Celebrating Excellence in Graduate Medical Education Awards 2026

Recognizing Excellence in Graduate Medical Education

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) proudly announces the recipients of the 2026 ACGME Awards. These awards celebrate notable individuals, programs, and organizations which have made significant contributions to the realm of graduate medical education (GME). The recognized achievements exemplify dedication and innovation, helping to enhance the GME community.

Celebrating the ACGME Award Recipients

This year's ACGME Awards spotlight individuals and institutions that go beyond the basics to foster an enviable culture within medical education. Reflecting on their exceptional contributions, ACGME President and Chief Executive Officer Debra Weinstein, MD, remarked on the privilege of shining a light on outstanding professionals who exemplify leadership and commitment in GME.

Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Award

This particular award honors those working diligently in ACGME-accredited institutions to positively shape the future healthcare workforce. The recipient for 2026 is Wayne State University School of Medicine for its outstanding work in fostering a respectful learning atmosphere.

David C. Leach Award

The David C. Leach Award celebrates the efforts of residents and fellows who have innovated their training programs or enhanced educational outcomes. This year’s recipients include individuals from diverse specialties:

• Katrina L. Heiss, DO; Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Psychiatry
• Rachel Moss, MD; Icahn School of Medicine, Pediatrics
• Brannan E. O'Neill, MD; Oregon Health & Science University, Neurological Surgery
• Jamie Pfaff, MD; Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Cardiovascular Diseases
• Kaitlyn Walter, MD; Onvida Health Yuma Regional Medical Center, Family Medicine

Debra L. Dooley GME Program Coordinator Excellence Award

Aimed at recognizing exceptional program coordinators, this award honors those with a profound understanding of the accreditation process and exceptional interpersonal skills. Recipients for this year include:

• Jacqueline D. Barrera; University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Stephanie Chairs, MBA; Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Surgery
• Annie Detrick; The University of Chicago, Orthopaedic Surgery
• Chantal Littrean, MPH, C-TAGME; SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Internal Medicine
• Fatima Salas, MHA, C-TAGME; Oregon Health & Science University, Obstetrics and Gynecology

GME Institutional Coordinator Excellence Award

This award applauds institutional coordinators who skillfully navigate the complex roles in residency programs. Notable recipients this year include:

• Catherine Klein, MBA; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
• Tery Noseworthy, C-TAGME; Boston Children’s Hospital
• Carol S. Sundberg, BS; University of Minnesota

Lewis Blackman Patient Safety Award

This prestigious award is given to residents and fellows who have significantly improved patient safety within their programs. The recipient includes:

• Michael Kochis, MD, EdM; Massachusetts General Hospital, Surgery

Parker J. Palmer Courage to Lead Award

Recognizing leadership and innovative practices, this award is bestowed upon:

• I. Michael Leitman, MD; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
• Dotun A. Ogunyemi, MD; Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
• James P. Orlando, EdD; St. Lukes University Health Network

Parker J. Palmer Courage to Teach Award

Highlighting exemplary program directors, this award emphasizes the importance of role models in medical education. The 2026 recipients are:

• Megan Aylor, MD; Oregon Health & Science University, Pediatrics
• Nikki Binz, MD; University of North Carolina Hospitals, Emergency Medicine
• Suzanne Karan, MD; University of Rochester, Anesthesiology
• Salahuddin Kazi, MD; UT Southwestern Medical Center, Rheumatology
• Lisa R. Merlin, MD; SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Neurology
• Nicole P. Scott, MD; Indiana University School of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Greg Sullivan, MD; University of South Florida, Geriatric Psychiatry
• Julie A. Venci, MD; University of Colorado School of Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics
• Amber Whited-Watson, DO; The MetroHealth System, Family Medicine
• Aimee K. Zaas, MD; Duke University Hospital, Internal Medicine

Thomas J. Nasca Professionalism Award

In this inaugural year, the Thomas J. Nasca Professionalism Award honors organizations that uphold patient-centered care and ethical practices. The recipient is Baylor College of Medicine Center for Professionalism.

Looking Ahead

With such significant contributions to GME, the ACGME is excited to share highlights of this year's awardees through its blog leading up to the Annual Educational Conference. As the next nomination period for the 2027 ACGME Awards approaches in November, this is an opportune moment for recognition of excellence in medical education.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ACGME Awards?

The ACGME Awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations making significant contributions to graduate medical education.

Who was honored with the Barbara Ross-Lee, DO Award?

Wayne State University School of Medicine received this award for promoting a respectful and dynamic learning environment.

What is the purpose of the David C. Leach Award?

This award celebrates residents and fellows who have instigated innovation and improvement within their medical training programs while focusing on educational outcomes.

How does the ACGME support medical education?

ACGME is responsible for accrediting residency and fellowship programs that impact the education of resident physicians across the United States.

When will the next nomination period for the ACGME Awards open?

The nomination period for the 2027 ACGME Awards will open in November 2025, encouraging new applicants for recognition.

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