WATERLOO, Iowa— VGM has announced nominations are officially open for the 2026 HME (Home Medical Equipment) Woman of the Year Award now through Friday, April 17. The award presentation will take place during VGM’s Heartland Conference, June 8–10, 2026, in Waterloo, Iowa. Nominations can be submitted at vgm.com/womanoftheyear.
Now in its 10th year, the HME Woman of the Year Award recognizes leaders in the HME industry who have made significant and lasting contributions to their business and the industry itself. Eligible nominees represent a wide range of roles, including providers, manufacturers, association leaders, clinicians, consultants and advocates in HME, complex rehab technology (CRT), respiratory care, women’s health and related segments.
“The HME Woman of the Year Award honors the leaders who push this industry forward through compassion, innovation and service,” said Jeremy Stolz, CEO of VGM Group, Inc. “Heartland is the perfect stage to recognize their achievements. We look forward to celebrating the incredible women whose work strengthens providers, empowers patients and shapes the future of HME.”
Past HME Woman of the Year Award recipients include:
- 2025: Robin Menchen, Rotech Healthcare
- 2023: Dana McLaughlin, Medical Service Company
- 2022: Sherry Krug, Binson’s Medical Equipment & Supplies
- 2021: Katie Stevens, Reliable Medical Supply
- 2020: Patty Mastandrea, MedCare Equipment Co.
- 2019: Wendy Russalesi, AdaptHealth
- 2018: Georgie Blackburn, Blackburn’s
- 2017: Barbara Smith, Healthline Medical Equipment
- 2016: Dr. Kirsten Davin, Precision Seating Solutions
To submit a nomination and learn more about the award, visit vgm.com/womanoftheyear/.