Across the U.S., State Societies dedicate themselves to supporting both the profession and the respiratory therapist. They help further the AARC mission through the work in their society and their representatives to the AARC House of Delegates. As part of the 2023 AARC Awards Ceremony, we took time to highlight these efforts through special recognitions.
Summit Award
The 2023 Summit Award was presented to South Carolina. The AARC House of Delegates recognizes state societies for their efforts and achievements in promoting the respiratory care profession and its respiratory therapists. Summit award recipients exemplify excellence in education activities; membership, recruiting and retention; legislative activities; promoting public awareness and communication membership; student activities; and leadership and mentoring. Congratulations to South Carolina!
Outstanding Affiliate Contributor Award
The Outstanding Affiliate Contributor Award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions and provided dedicated service to their state society. Thomas Lamphere of Pennsylvania was named Outstanding Affiliate Contributor for 2023.
Tom was selected, from among several excellent candidates, for his 32 years of service to the respiratory care profession and the patients he has served. The Pennsylvania Society for Respiratory Care (PSRC) noted that he has been an inspiration for this profession by serving both the AARC as well as the PSRC by contributing his talents as manager, director for various hospitals and as executive director for the PSRC. Congratulations Tom!
Bill Lamb Award
The Bill Lamb Award is dedicated to the memory of its namesake and recognizes an individual who emulates the heart of volunteerism. Brent Kenny of Missouri received the 2023 Bill Lamb Award.
Brent was selected for his 45 years of service to the respiratory care profession and the patients he has served. The Missouri Society for Respiratory Care (MSRC) noted that he has been a strong advocate for the profession through his work at Mercy Hospital for 34+ years, several respiratory care programs, and at the state and national level. Brent’s volunteerism exudes commitment and compassion. And finally, his effort in helping enhance the quality of life of those suffering from respiratory illness in his community, including his work with the Palliative Care Committee at Mercy Hospital, is vital and greatly appreciated. Congratulations Brent!
Delegate of the Year Award
Annually, the House of Delegates Speaker recognizes a delegate for their standout service and dedication to the House. For 2023, Wayne Barfield of South Carolina was selected as Delegate of the Year. Wayne has volunteered many personal hours this past year to help state societies with their financial obligations. According to HOD Speaker Julie Jackson, Wayne has worked hard to ask difficult questions of both state affiliates and the AARC and has sought out reasonable solutions to ensure our state affiliates have the resources and tools they need to be successful financially. Congratulations Wayne!
