EXCITE Awarded at National Award Program for Outstanding Efforts in Immunizations

The National Adult and Influenza Immunization Summit recently honored individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to improving vaccination rates within their communities. The 2024 Immunization Excellence Awards celebrated achievements in several categories, including overall influenza season activities, the Laura Scott Award, and the “Immunization Neighborhood” Champion Award.

We are thrilled to announce that EXCITE received an honorable mention for the “Immunization Neighborhood” Champion Award at this year’s National  Summit. Nominees were evaluated based on impact, collaboration, originality, overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities. With so many innovative programs nominated, this recognition is a testament to the incredible work of our team. Today, EXCITE coach Ruth Hursman accepted the award on behalf of the entire EXCITE project in Atlanta.

The Summit Awards booklet contains complete descriptions of all the award winners. View the 2024 Awards Lunch and Presentation Booklet.

Congratulations to the EXCITE Team!

Congratulations to the EXCITE program on your dedication to forming partnerships, serving as trusted messengers, and continuously adapting your projects in order to reach your audience with important immunization education. Your efforts in building new health partnerships, creating culturally relevant materials, and earning the trust of your communities have made a nationwide impact in vaccine uptake and acceptance. Susan Farrell of HHS, who presented the award, made remarks of Extension's incredible reach and understanding of their communities.

As of now, EXCITE has reached  20,878,343 people nationwide through 176,390 activities. The teams has facilitated over 10,400 vaccine sites. This year, EXCITE received funding for EFNEP teams to participate in a Bridge Access Awareness project, and we are excited to announce upcoming funded projects that will continue to contribute to the whole health approach by incorporating vaccine education into Extension health programming.

Pictured: Ruth Hursman, EXCITE team member and Extension Foundation employee receiving the Immunization Neighborhood” Champion Award from  Susan Farrell of HHS and Mitch Rothholz, consultant and formerly with American Pharmacists Association before retirement.