Boulder's own Melissa Bonomo has been recognized with the prestigious 2025 National Immunization Champion Award, as announced by the Immunization Branch at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. A pharmacy manager at Albertsons, Bonomo stands out for her dedicated efforts to boost vaccination rates within the community, having overseen the administration of over 10,000 vaccines last year alone.
In leading her pharmacy to top a district of more than 30 locations in flu vaccine administration, Bonomo's outlet gave more than 5,000 flu shots during the 2024-2025 season. While managing these high volumes, she dedicated significant effort to training 10 pharmacy technicians, each in injections, enabling them to become immunization certified, and expanding the pharmacy's capability to offer vaccinations.
The scope of Bonomo's work, however, extends far beyond the confines of her pharmacy. She has been instrumental in orchestrating 15 off-site vaccine clinics in three months, targeting high-need areas around Boulder. Contributing a personal touch, Bonomo didn't hesitate to volunteer during her weekend to run a vaccine clinic at a local homeless shelter, ensuring access to immunizations for those most at risk.
According to Heather Roth, Immunization Branch Chief at CDPHE, "Melissa’s unwavering commitment to increasing vaccine access and education in her community is truly inspiring," as per CDPHE. Roth highlighted Bonomo's innovative methods, like weekend clinics for underserved populations, and her commitment to staff training as factors influencing public health in a "significant" way. These comments underline the comprehensive nature of Bonomo's approach to public health, including her offering specialized travel health consultations and yellow-fever vaccinations.
Though Bonomo's achievements shine, other notable health professionals in Colorado were also commended for their work in immunization. Among these are Beth Musolf Reilly's achievement of a 100% student immunization compliance rate in Eagle County's early childhood program, and Garrett Johnson, who kept vaccinations rolling even with the year-long closure of the Blue Mesa Bridge. Furthermore, Suegie Park's off-site vaccine clinics and focus groups with diverse immigrant communities notably provided free vaccinations to an estimated 3,500 people. Rosa Parga’s efforts, resulting in a 10% increase in on-time immunizations at Denver Health Eastside Pediatric Clinic, were recognized thanks to her direct phone outreach to patients overdue for their vaccines.
