Each year, the ACR recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology through an awards program, and individuals are nominated for ACR Awards of Distinction and for a Master designation by their colleagues. This year, nominations will be accepted through May 15, and award recipients are recommended to the ACR board of directors by the Committee on Nominations and Appointments in late summer. Awards will be presented at the ACR Annual Scientific Meeting’s Opening Lecture.
Award recipients each year express feelings of gratitude and honor that their hard work and contributions to the field of rheumatology are being recognized. Recipient of the 2008 ACR Distinguished Clinical Investigator Award, Michael Weinblatt, MD, says, “It was truly a privilege to receive an ACR Award of Distinction last year. I was honored to be nominated by my colleagues and selected by the committee for this award.”
Dr. Weinblatt feels it is just as important to nominate your colleagues as it is to be nominated yourself. “[In addition to being a recipient] I have also made a concerted effort to nominate deserving individuals for ACR Awards of Distinction and Master designation for the past 10 years,” he says. “There are so many rheumatologists who have been dedicated contributors to our specialty in so many areas, and these individuals deserve recognition for their efforts. I believe it is incumbent upon all of us, as members of the rheumatology community, to bring the accomplishments of worthy individuals forward for recognition among their peers. These awards enrich not only the individual but also our specialty and the College.”
If you know an outstanding colleague or mentor who fits the descriptions of one of the awards or of the Masters designation, please nominate that individual. Visit www.rheumatology.org for more information about how to nominate a colleague or contact Rachel Myslinski, director of administration and governance, at rmyslinski@rheumatology.org.