Champions for Gateway Medical Society Scholarship Gala [New Pittsburgh Courier (PA)]

On Oct. 29 at the Marriot City Center, The Gateway Medical Society held their annual Physician of the Year Gala. Instead of honoring one physician, this year they honored nine individuals who have been champions for Gateway Medical Society (GMS).

The theme of the Scholarship Gala was "Closing the Gap." Hundreds enjoyed an evening of dining, dancing and honoring the champions. Also recognized were the young men who are part of the Journey to Medicine Mentor Program. These youngsters start the program in the sixth grade and are mentored by members of the Society with hopes that they will stay on course to become physicians. Scholarships were awarded to Cynthia Grady, Enyinna Nwachuku, Dahlia Raymond and Sharmeeke Taylor. Each one of these students is currently well on their way to a career in medicine.

A stunning video presentation introduced the champions: Carmen Anderson, senior officer Endowments Children, Youth and Families Program; Dr. Barbara Barnes, MS, associate vice chancellor for continuing education and industry relationships, associate dean for CME at the University of Pittsburgh and vice president of sponsored programs, research support, and continuing medical education for UPMC; Robert Connamacher, PhD, after 15 years of retirement he is active in teaching medicine to underrepresented students; Yvonne Cook, president of the Highmark Foundation and vice president for community affairs; Marcia Martin, vice president of Gateway Health Plan; Sylvester Pace, president and CEO of NEED; Anna M. Roman, PhD, MPA, senior vice president of administrative services and physician relations in the UPMC Physician Services Division; Dr. Loren Roth, MPH, associate senior vice chancellor for clinic policy and planning, Health Sciences, University of Pittsburgh; and Aaron Walton, retired health insurance executive, most recently serving on Highmark's Executive Leadership Team.

Lynne Hayes-Freeland made a return appearance as the emcee and Deejay Sly Jock rocked the house.

The GMS is a component society of the National Medical Association (NMA). The NMA's objectives are to promote the science and the art of medicine and the betterment of public health.

by Debbie Norrell

Courier Staff Writer