Making a Difference Award

Safety Net Health Plan Staff: Making a Difference In the Lives of Plan Members and Their Communities

Each year, ACAP presents its annual Making a Difference Award to an employee at an ACAP-member Safety Net Health Plan who goes far beyond the boundaries of their job description in efforts to improve their community, support underserved populations, and fulfill community needs. Awardees are judged by a committee of human resources directors from ACAP-member health plans on how well they support ACAP’s principles of advocacy for beneficiaries, care, access to quality health care, and a commitment to the public good.

The winners of the Making a Difference Award provide a snapshot of the many ways in which employees of ACAP-member Safety Net Health Plans bolster their communities every day. They take the mission of community service common to all ACAP plans and make them real through ongoing commitment and action.

For more about the award, contact Hannah Lascano.

2024: Tanitra Adekeye, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island

Tanitra’s dedication to Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island and her community has made a lasting impact. Her nomination for the 2024 Making a Difference Award was driven by her tireless efforts in supporting a family facing significant healthcare challenges, overcoming barriers through resource alignment, translation support, and transportation assistance—work that became a documented best practice. 

Since joining as a Clinical Coordinator in 2013, she has advanced to Lead Community Care Coordinator, serving as a liaison for Rhode Island’s Department of Children, Youth, and Families while contributing to various health initiatives. Balancing full-time work, a part-time role in pediatric urgent care, and full-time studies in business administration and healthcare management, Tanitra exemplifies leadership and commitment, earning her this well-deserved recognition. 

2023: Ana Stenersen, CenCal Health

Ana Stenersen, Associate Director of Utilization Management at CenCal Health, embodies the health plan’s mission by improving member health and advancing health equity both inside and outside the clinical setting. Promoting access to pediatric care for disenfranchised youth has defined her career, fueling successful programs for county agencies and CenCal Health since the early 2000s. 

With 25 years in nursing and healthcare administration—21 focused on vulnerable children and youth—she has been instrumental in implementing initiatives that remove healthcare barriers and improve patient outcomes. In January 2023, she was promoted to Associate Director, a testament to her dedication and leadership. She continues to provide exemplary care, advocate for members, and guide professionals in delivering compassionate, high-quality service.

2022: Miriam Roman, Community Health Group

Ms. Miriam Roman, a Certified Master Customer Service Trainer, has been a driving force behind Community Health Group’s commitment to exceptional, culturally sensitive service for over 25 years. She plays a key role in shaping the organization’s authentic service culture, ensuring consistent, high-quality care for Medi-Cal members. 

Specializing in the MAGIC™ (Make a Great Impression on the Customer) mindset, she trains new and existing employees through assessment, skill development, and reinforcement, enhancing staff interactions with members. A certified master trainer since 2011, her unwavering enthusiasm has improved surveys, reviews, and word-of-mouth, all while bringing warmth and positivity to those she encounters. 

2021: Margaret Rivers, Cardinal Innovations Healthcare

Margaret’s devotion to serving others is felt by members, families, and every team member she interacts with. She embodies ACAP principles in all her work. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Margaret led a pilot program to bring cell phones to adult care homes, allowing staff to conduct virtual visits with members while maintaining social distancing. This initiative not only kept members connected but also provided critical insights into their needs for wellness and independent living. 

With a personal history of mental illness, including over three years in an institution, Margaret draws from her experiences to advocate for others. She is “living proof that with hope and the right support, a person with mental illness can lead a full, rewarding life.” 

2020: Ann Oshel, Alliance Health

Ann Oshel oversees Alliance’s Community Health and Well-Being department, managing key initiatives such as System of Care, housing, jail diversion, training, and member engagement. With 30 years in community-based mental health and leadership, Ann has dedicated her career to advocating for vulnerable populations and building successful partnerships to address their needs. 

She has been instrumental in securing safe, affordable housing for individuals with mental illness and homelessness by partnering with the public housing system to prioritize them for permanent housing options. Ann also demonstrated exceptional leadership during Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Florence, coordinating emergency shelter responses and addressing the behavioral health needs of displaced citizens, including creating a child specialist team for outreach in schools and community centers. 

2019: A.J Farria, AmeriHealth Caritas Louisiana

A.J. Farria supervises AmeriHealth Caritas Louisiana’s Community Health Navigation team, facilitating workshops and coordinating care for members facing substance use, mental health issues, and other challenges. Her openness about her own experiences with trauma, mental health, and homelessness helps her build trust with those who may otherwise be hard to reach. 

In addition to her work, Ms. Farria trains case managers in mental health advocacy to reduce stigma and support individuals facing substance use and mental health challenges. Her commitment to advocacy began as a Community Health Worker and certified HIV testing counselor, and she was named the 2004 New Orleans Regional AIDS Volunteer of the Year for her volunteer efforts. 

 

2018: Amy Carrillo, Kern Health Systems 

2017: Brisa Guajardo, Community Health Plan of Washington 

2016: Janette Conway, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island 

2015: Barry Rock, BMC Health Net Plan 

2014: Amy Vance, CareOregon 

2013: Mary Catherine Macik, UPMC for You 

2012: Marcelline Coots, Passport Health Plan  

2011: Bill Sweet, Neighborhood Health Plan