April 21, 2026
Ferris State Nursing professors Stephanie Gustman and Becky Johnson-Himes honored by Crain’s Grand Rapids Business for expanding healthcare access
Ferris State University Nursing professors Stephanie Gustman and Becky Johnson-Himes are being honored by Crain’s Grand Rapids Business as Notable Leaders in Health Care for their efforts to bring a free healthcare clinic to residents in need.
Ferris State alumna and Ferris Foundation board member Laurie Placinski also was honored by the publication. She is the vice president of Partnerships for BAMF Health.
Crain’s honored 24 people in West Michigan, selecting people who were nominated and have served in senior leadership roles at their organization. Notable leaders must have been in the profession for a minimum of five years, as well as demonstrate significant impact in their organization and in the community.
“They have provided care for countless West Michigan residents, helped establish and expand health care facilities across the state, and guided thousands of health care professionals in various clinical, therapeutic and medical settings,” the publication wrote in an article published Apr. 20. “The people who make up this year’s slate of Notable Leaders in Health Care represent a broad range of experience, practice and patient care, and exemplify a dedication to serve their communities through various volunteer, civic and mentoring efforts.
Gustman and Johnson-Himes were honored for their work in partnering with Remote Area Medical, providing nearly $250,000 of free medical, dental and vision care to more than 265 patients with help from nearly 440 volunteers.
Organizers are planning on hosting the event at Ferris State again, with plans for a clinic on May 30 and 31, 2026.
Remote Area Medical, a non-profit organization that partners with local volunteers for clinics around the nation, bridges the gap in the American health system by providing free healthcare services to those in need.
Care was available to any adult or child in need without insurance or identification, regardless of residency. Social service resources and even free haircuts were provided.
Gustman has more than 30 years of experience in health care. She has worked for a rural hospital, as a staff nurse, charge nurse, nursing supervisor, and as a clinical manager. She is a professor and Graduate Program coordinator at Ferris State.
Johnson-Himes joined the Ferris State School of Nursing team following an extensive career in public health. In addition, she has experience in nursing administration, obstetrics, and mental health care. She earned the university’s Distinguished Teacher Award in 2024.
Placinski, a 2006 graduate of Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design, leads the expansion and development of BAMF Health’s strategic partnerships nationwide. She launched BAMF’s second clinic in Detroit, managed planning and construction of the Grand Rapids headquarters and created the proprietary BAMF Playbook to standardize care delivery.