ConnAPA’s 2026 Annual Meeting was more than an opportunity to conduct the Academy’s annual business. It was an evening to celebrate the people whose initiative, service, and leadership continue to move the organization—and the physician associate profession—forward.
The gathering marked the conclusion of Sheyla Marranca, DMSc, PA-C’s term as president. Reflecting on the members and volunteers who shared in the year’s progress, she said, “It has truly been a privilege to work alongside such a passionate and driven group of individuals, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.”
That progress included several meaningful advocacy victories. Over the past year, ConnAPA helped advance legislation allowing PAs to complete Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment forms, secured a $30,000 state budget allocation to support PA students affected by the federal loan cap, and expanded statutory recognition of PAs as psychiatric care providers for incarcerated patients.
While these accomplishments offered much to celebrate, some of the evening’s most memorable moments came as ConnAPA honored the members and partners whose work often takes place behind the scenes.
“Volunteer leadership requires sacrifice, and this Board continually stepped forward with professionalism, collaboration, and a shared vision for ConnAPA’s future,” Sheyla said.
That spirit of service was reflected in the presentation of ConnAPA’s 2026 awards.
Deanna Sgambato received the Initiative Award in recognition of her drive, engagement, and willingness to take action. An active member of the Board and a leader on the Student Engagement Committee, Deanna has also stepped forward to champion important initiatives within ConnAPA’s Strategic Plan.
The Service Award was presented to Dennis Brown, whose dependability and generosity have made him an invaluable presence within the organization. Known for being among the first to arrive and always ready to lend a hand, Dennis exemplifies the spirit of service on which ConnAPA depends.
Alec Williams received the Leadership Award for bringing fresh ideas and renewed energy to the Student Engagement Committee. His encouragement of student participation and support for the ideas of future PAs have strengthened both the committee and ConnAPA’s connection with the next generation of professionals.
This year, two members received the President’s Award. Shilpa Mistry and Ana Eliza Souza Cunha were recognized for their vision, teamwork, and exceptional leadership of the Conference and Education Committee. Together, they successfully guided the Charter Oak Conference through a transition to a new venue and delivered the most successful conference in ConnAPA’s history. Their months of careful planning created an engaging experience for attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and sponsors while setting a new standard for future conferences.
The evening also included recognition of ConnAPA’s PA of the Year, Sandy Narciso-Owen.
Certificates of Appreciation highlighted two important partnerships. Van Wie Associates was honored for its longstanding commercial support of ConnAPA. Since 2014, the team has helped cultivate relationships with exhibitors and sponsors that are vital to the success of ConnAPA and the Charter Oak Conference.
Governor Ned Lamont was also recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for supporting Connecticut PAs and signing legislation that has strengthened the profession, expanded the role of PAs, and improved patients’ access to high-quality care.
The celebration extended to the many volunteers and professional partners who contribute to ConnAPA throughout the year. Sheyla thanked the Board of Directors, committee leaders, past presidents, Executive Director Kirsten Longley and the S&S Management Services team, ConnAPA’s legislative advocates at Smith, Lutz, Rome & Kowalski, and Van Wie Associates.
Special appreciation was also extended to departing board members Cayla Daniele and Victoria Ho. Cayla concluded eight years of Board service, during which her leadership made a lasting contribution to the Academy. Victoria completed her term after leading ConnAPA’s first Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee and contributing her time and perspective to several other committees.
The evening concluded with a meaningful passing of the gavel. After thanking members for their trust and support, Sheyla formally transitioned into her new role as Immediate Past President and welcomed Nicholas Patino as ConnAPA’s new president.
In introducing Nick, Sheyla praised his consistency, thoughtful leadership, and longstanding dedication to ConnAPA. She expressed confidence that he will build upon the organization’s momentum and lead with integrity, vision, and purpose.
With the gavel passed and a new leadership year underway, the Annual Meeting captured what makes ConnAPA strong: members who step forward, partners who believe in its mission, and leaders committed to serving both the profession and the patients who depend on it. It was an evening of well-earned recognition—and an inspiring beginning to ConnAPA’s next chapter.