Congratulations to two South Dakota immunizations champions for earning National Immunization Recognition Awards. Andrea Polkinghorn and Allie Alvine received awards during the National Conference for Immunization Coalitions and Partners (NCICP) Award Ceremony recently in Philadelphia. The awards are given to those who have worked to maximize immunization rates in their community.
Andrea Polkinghorn, president of Immunize South Dakota’s Board of Directors and lead immunization strategist for Sanford Health, was awarded the Immunization Leadership Award for her strategic vision and dedication to advancing immunization initiatives in South Dakota. Andrea has consistently exceeded these expectations, serving as a spokesperson, trainer, mentor, and educator for immunizations. This award gifted for those who demonstrate exceptional dedication to promoting and furthering immunization efforts.
“I’m deeply honored by the NCICP award nomination. To have both myself and Allie recognized is incredibly rewarding,” Andrea stated when asked to share her reaction to the award. “I’m incredibly proud to witness the impact of our collective efforts to increase vaccine confidence and immunization rates throughout the state. I’m so thankful that individuals took the time to elevate the work we are doing to protect South Dakotans from vaccine-preventable diseases.”
Allie Alvine, the director of South Dakota Families for Vaccines, received the Excellence in Immunization Advocacy Award for her dedication to advocating for public health rooted in fact-based public policy and promoting immunizations across the lifespan for healthier families and communities. This award celebrates individual that have actively driven policies supporting immunization efforts within their state. This includes legislative updates and trainings.
“I am humbled and grateful to be recognized with this national award for Excellence in Immunization Advocacy. It has been motivating and inspiring to work with and learn from so many partners in South Dakota and across the country in our shared goal of keeping our communities safe from vaccine-preventable diseases. I’m proud that our team is making a difference in South Dakota,” Allie shared in response to her recognition.
Dani Gullickson, Immunize South Dakota’s executive director, expressed excitement about the award recognition. “I’m so incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with and learn from these remarkable women. And how exciting to have two of ISD’s board members receive national recognition! It was a privilege to celebrate alongside them in Philadelphia, and I’m just so happy to get to work with them and so appreciative of the impact they have in their respective spaces.”
The Great Plains Quality Innovation Network team would like to extend appreciation to both Andrea and Allie for their commitment to fostering healthier and safer communities through their work to promote immunizations and vaccine-preventable illnesses.
Source: Immunize South Dakota, ImmuNEWS publication; April 19, 2024