Thought Leader of The Year Nominees

The RBMA Strategic Education Advisory Committee has nominated three speakers whose sessions within the past year, were notably outstanding, showcasing deep industry expertise alongside significant business value and transformative influence. The selection process included a comprehensive assessment based on attendee feedback, the value of materials distributed, the effectiveness of interaction with attendees, and the extent to which their contributions enrich the RBMA's collective knowledge base.

Please review the final three nominees below and cast your vote!

A commanding voice in the radiology business community, Keith Chew doesn’t just present ideas—he challenges conventional thinking and sparks meaningful discussions that drive the industry forward. Whether leading highly rated sessions at SYNC and PaRADigm or engaging in one-on-one conversations, Keith delivers sharp, forward-thinking insights that leave a lasting impact. His expertise is consistently recognized, with his peers repeatedly selecting his sessions for their relevance and transformative value.

Keith’s influence extends beyond the podium. As RBMA’s liaison to RSNA, he curates topics and speakers, ensuring cutting-edge discussions that shape the future of radiology. He will also lead the 2025 PaRADigm Masterclass on AI integration, helping attendees navigate the complexities of AI-driven workflow transformation—from administration and IT to clinical impact and financial ROI.

What sets Keith apart is his strategic mindset and ability to translate big ideas into practical solutions. His leadership isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about driving progress, pushing radiology professionals toward smarter, more strategic decision-making. A true thought leader, Keith continues to elevate RBMA’s knowledge base and inspire the industry to think bigger and bolder.

A leading authority in payor contracting strategy, Ron Howrigon has been instrumental in helping radiology leaders navigate the complexities of managed care negotiations. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of provider-payor dynamics, he has shared his expertise through RBMA’s Payor Contracting Webinar Series and strategic sessions at PaRADigm, equipping members with the knowledge to strengthen their financial position in an evolving healthcare landscape.

What sets Ron apart is his ability to translate complex contract negotiations and reimbursement models into actionable strategies. His sessions go beyond theory, offering real-world insights that empower radiology groups to optimize negotiations, improve financial stability, and confidently manage payor relationships.

With experience on both the payor and provider sides, Ron provides a unique and balanced perspective, shaping how RBMA members approach contracting and financial strategy. His strategic mindset, industry foresight, and commitment to education make him a true thought leader, driving meaningful conversations that elevate RBMA’s collective expertise and prepare members for future challenges.

A respected authority in coding, compliance, and operational strategy, Melody Mulaik has long been a driving force in shaping RBMA’s educational landscape. As an active member of the Strategic Education Advisory Council and Program Education Subcommittee, she ensures that RBMA’s programming remains insightful, relevant, and impactful. Her expertise is consistently sought after, with her sessions at PaRADigm and SYNC serving as must-attend events for industry professionals.

Through RBMA’s Coding Academy, Melody develops advanced programs that equip members with the tools to stay ahead of regulatory changes and industry shifts. Her ability to break down complex topics into practical, actionable strategies has made her a trusted resource nationwide.

Beyond coding, Melody offers forward-thinking insights into physician partnerships, resource optimization, and workflow efficiency. She bridges the gap between big-picture strategy and real-world implementation, helping radiology groups navigate challenges and improve patient care.

Nationally recognized for her ability to anticipate industry trends and drive meaningful discussions, Melody is more than an educator—she is a true thought leader whose contributions elevate RBMA’s collective knowledge base and push the field forward.