“Personally, my resolution is to spend more time outdoors and say yes to more travel!

Professionally, I am focused on  to strengthen VACC’s mission by helping expand access to certification, supporting evidence-based practice, and continuing to listen to and serve our certificants and the patients they impact.”

Wendy Clark, MSN, RN, VA-BC™ – President

“My New Year’s resolution is continue to move forward in my studies and also in my civilian and military careers.”

Eli Babich, DNP, MSN, MBA, RN, CCRN, CMSRN, CRNI, VA-BC™ – Treasurer

“One of my goals is to make a sizable reduction in my UFO (UnFinished Object/Project) list.”

Lillian Harvey Banchik, MD, FACS, FASPEN, CVAAc, DABS, VA-BC™ – Director

“My personal New Year’s resolution for 2026 is to make it to the gym at least three times a week.

Professionally, my New Year’s resolution is to achieve publication with my new research involving skilled nursing facilities.”

Tracey Schartz, M.ED., RRT, VA-BC™ – Director

“Both personally and professionally, my goal is to be present for those who rely on me and support them to be better, whether my family, patients, staff or community.”

Brandi Barden, BSN, RN, VA-BC™ – Director

“Personal: Prioritize my well-being more by setting healthy boundaries, saying ‘no’ when necessary, and making time for activities that recharge me.

Professional: Work on obtaining an additional certification in Nursing Professional Development.”

Samantha Howorka, MSN, RN, CPHON, VA-BC™ – Director

“This New Year, I’m committing to a journey of becoming the strongest, healthiest version of myself—both physically and financially. When we invest in our physical well-being, we tap into a deeper sense of vitality and purpose. And when we cultivate financial wellness, we create the peace of mind that allows us to move through life with confidence. Together, these forms of fitness empower us to show up fully in every aspect of our lives.

Professionally, my dream for the year ahead is to work towards publishing. I have participated in many projects and gained clinical insights that I’m ready to share, not just as contributions to my field, but as reflections of the passion and curiosity that drive the work of vascular access specialists. Though the goal has sometimes felt overwhelming, this year I’m choosing courage over doubt. I’m setting my sights towards publication—and I’m stepping boldly toward it.”

Irita King, MSN, CRNI, VA-BC™ – Director

“Personally: I’m working on staying grounded. More movement, more reflection, and more time spent doing things that recharge me instead of drain me.

Professionally: I’m committed to elevating the role of vascular access in broader clinical conversations. My goal is to bring practical insights from hospital work directly into research, presentations, and board discussions.”

Lorelle Wuerz PhD, MSN, RN, VA-BC™, NEA-BC – Director

“Personally- Keep the kitchen counter cleaned off.  Stuff gets dumped on the counter when people are coming in the backdoor from the garage, and gets out of control.

“My personal and professional New Year’s resolutions are much the same.  This year (and hopefully ever forward) I resolve to give myself the grace to simply “walk away” when the world gets to be too much.  It remains to be seen if that is a coveted cup of coffee, a walk around the block with my dog, or a cheap flight to Rome.”

Grant Holley, PhD – Public Member