By Vivian Greenway, PhD, MSA, BSN, RN, PAHM, CCM, FCM
Since 2021, CMSA has provided the designation of Fellow to premier leaders within the organization. If you have ever thought of taking on the task of obtaining one of the highest levels in case management, the Fellow program is the route to pursue. Leaders who hold the FCM come from various disciplines and are great resources within their fields. The designation is awarded to those who have made a significant impact in the field of case management.
In 2025, I became a Fellow. Prior to starting the FCM application process, I researched everything I could to find out not only whether I qualified, but also whether I could commit to applying and to presenting an application worthy of review and that would allow me to be accepted into the program. I researched the criteria to ensure I met the requirements for this prestigious designation. I watched a plethora of videos on the process, read articles, and talked to current Fellows. It took me a while to decide to obtain the FCM, as I did not want to embark on this journey until I was confident I met all the requirements. I received guidance from colleagues who encouraged me to apply, and along with my family, supported me through the process. As I reflect on the journey, it was so worth it.
I recommend that anyone who envisions themselves as a thought leader should apply. A leader is one who inspires others to do their very best. When I first started thinking about joining the fellowship program, I considered the contributions I had made in the field of case management. Two positions drove my decision to apply: serving as a past President of the CMSA Detroit chapter and currently serving on the CMSA National Board as a Board of Director. I wanted to ensure that I was a conduit for change and also one who inspired and encouraged others to follow the path of leadership.
As a certified case manager for over 20 years, I have seen the evolution of case management and how it has grown to exemplify its progression. Although case management has been embraced in the health care arena, there is still a need to continue outreach and to renew client advocacy within case management. Becoming a Fellow allows one to be an asset with a voice.
Though I have made significant contributions to the professional practice of case management, I feel I have more to accomplish, and having this designation will help catapult me even further. I plan to remain present in the community while educating all I encounter about what it means to be a case manager, particularly the younger generation (through succession planning). Acquiring the designation not only confirmed and validated the work that I do, but it also allowed me to be one of the many “Fellow faces” that others can aspire to become. If you haven’t done so yet, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seek to be a Fellow in case management. You will be ecstatic that you did!
While you’re checking off your New Year’s resolutions, don’t forget to prioritize your professional growth. January is the perfect time to reconnect with others just as passionate about case management as you are. Our upcoming events can help you make those vital connections while supporting your expertise.
Let’s start 2026 together: https://bit.ly/490ElSC
Bio: Vivian Greenway, PhD, MSA, BSN, RN, PAHM, CCM, FCM has over 30 years of clinical experience in the acute care and managed care environment with emphasis on clinical education and quality management. Over the years, Dr. Greenway has worked in leadership and project management positions within healthcare specializing in management of health promotion, disease management and provider education activities. In her current role. she organizes and coordinates activities to ensure full compliance with regulatory and licensing agencies and employer groups relative to medical management activities, including accreditation site surveys and regulatory reviews. Dr. Greenway’s role in the organization is instrumental in promoting the welfare and increasing the usefulness and advancement of healthcare case management. Her goal is to continue to lead effectively, and in addition to continue to be an innovative force and exude excellence as it relates to case management. She currently serves as Board Director on the National CMSA Board and previously served as the CMSA Chapter Council President Representative representing the chapter presidents across the United States and as Chapter President for CMSA Detroit. In addition to her doctorate in Human Services (graduated with Distinction), she has a Masters of Science in Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Dr. Greenway was also selected and participated as a residency fellow in the Minority Management Development Program which promoted management diversity in managed healthcare. Along with her acquired degrees, she has a Health Services Administration certificate from Central Michigan University; is a certified case manager (CCM), and has obtained the distinction of Professional, Academy for Healthcare Management (PAHM). In addition to her continued education, she is also a member of the National Management Association. Dr. Greenway was the recipient of the 2023 Distinguished Alumni for Nursing Excellence award at Oakland University’s 35th Annual Nightingale Awards. The award is presented to a nurse who is a graduate of the School of Nursing and is making meaningful contributions to the field as well as demonstrating the high standards of clinical competence and leadership characteristics emphasized by the university.