WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 22, 2016)—This month, two vibrant state HME associations will transition leadership after their fall conferences.

The Wisconsin Association of Medical Equipment Services (WAMES) announced that longtime executive director Ann Barrett will be retiring after the organization’s annual conference at the end of September in Delevan, Wisconsin.

“We are really going to miss Ann. As her retirement grows nearer, the reality of her leaving is settling in,” said Rick Adamich, current WAMES president. “I’ve always known that Ann did most of the heavy lifting for WAMES, but as president of the organization this past year I have a much greater appreciation for all she has done for WAMES.”

Rose Schafhauser has been chosen by the WAMES board to replace Barrett. Schafhauser, who is also the executive director for MAMES and SWMESA, is a long-time industry leader. Adamich said, “We are extremely excited for Rose to come on board as our new executive director. We feel very fortunate to have found someone of Rose’s caliber to take the reins from Ann. I am very much looking forward to working with Rose. She has a solid understanding of our goals and will bring so much valuable experience to the table.”

Ann Horton, executive director of the Maryland-National Capital Homecare Association (MNCHA), will also be stepping down as of September 26 after seeing them through another successful conference in Baltimore, Maryland. Angelo Terrana has been named the new executive director.  

"Ann Horton has been a staunch advocate for HME issues for many years. When you look up the definition of a state leader, you will find a picture of Ann," said Steve Ackerman, president of Spectrum Home Medical Equipment and MNCHA board member. "She is already missed. We look forward to working with her at the member level as the mission of MNCHA moves forward."

Visit aahomecare.org for more information.