ACHCA - American College of Health Care Administrators

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The American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) chose Barbara Speedling to receive the 2026 Education Award. This award recognizes an individual for the educational program(s), seminar(s), or workshop(s) that, because of their content, innovative approach, or other special components, have made an outstanding contribution to education in post-acute and aging services.

History

In 1962, a group of farsighted professionals in the field of gerontology saw the need to prepare for the rapid growth of this profession, which has a recorded history of more than three thousand years of effort to extend the length and to enhance the quality of life in later years. So, the American College of Nursing Home Administrators was founded and later known as the American College of Health Care Administrators.

Advancement to Fellow

Administrators complete coursework to achieve fellowship (FACHCA) status. Members may apply and be recognized for their distinguished contributions to the field of long-term care administration. The nationally recognized Fellow distinction indicates your professional achievement and continuous adherence to the ethical and professional standards of ACHCA. 

For more than 40 years, Barbara has shared insights on quality of life and quality care with professional caregivers nationwide. No matter the state of the industry, she has remained constant in her focus on the individual and how the world appears through the lens of their circumstance. With no other objective than to inspire a fresh perspective on care, she continues to challenge her audiences to think differently. 

On April 22, 2026, Barbara received her award at the College’s annual convention in Orlando, Florida.  Master of Ceremonies, Blair Quasnitschka, FACHCA, introduced Barbara:

“Barbara is being recognized for her extraordinary impact as an educator dedicated to improving the quality of life for residence in post-acute and long-term care for more than three decades. She has educated healthcare leaders nationwide through insightful engaging programs the challenge how we think about person centered care, her work, blends, depth, experience and humor empowering professionals to better serve their residence while shaping more compassionate organizations Barbara exemplifies excellence in education leadership across our field.”