2026 Dean’s Excellence Awards showcase impact across education, research and patient care

Faculty, staff and leaders from The Ohio State University College of Medicine gathered this month for the annual Dean’s Excellence Awards Gala, honoring individuals whose dedication and talent advance the college’s tripartite mission of education, research and patient care.

Throughout the evening, 11 faculty and staff members were recognized for the remarkable impact they are making across the college. The awards highlight excellence in teaching and mentorship, groundbreaking discovery, compassionate clinical care and the essential professional work that supports these efforts every day.

The evening served as a reminder that the college’s mission is powered by its people, said Amy Moore, MD, interim dean of the Ohio State College of Medicine.

“Our faculty set the standard — through the way you teach, mentor and push the boundaries of what’s possible,” Moore said. “And our staff bring that mission to life in countless essential ways — often behind the scenes, but always with expertise and care.

“Thank you for bringing your whole heart and your full talent to this work,” she said.

The efforts of the honorees translate directly into meaningful outcomes for learners, patients and the community, said John J. Warner, MD, CEO of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and executive vice president at Ohio State.

“Because of you, our learners are better prepared, our discoveries are changing lives, and our patients and families are receiving the care and compassion they deserve,” Warner said. “Each of you represents the very best of Ohio State and the College of Medicine. It’s an honor to celebrate your leadership and the meaningful difference you make.”

That spirit of shared purpose was echoed by award recipients throughout the evening, who spoke about the collaborative culture that defines Ohio State. For Candice Askwith, PhD, associate professor and vice chair of Research in the Department of Neuroscience, that culture is central to advancing discovery.

“Team science is really driven by people who believe that collaboration multiplies impact and innovation,” said Askwith, recipient of the Excellence Award for Team Science Research. “At Ohio State, we prove that every day, and it’s an honor to be part of a community that truly values working together.”

In her more than 20 years of service at Ohio State, Lisa Di Tomasso, MS, RD, LD, director of Student Services in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, has seen her share of change, but her commitment to learner success has never wavered.

“We don’t ever stay still, we’re always moving forward,” said Di Tomasso, who received the Distinguished Staff Award. “Our students are our beacon, and their ability and confidence to be successful Buckeyes is the most important thing for us. It’s an honor to be recognized for this work.”

For Mark Drew, PhD, associate clinical professor and director of Graduate Education in the Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, shaping how students think and equipping them to be lifelong learners is an important responsibility.

“Our job isn’t simply to deliver content,” said Drew, who received the Distinguished Foundational Science Educator Award. “It’s how we shape future scientists and clinicians — helping them learn to think, to see how small pieces assemble into a coherent whole, to stay curious about the unknown and thoughtfully challenge dogma. Those habits are what drive excellence, both at the bench and at the bedside.”

The recognition from the Dean’s Excellence Awards ultimately reflects a shared dedication to service, said Jeffrey Janis, MD, FACS, clinical professor and vice chair of Academic Affairs in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

“It’s truly an honor and a privilege to get out of bed every morning and do what we do,” said Janis, who received the Distinguished Professor Award. “That mission is in our hearts. We don’t do this work for awards or recognition; we do it to serve the patients we see every single day.”

The nomination window for the 2027 Dean’s Excellence Awards will be open from May 1–June 30. Faculty and staff are encouraged to nominate colleagues who are excelling in their careers and making exceptional contributions to the College of Medicine community.