AHIMA 2009: Busy Day for All
Well, my feet hurt, my brain hurts and I can barely keep my eyes open at this point, but it was all well worth it. My first day at the AHIMA 2009 conference did not disappoint. Busy is an understatement, and I even got a bit of a cardio workout in-with all the walking to and from the various meetings and sessions. This place is huge!
After a brief welcome from AHIMA President Vera Rulon, MS, RHIT, CCS, FAHIMA, and some opening remarks from Grapevine, TX, Mayor William Tate and the Texas HIMA President Carol Smith, MBA, RHIA, attendees were treated to an energetic keynote address from Doug Keeley, CEO and chief storyteller of "The Mark of a Leader."
Keeley shared a number of touching and amazing stories designed to inspire and challenge the membership to "Think Big, Then Do It."
Next the AHIMA Foundation Triumph Awards were presented. These national awards recognize a number of individuals who've made a difference in the HIM profession. We'll bring you full coverage and photos in the coming days, but here's a quick recap of this year's winners:
Distinguished Member Award - Mervat Abdelhak, PhD, RHA, FAHIMA
Champion Award - Mary "Mamel" McCain, MPA, RHIA
Community Outreach Award - PHR Community Education Coordinators
Educator Award - Sue Biederman, MSHP, RHIA
Educator Award - Rachelle S. Stewart, DrPH, RHIA, FAHIMA
E-HIM Award - Marion V. Swaim, RHIA
Legacy Award - April D. Robertson, MPA, RHIA, CHPS, FAHIMA
Mentor Award - Karen Lawler, MPS, RHIA
Mentor Award - Barbara Manor, MA, RHIA
Mentor Award - Dwan Thomas-Flowers, MBA, RHIA, CCS
Pioneer Award - Melissa D. Myrick, MSA, RHIA
Rising Star Award - Megan L. O'Neill, RHIA
As for the rest of my day, it was mainly spent in the exhibit hall while the other ADVANCE staff members attended numerous sessions and press conferences. I've updated our ADVANCE 2009 Industry Buzz news page on just a few of the announcements made today in the exhibit hall, so be sure to check that out.
And now, it's time to get some rest so I can do it all again tomorrow!