
2023 Annual Luncheon

The 2023 Annual Luncheon held on September 8th at the Marriott Albany was a resounding success, bringing together attendees from healthcare, education, legislative, and workforce development backgrounds.
This was a day of inspiration, networking, and celebration.
Event Summary
Our CEO, Richard Merchant, commenced the event by highlighting the value and importance of our community-driven workforce development efforts, emphasizing AHEC and HWNY’s clear alignment with SUNY’s Four Pillars. The event featured a number of exceptional speakers, including a Keynote Address from SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr., who shared his vision and commitment to advancing healthcare workforce development across NYS, including a new Healthcare Workforce Development Task Force lead by SUNY Vice Chancellor, Valery Grey. Leishia Smallwood, Director of the NYS AHEC System also spoke, delivering an exceptional speech regarding the vital impact of AHEC programming. Ms. Smallwood focused on the importance and value of collaborative partnerships, highlighting the incredible achievements of BQLI-AHEC, NAHEC, and CNYAHEC working together with HWNY. Chancellor King and Ms. Smallwood’s powerful messages left attendees inspired and motivated. The Luncheon provided time and a comfortable environment for initiating meaningful connections and collaborations, allowing attendees the opportunity to network with fellow professionals . The event provided a venue for presenting three individuals with prestigious Annual Scholarship awards.
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Scholarship Awards
The annual competitive scholarships are awarded to students who have completed at least one AHEC program, and who will be entering a medical or health professions program. This years three recipients delivered powerful acceptance speeches that spoke of the value of the AHEC programs, and support of the Boards of Directors.
L.Thomas Wolff, M.D.
Scholarship

Brianna Torres
The Hazel Sanderson, Ed.D., R.N. Health Career Scholarship

Malaika Dewes
Learn more about our scholarships and awardees in the Event Program >
A special Thank You from our team and Boards of Directors to everyone who attended and helped make the day a huge success.
We look forward to seeing you all next year!
A leader in innovative workforce development solutions.
1 Main Street • Canton, NY 13617
Phone: (800) 410-5918 • Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm