Westford, MA, May 4, 2026 — Ekaru proudly announced today that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has recognized Ann Westerheim, PhD, Founder and President, on the prestigious Women of the Channel list for 2026.
This annual CRN list celebrates women from vendors, distributors, solution providers and other channel-focused organizations who make a positive difference in the IT ecosystem. The CRN 2026 Women of the Channel honorees are innovative and strategic leaders committed to advancing channel excellence and supporting the success of their partners and customers.
Ann Westerheim, PhD is the Founder and President of Ekaru, a Technology Service Provider of cybersecurity and IT services for businesses in the greater Boston area. Ann is an accomplished technology innovator and leader with three engineering degrees from MIT. She has twenty years of high-tech experience in research, advanced development, product development, and as an entrepreneur. Her career has spanned a vast range of technology endeavors including research in thin film semiconductors and superconductors, microprocessor fabrication, development of early Internet medical applications, and now focusing on the application of technology in business. She has an avid focus on the "last mile" of technology and decreasing the digital divide.
“It’s a privilege to celebrate the remarkable achievements of these women who are driving meaningful change across the IT channel,” said Jennifer Follett, VP of U.S. Content and Executive Editor, CRN at The Channel Company. “Each honoree has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to bold, innovative strategies that fuel transformation, growth, and success for their organizations and the broader channel. We’re proud to recognize their impact and look forward to seeing how they continue to shape the future of our industry.”
“I’m honored to be recognized on the Women of the Channel list alongside so many accomplished leaders in the technology industry. At Ekaru, our mission has always been to help businesses use technology securely, effectively, and strategically to support their growth and resilience. This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team and our commitment to delivering trusted cybersecurity and IT guidance to the organizations we serve throughout the greater Boston area.” — Ann Westerheim
The 2026 Women of the Channel will be featured online beginning May 4 at crn.com/wotc.
About Ekaru
Ekaru is a trusted provider of managed IT services, cybersecurity, Microsoft 365 cloud solutions, and business communications for small and midsize organizations throughout the Boston area. We help businesses improve productivity, reduce risk, and gain peace of mind through responsive support and strategic technology guidance. With a focus on security, reliability, and long-term client relationships, Ekaru delivers practical solutions that help organizations operate efficiently and grow with confidence every day. For more information, visit ekaru.com.
Ekaru is a registered trademark of Ekaru, LLC.
About The Channel Company
The Channel Company (TCC) is the global leader in channel growth for the world’s top technology brands. We accelerate success across strategic channels for tech vendors, solution providers and end users with premier media brands, integrated marketing and event services, strategic consulting, and exclusive market and audience insights. TCC is a portfolio company of investment funds managed by EagleTree Capital, a New York City-based private equity firm. For more information, visit thechannelco.com.
Follow The Channel Company: LinkedIn and X.
© 2026 The Channel Company, Inc. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
.png)
