The Strength of Many

We have often heard the quote, "if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together," which epitomizes the healthcare supply chain industry of yesterday, today and tomorrow. The lessons built upon over the history of healthcare supply chain reflect on the evolution of transformation that emphasizes the alignment of supply chain processes with clinical needs and patient care practice.

This spans pandemics and epidemics; diagnostic testing and wearables; information technology and AI with all its potential; consolidation of contracting, ordering and transportation; centralized/consolidated service centers to value-added processes and programs, anchored by graduate-level programs, professional development, and media communications spread from mail to email, analog to digital (e.g., smart phone, etc.), wired to wireless; supply disruptions, recalls and breaches; data lakes, data warehouses and business analytics; and sustainability and resilience stewardship.

The growing collection of Bellwether League Foundation honorees make up the nucleus that has driven and continues to fuel a healthcare supply chain industry revolution. Look no farther for inspiration to enhance the essential leadership skills to succeed than learning about the backgrounds and stories of the growing collection of honorees across the three award categories: Future Famers, Ammer Honorees and Bellwether Hall of Famers. I encourage you to align your career phase or current challenge with one or more of the insightful, innovative leaders and lean in on their courage and authentic leadership; reach out for a mentor, thought partner or cheerleader to bring focus to your real-world journey.

Bellwether League Foundation (BLF) has used this strategy since its inception in 2007. We will forever be grateful for and recognize the healthcare supply chain leaders who have given countless hours to the BLF in planning strategies, leading committees, contributing to articles, webinars and podcasts, collaborating with universities and paving the way to partnerships. Through this work BLF has broadened its reach across the industry through Collegiate Capstone projects and scholarships on one end to a Pioneer recognition program to begin in 2025.

On behalf of Bellwether League Foundation, I express gratitude to our sustaining, event and new sponsors for their generous donations and philanthropy. Their support requires more than just a simple "thank you." It is an opportunity to acknowledge their impact on our shared mission. Come count yourself as "one of many" as we continue to strengthen the legacy of the Healthcare Supply Chain Leadership Hall of Fame together.

Barbara Strain, MA, CVAHP

Bellwether Class of 2021

Healthcare Supply Chain Leadership Hall of Fame

Chairman, Board of Directors, Bellwether League Foundation