mentorship of new members, and use of his platform to amplify AHF’s mission for self-operation make him exceptionally deserving of this honor.
All Past Winners
| Past Winners |
|---|
| 2023 Winner: Ami Patel, UCSF Medical Center, Mission Bay Sergio Alonso, Lee Memorial Health System |
| 2022 Winner: Angela O’Neill, Hunterdon Medical Center | Hunterdon, NJ |
| 2021 Winner: Cyndi Roberts, Saint Joseph Memorial Hospital | Murphysboro, IL Tim Schoonmaker, Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| 2020 Winner: Eric Eisenberg, Rogue Valley Manor | Medford, OR Martha Rardin, Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN |
| 2019 Winner: Dave Reeves, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital | Memphis, TN Joanne McMillian, Saint Clare’s Hospital | Denville, NJ |
| 2018 Winner: Bill Marks, Hennepin Healthcare | Minneapolis, MN Cindy Parker Basic American Foods | Mill Valley, CA Randy Sparrow, ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| 2017 Winners: Christine Guyott, Rippe Associates, Minneapolis, MN Rob Geile, Ali Group, Vernon Hills, IL Nicole Charbonneau, US Army, Gatesville, TX Dan Henroid, UCSF Health, San Francisco, CA Matt Otchet, Computrition, West Hills, CA Joanne McMillian, Saint Clare’s Hospital, Denville, NJ Cyndi Roberts, St. Joseph Memorial Hospital, Murphysboro, IL Cynthia Parker, Basic American Foods, Mill Valley, CA Randall Sparrow, ProHealth Care, Waukesha, WI |
| 2016 Winner:
Larry Altier, Lee Memorial Health System, Fort Myers, FL Mary Kimbrough Mary Angela Miller, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH Drew Patterson, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH Marty Rothschild, Aladdin Temp-Rite, Hendersonville, TN Sandra Sydnor, Purdue University, Lafayette, IN Ann Travis, Children’s Medical Center Dallas, Dallas, TX Laura Watson, Intermountain Healthcare, Provo, UT |
| 2015 Winner:
David Reeves, Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare, Elmhurst, IL Laura Watson, Intermountain Healthcare, Provo, UT |
| 2014 Winner:
Elizabeth Boone, Aultman Hospital, Canton, OH Nicole Charbonneau, San Antonio Military Medical Center, San Antonio, TX Beth Yesford, Providence Hospital Washington, DC |
| 2013 Winner:
Dexter Hancock, Retired from DCH Health System and currently consulting Tuscaloosa, AL Scott Sakla, Computrition, Common CENTS, and DFM – Dietary Food Management West Hills, CA Andrew Shakman, LeanPath, Inc. |
| 2012 Winner:
Todd Griffith, Alto-Shaam, Inc. Westminster, MD Dan Henroid, UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco, CA Julie Jones, Wexner Medical Center at Ohio State University, Columbus, OH |
| 2011 Winner: Marie Nelson, Schwan's Home Service, Inc. Marshall, MN |
| 2010 Winner: Marge Beasley, (Retired) Bloomington Hospital, Bloomington, IN |
Past Winners By Year
2024 Awards
| Chapter of the Year | AHF New Jersey Chapter – Click here to watch their video |
| Exemplary Leadership | Duilio Dasilva, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center – Click here to watch their video |
| Future Horizon | Kaitlyn Greb, Midland Memorial Hospital – Click here to watch their video |
| Partnership in Leadership | Patrick Lamont & Diana Sullivan, One Brooklyn Health – Click here to watch their video |
| Spotlight | Nazim Khan, Bryan Health – Click here to watch their video |
| Sustainability | Darren Renz, Ohio Health – Click here to watch their video |
| Lifetime Achievement | Eric Eisenberg – Click here to watch their video |
| Making A Difference | Stephanie Gilbert, BSI & Food Service Holdings – Click here to watch their video |
| Presidential Special Service | David Brue, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Joe Carbonara, FE&S Magazine |
2023 Awards
| Benchmarking | Julie Meddles, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center – Click here to watch their video |
| Chapter of the Year | AHF NY Chapter – Click here to watch their video |
| Exemplary Leadership | Ryan Conklin, UNC Rex Healthcare – Click here to watch their video |
| Future Horizon | Christopher Voorman, The House of the Good Shepherd at Riverwalk Village – Click here to watch their video |
| Partnership in Leadership | David Reeves & Armando Llecho, Lee Memorial Health System – Click here to watch their video |
| Spotlight | Caroline Parcel, Hunterdon Health – Click here to watch their video |
| Sustainability | Lisa Yeung, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer – Click here to watch their video |
| Lifetime Achievement | Tom Cooley, Retired Operator and Educator |&|Mary Cooley, Pennswood Village, Newtown, PA – Click here to watch their video |
| Making A Difference | Karen Horsley, Sysco Corporation – Click here to watch their video |
| Presidential Special Service | Ami Patel, UCSF Medical Center, Mission Bay |
2022 Awards
| Benchmarking | Wren Roberts – click here for their video Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| Chapter of the Year | Philadelphia/South Jersey Chapter – click here for their video |
| Exemplary Leadership | Angelo Mojica Johns Hopkins Health System | Baltimore, MD |
| Future Horizon | Almarie Talavera – click here for their video JPS Health Network | Ft. Worth, TX |
| Partnership in Leadership | Randy Sparrow & Phil Kubow – click here for their video ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| Spotlight | Joe Ninnemann – click here for their video Advocate Aurora Health | Campbellsport, WI |
| Lifetime Achievement | Tom Thaman – click here for their video Retired, Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| Making a Difference | Danielle Mason – click here for their video The Middleby Corporation | FL |
| Presidential Special Service | Angela O’Neill Hunterdon Medical Center | Hunterdon, NJ |
2021 Awards
| Benchmarking | Heather Duffy – click here for their video JFK Medical Center | Edison, NJ |
| Chapter of the Year | New Jersey Chapter – click here for their video |
| Exemplary Leadership | Angela O’Neill – click here for their video Hunterdon Medical Center | Hunterdon, NJ |
| Future Horizon | Alicia Preston – click here for their video Rogue Valley Manor | Medford, OR |
| Partnership in Leadership | Seth Grant & Lois Dennison – click here for their video Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| Spotlight | Erica Block – click here for their video Rush University Medical Center | |
| Sustainability | Gina Sadowski – click here for their video Seattle Children’s Hospital | Seattle, WA |
| Lifetime Achievement | Martha Rardin – click here for their video Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN |
| Making a Difference | Ralph Goldbeck – click here for their video Kitchens to Go by mobile modular | Fresno, CA |
| Presidential Special Service | Cyndi Roberts Saint Joseph Memorial Hospital | Murphysboro, IL Tim Schoonmaker Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
2020 Awards
| Chapter of the Year | Philadelphia South Jersey Chapter – Click here for their video |
| Exemplary Leadership | Neal Lavender – click here for their video JPS Health Network | Fort Worth, TX |
| Future Horizon | Brian Dixson – click here for their video Geisinger Health System | Coal Township, PA |
| Partnership in Leadership | Joe Archambeault – click here for their video Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| Spotlight | Kevin Vos – click here for their video Spectrum Health | Grand Rapids, MI |
| Sustainability | Rochelle Drexler – click here for their video Aspirus Wausau Hospital | Wausau, WI |
| Lifetime Achievement | Dave Reeves – click here for their video Lee Health | Fort Myers, FL |
| Making a Difference | Annemarie Vaupel – click here for their video Hormel Foods Corporation | Austin, MN |
| Presidential Special Service | Eric Eisenberg Rogue Valley Manor | Medford, OR Martha Rardin Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN |
2019 Awards
| Benchmarking | Mary Houston Mercy Joplin | Joplin, MO |
| Chapter of the Year | Wisconsin Chapter |
| Exemplary Leadership | Timothy Schoonmaker Centra Health | Lynchburg, VA |
| Future Horizon | Andrew Bergman ProHealth Care System | Waukesha, WI |
| Partnership in Leadership | Kathy Kesling Franciscan Health | Michigan City, IN |
| Spotlight | Seth Grant Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| Sustainability | Dawn Cascio The Valley Hospital | Ridgewood, NJ |
| Lifetime Achievement | Randy Sparrow ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| Making a Difference | Rob Geile Ali Group | Vernon Hills, IL |
| Presidential Special Service | Dave Reeves St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital | Memphis, TN Joanne McMillian Saint Clare’s Hospital | Denville, NJ |
2018 Awards
| Benchmarking | Randy Sparrow and the ProHealth Care Team – click here for their video ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| Chapter of the Year | New York Chapter |
| Exemplary Leadership | Thomas Thaman – click here for their video Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| Future Horizon | Michael Kasperek – click here for their video Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Partnership in Leadership | Cheryl Koch & Linda Paren – click here for their video Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center | Baltimore, MD |
| Spotlight | Margaret Kipe, Kristen Brudereck & Rachael Wehn – click here for their video Reading Hospital | West Reading, PA |
| Lifetime Achievement | Tony Almeida – click here for their video Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Making a Difference | Christine Guyott – click here for their video Rippe Associates | Minneapolis, MN |
| Presidential Special Service | Bill Marks – For his dedication and efforts in leading the Membership, Organization, and Dues task force. His work led to a successful relaunch of our membership and dues structure for operator members. Hennepin Healthcare | Minneapolis, MN Cindy Parker – For her dedication and efforts in leading the Membership, Organization, and Dues task force. Her work has led to membership data capturing efforts that will lead to a better understanding of our operator membership. Basic American Foods | Mill Valley, CA Randy Sparrow – For leading our conference attendance promotion efforts on behalf of the Board. ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
2017 Awards
| Benchmarking | Steve Cerullo – click here for their video Geisinger Medical Center | Wilkes Barre, PA |
| Chapter of the Year – NEW! | New Jersey |
| Exemplary Leadership | Randy Sparrow – click here for their video ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
| Future Horizon | Greg Andrews – click here for their video Geisinger Lewistown Hospital | Lewistown, PA |
| Partnership in Leadership | Cheryl Shimmin – click here for their video Kettering Health Network | Kettering, OH |
| Spotlight | Jennifer Larson & Sara Ashbeck – click here for their video Gundersen Health System | La Crosse, WI Mark Dunn & Kas Logan – click here for their video Providence Health & Services | Portland, OR |
| Lifetime Achievement | Dan Henroid – click here for their video UCSF Health | San Francisco, CA |
| Making a Difference | Mark Lewandowski – click here for their video General Mills | Minneapolis, MN |
| Presidential Special Service | Christine Guyott – Leading the development of the new 2017 Sponsorship and Marketing Program; Participation on the Technology Advisory Board Rippe Associates | Minneapolis, MN Rob Geile – Leading the new 2017 Sponsorship and Marketing Program Ali Group | Vernon Hills, IL Nicole Charbonneau – Serving on the Technology Advisory Board US Army | Gatesville, TX Dan Henroid – Serving on the Technology Advisory Board UCSF Health | San Francisco, CA Matt Otchet – Serving on the Technology Advisory Board Computrition | West Hills, CA Joanne McMillian – Participating in the AHF Financial Transaction Saint Clare’s Hospital | Denville, NJ Cyndi Roberts – Participating in the AHF Financial Transaction St. Joseph Memorial Hospital | Murphysboro, IL Cynthia Parker – Inaugural leaders for AMG (Association Management Firm) transition Basic American Foods | Mill Valley, CA Randall Sparrow – Inaugural leaders for AMG (Association Management Firm) transition ProHealth Care | Waukesha, WI |
2016 Awards
| Benchmarking | Jeanine Drake – click here for their video Flagstaff Medical Center | Flagstaff AZ |
| Exemplary Leadership | Veronica McLymont – click here for their video Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center | New York, NY |
| Future Horizon | David Edwards – click here for their video Elmhurst Memorial Hospital | Lombard, IL Mary Ruzzi – click here for their video Geisinger Health System | Scranton, PA |
| Partnership in Leadership | Angela O’Neill – click here for their video Hunterdon Healthcare | Flemington, NJ |
| Spotlight | Becky Amt and Evelyn Sexton – click here for their video IU Health Bloomington Hospital | Bloomington, IN |
| Lifetime Achievement | Julie Jones – click here for her video OSU Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH |
| Making a Difference | Maureen Leugers – click here for video Gordon Food Service | Grand Rapids, MI |
| Presidential Special Service | Larry Altier – Presented on behalf of AHF at the National Restaurant Show “Non-Commercial” segment workshop Lee Memorial Health System | Fort Myers, FL Mary Kimbrough – For her work with serving as a resource and assisting the Conference Planning Committee with planning the pre-conference activities at the annual conference. Mary Angela Miller – Presented on behalf of AHF at the National Restaurant Show “Non-Commercial” segment workshop Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH Drew Patterson – Presented on behalf of AHF at the National Restaurant Show “Non-Commercial” segment workshop) Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH Marty Rothschild – Along with Laura Watson led the vetting process of determining if a new association management firm was needed and what company would lead our organization. Aladdin Temp-Rite | Hendersonville, TN Sandra Sydnor – For her work with introducing healthcare as a viable employment option within college & university hospitality programs. Purdue University | Lafayette, IN Ann Travis – For her work along with the efforts of the Texas AHF Chapter to assist as host to the 2016 Annual Conference in Dallas and make our attendees feel welcomed. Children’s Medical Center Dallas | Dallas, TX Laura Watson – Along with Marty Rothschild led the vetting process of determining if a new association management firm was needed and what company would lead our organization. Intermountain Healthcare | Provo, UT |
2015 Awards
| Benchmarking | Marge Kipe – click here for their video Reading Hospital | Reading, PA |
| Exemplary Leadership | Tony Almeida Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Future Horizon | Timothy Gee Robert Wood Johnson University | New Brunswick NJ |
| Partnership in Leadership | Deedra Hoffart – click here for their video Avista Adventist Hospital | Louisville, CO |
| Spotlight | Michael Atanasio – click here for their video Overlook Medical Center | Springfield, NJ Ami Bhow – click here for their video UCSF Medical Center | San Francisco, CA |
| Lifetime Achievement | Beth Yesford – click here for her video Providence Hospital | Washington, DC |
| Making a Difference | Todd Griffith – click here for his video Alto-Shaam, Inc. | Menomonee Falls, WI |
| Presidential Special Service | David Reeves – He demonstrated excellent leadership on the conference planning team and his initiatives to make new members part of the AHF family, as well as sharing information on the Listserv. Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare | Elmhurst, IL Laura Watson – She served as a mentor to AHF President Lisette Coston, developed a succession planning tool for the national board and worked on the strategic plan Intermountain Healthcare | Provo, UT |
2014 Awards
| Exemplary Leadership | Joyce Hagen-Flint HCA West Florida Division | Largo, FL |
| Future Horizon | Nicholas Mercogliano Robert Wood Johnson University Medical Center | New Brunswick, NJ |
| Partnership in Leadership | Martha Rardin – click here for their video Hendricks Regional Health | Danville, IN Thomas Thaman – click here for their video Eskenazi Health | Indianapolis, IN |
| Spotlight | Crystal McVey – click here for her video Huntsville Hospital | Huntsville, AL Lisa Poggas and Daniel Skay – click here for their video Castle Rock Adventist Hospital | Castle Rock, CO |
| Lifetime Achievement | Patti Oliver – click here for her video UCLA Medical Center | Los Angeles, CA |
| Making a Difference | Dick Hynes – click here for his video Hobart Corporation | Troy, OH |
| Presidential Special Service | Elizabeth Boone – She was a major player in the implementation of the revised Benchmarking EXPRESS™ program throughout the first year Aultman Hospital | Canton, OH Nicole Charbonneau – She very active in keeping the education committee busy throughout the year with establishing new member benefits including the Regional Networking Meetings San Antonio Military Medical Center | San Antonio, TX Beth Yesford – She led a team of leaders to get AHF’s brand in front of the attendees at the ACHE Congress Providence Hospital | Washington, DC |
2013 Awards
| Exemplary Leadership | Eric Eisenberg Swedish Health Services – First Hill | Seattle, WA Betty Perez NYU Langone Medical Center | New York, NY |
| Future Horizon | Aatul Jain Saint Clare’s Health System | Denville, NJ |
| Partnership in Leadership | Operator Julie Jones and Administrators Randy Allen, Kent Hess & Mary Angela Miller – click here for their video Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center | Columbus, OH |
| Spotlight | Dan Henroid – click here for his video University of California – San Francisco Medical Center | San Francisco, CA Angelo Mojica – click here for his video UNC Hospitals | Chapel Hill, NC |
| Lifetime Achievement | Denisa Cate Henry County Medical Center | Paris, TN |
| Making a Difference | Cindy Parker Basic American Foods | Walnut Creek, CA |
| Presidential Special Service | Dexter Hancock – Led team to create the AHF Standards for the Operation of Food and Nutrition Services in Acute Care Hospitals in the United States Retired from DCH Health System and currently consulting | Tuscaloosa, AL Scott Saklad – Helped to spearhead a new member offering, the S.O.Lution Center Computrition, Common CENTS, and DFM – Dietary Food Management | West Hills, CA Andrew Shakman – Helped to spearhead a new member offering, the S.O.Lution Center LeanPath, Inc. | Portland, OR |
2012 Awards
| Exemplary Leadership | Becky Amt Indiana University Health Morgan Hospital | Martinsville, IN |
| Future Horizon | Yusie Kim NYU Langone Medical Center | New York, NY |
| Partnership in Leadership | Operator Jim Behnke and Administrator Jay Dennard – The team converted the facility from contract management and added room service. Gwinnett Medical Center | Lawrenceville, GA |
| Spotlight | Steve Howell – He created a flexible part-time workforce from inexperienced high school students. Lexington Medical Center | West Columbia, SC Tom Thaman – He assisted in the design and implementation of Café Soleil Wishard Health Services | Indianapolis, IN |
| Lifetime Achievement | Laura Watson Utah Valley Regional Medical Center | Provo, UT |
| Making a Difference | Marty Rothschild Aladdin Temp-Rite | Hendersonville, TN |
| Presidential Special Service | Todd Griffith – He was a member of the Alliance Committee who reached out to several associations regarding collaboration with AHF Alto-Shaam, Inc. | Westminster, MD Dan Henroid – He brought forward new ideas for membership structure and worked with Julie Jones on a plan to provide members with updated information on food safety UCSF Medical Center | San Francisco, CA Julie Jones – She represented AHF at an FDA institutional roundtable and worked with Dan Henroid on providing members with information on food safety Wexner Medical Center at Ohio State University | Columbus, OH |
| Publication Award | Jim McGrody – “What We Feed Our Patients” REX Healthcare | Raleigh, NC |
2011 Awards
| Exemplary Leadership | Mimi Wang VA New York Harbor HC System | Brooklyn, NY |
| Future Horizon | Tamara Almquist Geisinger Marworth | Waverly, PA |
| Partnership in Leadership | Operator Angelo Mojica and Administrator Melvin Hurston – The team transitioned two retail venues to self-operation and generated a profit. University of North Carolina Hospitals | Chapel Hill, NC Operator Cyndi Roberts and Administrator Scott Seaborn – The team added room service and raised patient satisfaction scores more than 25 percentile points. Saint Joseph Memorial Hospital | Murphysboro, IL |
| Spotlight | Amy Miller – She focused on healthy food in her facility. Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital & Clinic | Prairie du Sac, WI |
| Lifetime Achievement | Kris Schroeder Swedish Health Services – First Hill | Seattle, WA |
| Making a Difference | Barbara Kane Ecolab, Inc. | Elk Grove Village, IL |
| Presidential Special Service | Marie Nelson – She focused on the operator and business partner relationship. Schwan’s Home Service, Inc. | Marshall, MN |
2010 Awards
| Exemplary Leadership | Mark Eggleston Overlake Hospital Medical Center | Bellevue, WA |
| Future Horizon | Cedric Junearick Hunstville Hospital | Huntsville, AL |
| Partnership in Leadership | Operator Robert Darrah and Administrator Jerry Joyce – The team converted facilities from contract management to self-operated. Legacy Retirement Communities | Lincoln, NE |
| Spotlight | Dan Henroid – He created a convenience retailing business with two concepts. University of California San Francisco Medical Center | San Francisco, CA Khaleed Khan – He assisted in the development of the healthy Trendz café. Alberta Health Services | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Annemarie Price – She assisted in the development of the “Waste Watchers” program. VA Medical Center | Martinsburg, WV |
| Lifetime Achievement | Deanne Carlisle Portland VAMC | Portland, OR Bruce Thomas Geisinger Health System | Danville, PA |
| Making a Difference | Marie Nelson Schwan’s Home Service, Inc. | Marshall, MN |
| Presidential Special Service | Marge Beasley – She worked on the AHF bylaws (Retired) Bloomington Hospital | Bloomington, IN Mary Spicer – She worked on the AHF bylaws Texas Health Resources | Plano, TX Walter Thurnhofer – He worked on the AHF bylaws University of Washington Medical Center | Seattle, WA |
| Publication Award | Tim Bauman – “The Food Service Managers Tune-up Book” Wood County Hospital | Bowling Green, OH |