Congratulations to the 2024 National Awards Recipients

The Dianne Polseno Lifetime Achievement Award honors the memory of Dianne Polseno, an industry leader who left behind a legacy of integrity, professionalism, leadership, volunteer service, massage research and an unquestionable commitment to the advancement of the massage education profession.

Tammy Roecker, President of the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness, had made exceptional contributions to massage therapy education over the course of her career. With over 32 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) and Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (BCTMB), Tammy has shown unparalleled professionalism, integrity, and leadership. Her extensive credentials, including the Certified Massage and Bodywork Educator (CMBE) designation and being named the AFMTE's 2019 Continuing Education Provider-Educator of the Year, reflect her commitment to advancing the field.

Through her innovative work, especially the establishment of the Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness, Tammy has been instrumental in integrating massage therapy into the medical healthcare community. Additionally, her efforts as the founder and president of the Early Bonding Foundation have made a lasting impact on community health.

The Distinguished Service Award is given annually to honor someone who has contributed to the massage therapy profession in an outstanding manner and to acknowledge diligent volunteerism done in an altruistic manner. 

Christine Bailor-Goodlander is a compassionate and visionary leader in the massage therapy community. With over two decades as a licensed massage therapist and a career as a registered nurse since 1985, she has dedicated her life to healing and empowering others. Christine runs a thriving wellness center that serves as a sanctuary for holistic health, where she specializes in managing complex health conditions, rehabilitation, and oncology massage therapy. Christine has her Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, along with specialized training in sports and oncology massage, and serves as an end-of-life doula.

Christine has volunteered in various roles with her New York Chapter and served for many years on the AMTA National Board of Directors, currently as the Immediate-Past President.

The President’s Award honors someone who has contributed to the massage therapy profession in an outstanding and altruistic manner, and is selected by AMTA’s National President. 

Nancy Dail is a trailblazer in the massage therapy profession, founding and directing the Downeast School of Massage since 1981. Her leadership extends beyond the school, having served on the AMTA National Board of Directors and various committees, including Charter President of the Maine Chapter.

Celebrating her 50th anniversary as an AMTA member, Nancy is internationally recognized for her teaching and engaging workshops, particularly her innovative Dimensional Massage Therapy course. Her visionary approach and dedication have inspired countless practitioners, leaving a lasting impact on the profession.

The Becky Schwoebel Making a Difference Award is an honor bestowed on a long-term volunteer who has helped bring positive change and innovation to the massage therapy profession. This award recognizes Becky Schwoebel, a volunteer and valued friend to AMTA who left behind a legacy of integrity, professionalism, leadership, and volunteerism.

For over two decades, Michaele has run a successful massage therapy practice in Rhode Island, drawing on her background as a certified nursing assistant, chiropractic assistant, and licensed physical therapist assistant. Her service to the Rhode Island Chapter, including her role as Chapter President, has earned her the Rhode Island Chapter Meritorious Award and AMTA's National Humanitarian Award. Michaele's enthusiasm also led her to join the AMTA National Board of Directors, where she served as National President, playing a key role in guiding the association in a post-pandemic environment. As a mentor, she shares her knowledge with students through a local college internship program, embodying the true spirit of volunteerism.

The National Meritorious Award is given for diligent volunteerism done in an altruistic manner.

Ann Blair Kennedy, LMT, BCTMB, DrPH, is a passionate and dedicated advocate for the massage therapy profession. As an Associate Professor and leader in patient engagement and integrative health initiatives, Dr. Kennedy has made significant contributions to advancing the integration of massage therapy in healthcare settings.

Through her involvement with AMTA and the Massage Therapy Foundation, Dr. Kennedy has championed research, education, and professional development efforts that have enhanced the profession. She has an unwavering commitment to service, mentorship, and community engagement, which can be seen through her volunteer projects and initiatives focused on promoting health equity.

The Others First Award honors an AMTA member whose volunteer work, primarily massage, is done in the larger or extended community.

Michelle is a dedicated and compassionate volunteer who has made significant contributions to AMTA and her local community. As a licensed massage therapist, Michelle specializes in chronic pain management and primarily works with veterans. In 2022, she started volunteering with the Indiana Chapter, quickly rising to become the Chair of the Government Relations team the following year. Alongside her professional work, Michelle has a long history of volunteer service, including her participation with the Veterans Administration's Care in the Community program, which connects veterans with health services in their communities.

The New Volunteer of the Year Award is given to honor and recognize emerging volunteers in AMTA.

Carolyn is an exceptional volunteer who has quickly made a significant impact on the Texas Chapter. She has embraced various leadership roles, including Delegate, Secretary, School Liaison, and Region Coordinator, while also playing a key role in establishing a new regional group. With her positive "can-do" attitude and ability to motivate and inspire others, Carolyn has become a valued asset to her chapter. As a licensed massage therapy instructor, Carolyn brings a genuine understanding of the profession and a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of massage therapists.

The Government Relations and Legislative Advocate award honors an AMTA Member who has achieved exceptional accomplishments at the chapter and/or national level in government relations and legislative activities.

Rosalie "Ro" Dunn has been an engaged and devoted volunteer with the Connecticut Chapter for over 35 years. In recent years, Ro took on the new role of representing the massage therapy profession on the state's Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Council. In this position, she has enthusiastically learned about the council's work, built connections with members from various agencies, and advocated for the interests of massage therapists. Through her groundbreaking work, she has created a model that other states could follow to ensure the massage therapy profession has a voice in legislative and regulatory decisions.