For Immediate Release
April 18, 2013
HIDA Leadership Award Honors John F. Sasen
Alexandria, Va. – The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) announced today the renaming of its Industry Award of Distinction to the John F. Sasen Leadership Award.
The John F. Sasen Leadership Award honors industry icon John F. Sasen, Sr., who passed away in February 2013. The award will recognize exceptional individuals who demonstrate the leadership qualities, commitment, and service that made John an icon in the industry.
"John's tireless leadership and commitment to HIDA and the HIDA Educational Foundation spanned several decades," said HIDA Board Chairman Doug Shaver. "Renaming our most prestigious award in his honor is a fitting recognition of John's contribution to the industry."
"John Sasen brought visonary leadership to HIDA and the industry," said HIDA President and CEO Matthew J. Rowan. "What made him truly remarkable is the investment he made in mentoring hundreds of individuals. We will miss his humor, grace, humility, and friendship."
Sasen served for 20 years as Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Distributor Relations for Becton Dickinson & Company. He was a key executive at PSS World Medical for over 22 years and had just joined McKesson as their Senior Vice President of Marketing.
Elected HIDA Chairman of the Board in 1998, Sasen went on to Chair the HIDA Educational Foundation (HEF) Board of Directors from 1999 to 2008, where he played a key role in defining the strategic vision for HIDA and HEF. He received the HIDA Industry Award of Distinction in 1989. In the 1980's he led the development of HIDA's Accredited in Medical Sales (AMS) program, which trains thousands of sales reps.
The John F. Sasen Award will be presented each year at the Chairman's Dinner at HIDA's Streamlining Healthcare Conference..
About HIDA
The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) is the premier trade association representing medical products distribution. HIDA members primarily serve the nation’s hospital, long term care, and physician/alternate care markets. For more information, visit HIDA.org.