Page 34 - SCDAA Convention 2022
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2022 AWARD WINNERS
2022 Champion Award
Annie J. Ross-Womack
Annie J. Ross-Womack is the executive director for SCDAA /Ohio Sickle Cell and Health Association, Inc.,
a nonprofit that has provided education, advocacy and support to individuals and families affected by
sickle cell disease for over 60 years. She advocates for families, neighborhoods, small businesses and
civil rights while serving the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Leadership Council, Columbus
NAACP Executive Committee, Near East Area Commission and other community-driven initiatives.
2022 Community Health Worker Award
Shanti’ Johnson-Harris
Shanti’ Johnson-Harris is a community health worker with Cayenne Wellness Center in California. She
is a strong community and social services professional, and has a Bachelor of Arts focused on social
work from California State University, Fresno. Shanti’ has always had a passion for helping others and
solving societal issues. She is experienced in social work, case management, child advocacy, Indian
Child Welfare Act (ICWA), negotiation and serving the judge on behalf of Fresno County foster youth. Shanti’ is a carrier of
sickle cell trait and lost a good friend to sickle cell disease in 2010.
2022 Lifetime Achievement Awards
Charles Whitten, M.D., (posthumous): Dr. Wanda Whitten-Shurney accepting
Kwaku Ohene-Frempong, M.D., (posthumous): Janet Ohene-Frempong accepting
Dr. Charles F. Whitten was a physician, medical pioneer and the founder and president emeritus of
SCDAA. He also founded the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America of Michigan (SCDAAMI) in
Detroit and served as its president until his death in 2008. His dedication and commitment to SCDAA
and to those with sickle cell disease are immeasurable.
Dr. Kwaku Ohene-Frempong passed away in May 2022. He was a true leader in the sickle
cell community and dedicated his life and career to working with SCD. In the United States and
internationally, Dr. Kwaku Ohene-Frempong was a leading pediatric sickle cell physician and a
fierce advocate. His work changed the world for many in our community.
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