The largest healthcare market. Prior to rejoining Novartis in 2021, Reshema spent seven years at Johnson & Johnson, where he held multiple leadership positions, most recently as president of the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Division and president of Janssen Pharmaceuticals Puerto Rico. I also held the post of Reshema began her career at Novartis, where she spent 15 years in roles of increasing responsibility.
2025 Honorary Mentor: Jim Weiss
Jim Weiss, Real Chemistry
Jim Weiss, Chairman and Founder of Real Chemistry, is known for his steadfast alliances and decades-long commitment to advancing women's leadership in health care.
Over the past 24 years, Jim has evolved Real Chemistry into a global medical innovation company that uses AI, real-world analytics and insights, and proprietary technology to help solve the healthcare industry's biggest challenges. . A lifelong advocate of mentorship, Jim promotes opportunities for women at all stages of their careers and actively encourages them to participate in leadership roles at organizations such as HBA. He has been deeply involved with HBA for over 15 years as an advisor and sponsor, and most recently as a member of the Board of Directors.
Jim has been named Agency Entrepreneur of the Year, Top 50 Health Influencer and Innovator of the Year. In addition to his role as an advisor to HBA, he is a board member and contributor to the National Institutes of Health Foundation, Cancer Institute, FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education), and several women-led nonprofit organizations . the American Cancer Society's BrightEdge Philanthropic Impact Fund; Jim also serves on the advisory board of former American Cancer Society CEO Dr. Karen Knudsen.
As lifelong mentors and leaders in education, Jim and his wife, Audra, founded the Weiss Center at Syracuse University's Newhouse School of Public Communication in 2012. The center is focused on providing cutting-edge skills and insights to students who will one day lead the communications industry. Help them stand out in the workplace.
2025 Star: Rebecca Vermeulen
Rebecca Vermeulen, Global Patient Network
Rebecca Vermeulen, Vice President, Global Patient Network, Product Development Medical, Genentech, a Roche Group Company, was honored for her exceptional contributions to HBA and her unwavering commitment to patient advocacy and equity. . The STAR Award recognizes HBA member leaders who have made a significant impact on the growth, standing and performance of HBA's United Force for Change.
Rebecca's strategic leadership was critical during her two terms as Chair of the HBA Global Board of Directors, guiding the organization through the pandemic with resilience, vision, and empathy. Rebecca also helped found the HBA Constellation League and currently serves as co-chair. He has also held leadership positions in the San Francisco and Indiana chapters of the HBA.
