The final session of the Bleeding Disorders Conference is always powerful. The community comes together to celebrate those who have made a real difference in the lives of others. This includes the volunteers who go the extra mile, the advocates who work tirelessly for change, the providers who continually strive for excellence, and the researchers, philanthropists, and other leaders who help move our mission forward.
These are the recipients of NBDF’s 2025 Awards of Excellence.
Advocate of the Year
Recognizing voices who ensure the community is heard and supported.
Candi Mitchum
Diagnosed with VWD in her twenties, she has made it her personal mission to ensure that people with VWD don’t suffer without treatment the way she did. She is deeply committed to advocacy with the Bleeding Disorders Association of South Carolina.
Chapter Volunteer of the Year
Honoring volunteers whose commitment strengthens chapters and families.
Antonio Jenkins
Through camp, family days, teen retreats, and other events with Hemophilia of Michigan, he has guided and inspired a generation of kids with bleeding disorders.
Genetic Counselor of the Year
Acknowledging counselors who guide families with care and expertise.
Mary Pat Bland, MS, CGC
A genetic counselor at Oregon Health & Science University, she is a national leader in bleeding disorders counseling, educating peers, co-chairing a key subcommittee, and working toward field-wide guidelines.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Recognizing individuals whose lifelong dedication has shaped our community.
Glenn Pierce, MD, PhD
As a researcher, advocate, survivor, leader, and mentor, he has devoted most of his adult life to advancing the bleeding disorders community, inspiring us all.
Loras Goedken Leadership Award
Celebrating chapter leaders whose vision drives meaningful impact.
Ryan Crowe
He has held several key leadership roles for the Texas Central Bleeding Disorders chapter, including board president. As a member of the Texas Bleeding Disorders Coalition, he has testified at the state capitol and provided crucial testimony for legislation eliminating copay accumulator adjuster programs.
Lived Experience Expert of the Year
Honoring individuals who turn personal experience into progress for all.
Ray Stanhope
A longtime leader in the bleeding disorders community, he has used his knowledge and expertise to enhance NBDF’s community-centered research initiatives.
Mary M. Gooley Humanitarians of the Year
Acknowledging champions whose compassion improves lives every day.
Connie Montgomery
A tireless champion for people with bleeding disorders who are too often overlooked, she has led global patient advocacy and healthcare workshops for decades.
Peter Marks
A longstanding ally for the rare disease community, his work with the FDA has overseen major advances in gene therapy and blood donor policy, combining scientific expertise with compassion to improve care and safety.
Nurse of the Year
Recognizing nurses whose care and empathy enhance patient lives.
Joe Stanco, DNP, FNP-BC, CPI
From Northwell Health in New York City, he brings lab expertise, research innovation, and a patient-first approach to bleeding disorders care, improving outcomes and strengthening community trust.
Researcher of the Year
Celebrating researchers whose work brings new treatments and hope.
Len Valentino, MD
A powerhouse in the field for decades, he continues to lend his expertise through NBDF’s Pathways to Cures and the World Federation of Hemophilia USA.
Ryan White Youth Award
Honoring young leaders whose advocacy inspires change.
Waylon Page
An advocate since age seven, he has been deeply involved in fundraising, education, and awareness. Most recently, he played a key role in the enactment of a Connecticut law requiring bleeding-control kits and training in public buildings.
Philanthropist of the Year
Recognizing generosity that advances our mission and community.
Brian Andrew, CFA
A champion of NBDF for nearly 20 years, he has guided strategy, advanced innovation, and secured vital resources and funds. As founding chair of Pathway to Cures, his leadership, and generosity have been indispensable.
Physician of the Year
Acknowledging physicians whose dedication transforms patient care.
Jordan Wright, MD
A dedicated pediatric hematologist from Dayton Children’s Hospital in Ohio, he brings care, education, and commitment to his patients and the bleeding disorders community.
Physical Therapist of the Year
Recognizing therapists who foster strength and independence.
Makenzie Sledd, PT, DPT
From St. Louis Children’s Hospital, she is a collaborator, educator, and patient advocate. Over 17 years of service, she has built deep connections with both the community and her peers.
Social Worker of the Year
Honoring social workers whose support uplifts families and communities.
Marissa Zanno, LSW
At Children’s National Hospital in Washington, DC, she has been a force for positive change—founding a parent support group, expanding access to care for underserved families, leading clothing drives, and spearheading education for school staff.
Ziggy Douglas Innovation in Youth Programming Award
Celebrating chapters that create inspiring opportunities for youth.
Arizona Bleeding Disorders
They have revitalized their youth programming, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to grow, connect, and advocate—helping build the next generation of community leaders.
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