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De De Gardner Named 2026 Distinguished CHEST Educator

In a notable achievement for the realm of respiratory education, De De Gardner, DrPH, RRT, FAARC, FCCP, the Chief Research and Programs Officer at the Allergy & Asthma Network, has been recognized as a 2026 Distinguished CHEST Educator by the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST). This prestigious award is conferred upon those faculty members who excel in educational impact, marking Gardner among the elite 3% of CHEST faculty globally.

Gardner's achievements will be spotlighted during the CHEST 2026 conference, scheduled from October 18 to 21 at the Phoenix Convention Center in Arizona. Gardner is set to present on a critical topic: inhaler education. This session aims to empower patients with the knowledge necessary for effective inhaler use, adapting to device transitions—one of the pressing issues in respiratory care today.

"This recognition reflects not only my commitment but the comprehensive expertise that the Allergy & Asthma Network brings to the table in enhancing patient and clinician education," Gardner emphasized. "Understanding the intersection between scientific research and practical application is crucial for effective disease management."

In addition to her presentation, the Allergy & Asthma Network will maintain a presence at Booth 160 during the conference. Here, healthcare professionals and patients alike can access educational resources designed to support respiratory health management. As stated by Lynda Mitchell, CEO of the Allergy & Asthma Network, Gardner's contributions are pivotal in bridging gaps between the complexity of respiratory care science and the everyday experiences faced by patients.

During her session, titled "Video Case-Based Inhaler Vignettes and Hands-On Inhaler Use Potential Inhaler Switch," Gardner will collaborate with a diverse team of respiratory care professionals. Through this session, attendees will learn not only about correct inhaler usage but also the necessary adjustments when there are changes to inhaler devices, addressing the real-life challenges that patients encounter at home.

"It's imperative that inhaler education is rooted in patient experience, especially during transitions between devices," Gardner articulated, further stressing her commitment to ensuring that patients feel supported and confident in managing their conditions.

Drawing from a wealth of experience as a respiratory therapist, educator, and researcher, Gardner aims to fortify respiratory health education for both patients and healthcare providers. Her leadership at the Allergy & Asthma Network is instrumental in aligning patient needs with research and educational initiatives tailored to enhance understanding and management of respiratory conditions.

At Booth 160, conference participants will have the chance to engage with representatives from the Allergy & Asthma Network and discover new educational tools, including the 2026 Respiratory Treatment Poster. There will also be opportunities to learn about ongoing programs in patient education, advocacy efforts, and cutting-edge research initiatives.

The CHEST 2026 conference serves as a confluence for professionals specializing in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine, offering a platform for research presentations, clinical education, and interactive learning. Premeeting courses will kick off on October 17, allowing participants to dive deep into various specialized topics prior to the main event.

With a keen focus on inhaler education, device transitions, and the overarching needs of patients, the Allergy & Asthma Network is poised to contribute significantly to the discourse at CHEST 2026. Practitioners interested in arranging interviews regarding these critical topics can reach out to Jennifer Wilson for further details.

About the Allergy & Asthma Network

Founded in 1985, the Allergy & Asthma Network stands as the preeminent nonprofit organization dedicated to education, advocacy, and research for individuals combating asthma, allergies, and related conditions. With a mission to foster patient-centered research and improve healthcare access and treatment outcomes, the organization is committed to making complex medical information comprehensible. By promoting evidence-based care and collaborative efforts among patients, healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers, the Allergy & Asthma Network plays a vital role in elevating the quality of life for those it serves.

For more information, visit AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.