Carolyn Rich Founder’s Award
The AAMAS “Carolyn Rich Founder’s Award” is a highly prestigious award intended to recognize an individual who has made major contributions to the American Association of Medical Audit Specialists. The recipient is a person whose unique, diverse and distinctive contributions to AAMAS will enrich members in years to come.
The award is presented annually to an individual who has the foresight to recognize the needs of medical auditors and helps to further the growth of the Organization to meet those needs. The individual must be a person who:
- Promotes AAMAS' vision, mission and ethics statements.
- Promotes AAMAS by educating and encouraging new members.
- Continuously upholds the professional standards of conduct.
- Exhibits leadership skills including originality and imagination, in project identification, development and consensus building.
- Promotes vision for future growth of the Organization.
- Continues to serve as a role model.
- Possesses skills to promote new ideas and theories.
- Demonstrates pride and responsibility in all aspects of AAMAS.
The Founders Award Committee presents three candidates to the Board of Directors who then vote for the candidate of their choice. The AAMAS President presents the award at the AAMAS Spring Conference.
From left, Barbara Thompson, RN, CMAS, winner of the award in 2007; Mary Jane LaBelle, RN, BA, CMAS, 2008 winner of the award; Ruth Gahan, RN, BSN, CMAS, AAMAS President
On April 24, 2008, in Anaheim, CA, during its 14th annual conference, AAMAS presented the award to Mary Jane LaBelle, RN, BA, CMAS, of DataMetrix in Oregon. Ms. LaBelle served on the Steering Committee and was the first President, serving from 1996 to 1998, and again from 2000 to 2002. Under her leadership, she has provided a steady hand in the growth of AAMAS, has worked tirelessly promoting the Association and the CMAS exam, and been a source of support and a sounding board for each President who has succeeded her. Mary Jane LaBelle continues to be a strong supporter of the organization, and we are pleased to present this award to her.
