The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) has recognized two Cognizant associates for their outstanding contributions to the healthcare field.

Karen Callahan, Senior Director, Center of Excellence, Healthcare Product Consulting, was named an HBA Rising Star. HBA Rising Stars represent professionals in various career stages and disciplines of the healthcare industry who have demonstrated attention to furthering their careers. A 26-year veteran in the healthcare field, Karen was nominated for her leadership both inside and outside of Cognizant. Karen is an active mentor, both formally and informally. She has helped other women within the organization rise through the ranks and found roles they are passionate about. She is also deeply involved in her community, volunteering her time with several organizations, including the Girl Scouts of America, the National Charity League and Furnishing Dignity.

“Karen consistently leads by example and regularly offers to take the lead on new and innovative ideas for the organization,” said John Wilson, SVP, Healthcare Product Consulting, and Cognizant.

“I am both humbled and honored to have been selected as an HBA Rising Star,” said Callahan. “I am looking forward to increasing my participation in our Cognizant Women Empowered program, as well as the HBA. Through both programs, I’ll be able to take full advantage networking opportunities that will enable me to continue to identify and develop next-level talent within Cognizant.”

Gayle Flynn, Engagement Delivery Partner, Life Sciences, was named as an HBA Luminary. HBA Luminaries serve as a role model within their company and actively mentor and sponsor others. Gayle is a sought-after industry speaker and has presented at the Society of Clinical Data Management and Society of Clinical Research Associates Annual Meeting. A leader for Cognizant’s Women Empowered program, Gayle influences change by encouraging other women to take risks and be themselves. Gayle is also a volunteer lead for Cognizant Outreach and has organized more than 12 different events in each of the past five years.

“Gayle is an exceptionally positive leader,” said Kumar Ramakrishnan, Engagement Delivery Partner, Cognizant. “She is a mother of four and grandmother of four, and she happily shares how she has successfully tackled work-life balance issues.”

“I am greatly honored to receive this award,” said Flynn. “I will continue to support diversity and inclusion, along with humanitarian initiatives, and I’ll model those behaviors so that others feel confident in bringing their authentic selves to the workplace. To me, this truly reflects the optimal way to focus energy on finding the best solutions for the world’s most pressing healthcare problems.”

See the full list of HBA Rising Stars here and the full list of HBA Luminaries here.