Celebrating the 2026 MLA Fellows: Leadership, Scholarship, and Service in Action
The Medical Library Association is proud to recognize four outstanding professionals as 2026 MLA Fellows—one of the highest honors awarded to members whose sustained achievements have significantly advanced the profession of health sciences librarianship.
Each year, MLA Fellows are selected for their demonstrated excellence, leadership, and lasting contributions to the field. The 2026 cohort reflects a diverse range of expertise and impact across academic health sciences libraries, education, research, and professional service.
Amy Blevins, AHIP
Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Amy Blevins, AHIP, is recognized for her dedication to advancing health sciences librarianship through leadership, collaboration, and commitment to professional development. Her work at the Indiana University School of Medicine has supported faculty, students, and clinicians through innovative services and outreach. An MLA past president, Blevins has also contributed significantly to the profession through active engagement in MLA initiatives and mentorship of colleagues. MLA proudly celebrates Amy Blevins’s sustained leadership with this well-deserved recognition as an MLA Fellow.
Kelly Gonzalez
University of Texas SW Medical Center, Dallas, TX
Kelly Gonzalez has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting research and education within the health sciences community. At the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, she has played a key role in connecting users with critical information resources and services. Gonzalez’s contributions to the profession include fostering inclusive practices and supporting the evolving needs of health sciences learners and professionals. Please join us in congratulating Kelly Gonzalez on this richly earned recognition as a 2026 MLA Fellow.
Rikke Ogawa
University of California, Irvine, CA
Rikke Ogawa is recognized for her impact on health sciences librarianship through innovative approaches to information services and user engagement. At the University of California, Irvine, she has supported a wide range of academic and clinical communities. Ogawa’s work reflects a commitment to advancing access to information and strengthening the role of libraries in health sciences education and research. MLA recognizes Rikke Ogawa’s impactful contributions with this well-earned distinction as an MLA Fellow.
Melissa Rethlefsen
The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
Melissa Rethlefsen is honored for her leadership and contributions to research support, scholarly communication, and evidence-based practice. At the University of New Mexico, she has helped shape library services that meet the needs of health professionals and researchers. Rethlefsen is also known for her active participation in professional organizations and her efforts to advance the visibility and value of health sciences libraries. MLA is honored to acknowledge Melissa Rethlefsen’s dedication to advancing the profession with this distinction as an MLA Fellow.
Gabriel Rios
Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Gabriel Rios is recognized for his commitment to advancing equitable access to information and supporting diverse communities within health sciences librarianship. His work at the Indiana University School of Medicine reflects a dedication to outreach, education, and collaboration. Rios’s contributions to the profession highlight the importance of inclusive and forward-looking library services. Please join us in congratulating Gabriel Rios on this fitting recognition as a 2026 MLA Fellow.
Please join us in applauding these distinguished colleagues for their well-earned recognition. Together, these fellows exemplify the excellence, leadership, and innovation that define the Medical Library Association and its members. Their achievements continue to shape the future of health sciences librarianship and inspire colleagues across the field to strive for excellence and to advance the mission of the MLA through collaboration, innovation, and lifelong learning.