During the 2026 National Scleroderma Conference in Baltimore, the National Scleroderma Foundation proudly recognized the extraordinary volunteers, advocates, healthcare professionals, philanthropists, and community leaders whose dedication continues to move our mission forward. Their passion, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting impact on the lives of people affected by scleroderma. Congratulations to our 2026 award recipients!
Support Group Volunteer of the Year
Angie Starmer
Angie Starmer was recognized for the incredible impact she has made as facilitator of the Central Florida Support Group. Drawing on her background in mental health and vocational rehabilitation, she has created a welcoming, compassionate space where individuals feel supported, encouraged, and connected.
Outstanding Patient Support Award
Ed Lippincott & Dori-Ann Delatizky
Ed Lippincott and Dori-Ann Delatizky were honored for their leadership of the Caregivers Support Group. Together, they have built a supportive community where caregivers can connect, share experiences, and find encouragement, helping countless families feel less alone in their journey.
Outstanding Education Program Award
Mid-Atlantic Chapter
The Mid-Atlantic Chapter received this award for delivering exceptional educational programming throughout the year. Their commitment to providing expert-led education and meaningful opportunities for connection, including a highly successful Johns Hopkins education event, continues to strengthen the scleroderma community.
Chapter Volunteer of the Year
Lourdes Perez
Lourdes Perez was recognized for her outstanding leadership in expanding the Foundation’s presence throughout Puerto Rico. From strengthening relationships within the medical community to helping launch the first satellite Stepping Out to Cure Scleroderma Walk in Old San Juan, her passion has created lasting impact.
Chapter of the Year
New England Chapter
The New England Chapter was also named 2026 Chapter of the Year in recognition of its excellence in support, education, fundraising, and volunteer leadership. Their commitment to serving the community continues to set the standard for chapters nationwide.
Outstanding Chapter Awareness Award
New England Chapter
The New England Chapter earned this recognition for its innovative awareness initiatives throughout Scleroderma Awareness Month. Through landmark light-ups, community events, proclamations, and inclusive outreach efforts, the chapter has significantly expanded awareness across the region.
Advocate of the Year
Desiree James
Desiree James, a leader in the Florida & Puerto Rico Chapter, was honored for her unwavering advocacy and leadership. Through awareness campaigns, legislative advocacy, and community education, she has elevated the voices of people living with scleroderma and inspired others to become advocates.
National Volunteer of the Year
Camille Novachek
Camille Novachek received the Foundation’s highest volunteer honor for her extraordinary service at both the local and national levels. Whether supporting patients, serving on national committees, or advocating for federal initiatives, her dedication has strengthened the Foundation’s mission across the country.
Jacob Davila Memorial Leadership Award
Jo Mervos
Jo Mervos was recognized for embodying the spirit of servant leadership. Her compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to supporting others have helped build stronger connections and lasting hope throughout the scleroderma community.
Individual Fundraiser of the Year
Kimi Kondo & Carol Avery
Kimi Kondo and Carol Avery were honored for raising more than $40,000 through the Rocky Mountain Chapter’s fundraising events. Their dedication extends well beyond fundraising, as both continue to inspire and support others through their leadership and involvement within the scleroderma community.
Philanthropist of the Year
Bob Nickerson
Bob Nickerson received this award in recognition of his transformational $5 million commitment to the National Scleroderma Foundation. His generosity established the Indu Sapra, MD Memorial Research Grant, creating a lasting legacy that will advance scleroderma research for years to come.
Messenger of Hope Award
Evamarie Cole
Evamarie Cole was recognized for the hope, encouragement, and leadership she brings to the scleroderma community every day. Evamarie is a leader of the Tri-State Chapter and the national scleroderma community. Through her advocacy, volunteer leadership, and commitment to uplifting others, she continues to inspire patients and families across the country.
Doctor of the Year
Dr. Grissel Ríos
Dr. Grissel Ríos was honored for her exceptional commitment to caring for people living with scleroderma in Puerto Rico. Her dedication to patient education, community outreach, and partnership with the Foundation has strengthened care and expanded access to resources for countless individuals.
Distinguished Service Award
Rhonda Costa
Rhonda Costa, chapter chair of the Heartland Chapter, received the Distinguished Service Award in recognition of more than 18 years of extraordinary volunteer leadership. Her tireless dedication to supporting patients, volunteers, fundraising events, and national initiatives has left an immeasurable impact on the Foundation and the community it serves.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Mariann Boyanowski
The Foundation’s highest honor was presented to Mariann Boyanowski for more than two decades of remarkable service. From co-founding the Ohio Regional Chapter to raising nearly $400,000 for patient support and research, Mariann’s legacy of leadership, advocacy, and compassion continues to inspire future generations.
