The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) has named Susan Desmond-Hellmann, Genentech’s president of product development, as its 2006 Woman of the Year. Desmond-Hellmann is responsible for Genentech’s medical affairs, regulatory affairs, product and pipeline development and other functions. She is also a member of Genentech’s executive committee.“I am humbled by this recognition and, as HBA Woman of the Year, I am grateful for the opportunity to reach out to so many women in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries,” said Desmond-Hellmann.HBA president Debra Newton, also president of Newton Edge, paid tribute to Desmond-Hellmann’s impact in her corporate role at Genentech and her dedication to patient care. “Through her commitment to HBA and other networking opportunities, Desmond-Hellmann is a role model to many,” Newton said.Desmond-Hellmann will be honored at the HBA’s 17th Annual Woman of the Year luncheon on May 10 at the New York Hilton.