2024 AABC Achievement Awards Presented

At the 2024 Birth Institute, we were honored to celebrate a group of dedicated professionals who are advancing the field of birth center care. These individuals were recognized for their outstanding contributions to improving maternal health outcomes and promoting sustainable birth center care.

Jennifer Almanza, DNP, APRN, CNM, received the AABC Media Award for her journal article "The Impact of Culturally-Centered Care on Peripartum Experiences of Autonomy and Respect in Community Birth Centers: A Comparative Study". This important research on culturally centered care in community birth centers revealed critical insights into improving healthcare experiences for BIPOC individuals, demonstrating how midwifery-led care can reduce medical interventions and increase feelings of autonomy and respect among BIPOC clients. Learn more>>

Dele Ogunleye, MD, FACOG, was honored with the AABC Collaborating Physician Award for his extensive support of birth centers across multiple states, serving as a collaborating physician for six birth centers and actively working to develop three more. His advocacy extends beyond clinical work, engaging with policymakers and insurance companies to promote midwifery care. Learn more>>

Megan Warfield-Kimball received the AABC Public Advocate Award for her work with Minnesota's Department of Human Services to reduce barriers for birth centers. Her efforts have been crucial in initiating conversations about Medicaid reimbursement and bringing birth center challenges into policy discussions. Learn more>>

The AABC Professional Award recognized Desiree LeFave CPM, LDM, Rebeckah Orton, BS, RN and Laura Wiegand, MBA for their leadership and and advocacy to advance birth center sustainability. Learn more>>

The AABC Achievement Awards highlight our ongoing commitment to support birth centers, improve maternal healthcare, and address systemic challenges in birth center sustainability.