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Laura Geron is an integral part of quality and reliability at Atlantic Health System. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Loyola University and the Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice, at Seton Hall University. She is an RN and also holds licenses and certifications in Project Management, Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality and Clinical Nurse Leader.  Dr. Geron is a board member of ACHENJ, serving as a co-chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee.

She led the planning of the first Women’s Leadership Event and together with her co- chairs and committee members, elevated the chapter’s responsiveness to DEI, which contributed to the chapter receiving the ACHE Region I DEI Honorable Mention

Kerri has worked at Penn Med Princeton Health for 15 years and has made significant contributions to her organization, including managing large departments and leading significant service line center of excellence projects. Her most significant contribution is her leadership in the design and development of expanding cancer services on campus, which is a top priority of Penn Medicine, Princeton Medical Center.

Kerri is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a dedicated member of the ACHE-NJ Communications Committee. Additionally, she is part of the chapter’s Mentorship Program and recently supervised an MHA intern through the AHA Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. where the internship goals were focused on ACHE core competencies.

Franklin Hickey’s exceptional leadership and operational delivery have resulted in a significant contribution to University Hospital’s performance excellence. Hickey joined UH in 2018 as Administrative Director for Ambulatory Care Services and most recently served as Vice President for Ambulatory Services.

When University Hospital President and CEO Ed Jimenez named Dr. Hickey as his Chief of Staff, he said, "Dr. Hickey's motivating factors as both a nurse and health care leader are having the ability to directly improve the patient experience and clinical outcomes within the health system.” Dr. Hickey recognizes the value and significance of mentoring early careerists and has established an Administrative Fellowship to advance excellence is hospital administration.

Walter Dusseldorp is a mentor, a communicator, an executive coach, and a ACH-NJ Chapter partner in growth and leadership development.  He is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and is on a mission to assist others in achieving this coveted credential. In 2023 he was co-chair of the ACHE-NJ Advancement and Mentorship Committee, and has hosted two ACHE Board of Governors Prep Courses where he shares his vast health administration and leadership experience.
Walter is generous with his time and treasure. He is the founder and CEO of The Dutch Mentor, an executive coaching firm, and still finds time to serve as an active EMT, giving back to his community. He is often first to sign up for chapter fund-raising events.

It is my great honor to nominate the diverse team of change makers that comprise the Population Health Team at Vanguard Health Solutions for the Innovation Award. Vanguard Health Solutions was started in 2020 with a mission to assist high-quality independent primary care in New Jersey thrive in value-based care payment models.

In 2021, VHS launched Vanguard Partner Network, a clinically integrated network offering independent groups a new pathway to transformation from fee-for-service to advanced value-based care models, while empowering primary care to improve results and become more competitive. The expertise and drive of this team is unmatched.  

“As a pharmacist with a passion for comprehensive  
healthcare understanding, I pursued a Master’s in  
healthcare administration to deepen my grasp of the  
broader healthcare landscape. 
My goal is to reshape drug development and market  
access, promoting better patient well-being globally. I  
strongly believe in the power of data, particularly in fields like Precision Medicine, Digital Health, and Healthcare AI, which can greatly enhance patient care. My aim is to use this potential for positive change. My drive lies in harnessing this power for transformative impact.” 

Ciara approaches life with unwavering courage and a fighting spirit that  inspires everyone around her. Literally, her determination shines through  in every step she takes. 
She will be using the scholarship award toward aqua therapy.