At ACTG, the annual memorial awards stand as enduring tributes to individuals whose names embody the very ideals and qualities that define our community. Each award honors those who have made indelible contributions to our mission, reflecting values of innovation, collaboration, and compassion in the fight against HIV and its comorbidities. These names not only symbolize excellence in research and service but also serve as inspirations for current and future generations of scientists and caregivers within the ACTG network.
John Carey Early-Stage Investigator Award: William Fischer, MD
From Dr. David Wohl
“Few could embody those ideals as well as Billy, who at any moment can be found in full PPE holding the hand of child with a viral hemorrhagic fever, attending to a ventilated patient in the UNC ICU, or leading a team call to design the next ACTG study of an emerging pathogen. Given their shared values, I believe in honoring Billy we honor John.”
James Hakim International Investigator Mentor Award: Ian Sanne, MBChB
From Dr. Joseph Eron
“Dr. Sanne’s leadership is marked by steadiness, insight, and a profound understanding of the realities faced by sites in resource-limited settings. His advocacy for these sites and their investigators has been tireless and transformative, propelling the ACTG forward in its global mission. His mentorship has empowered countless international investigators, and his encouragement has helped shape a generation of leaders in HIV/AIDS research. His leadership has not only shaped the strategic direction of our global efforts but has also been deeply personal and hands-on.”
Kevin Robertson Memorial Award: Marion Peters, MD
From Phyllis Tien, UCSF
“Marion Peters is the quintessential mentor—generous with her time, genuine in her advice, a giant in the HIV and hepatitis field, and a role model to women in academic medicine. She inspires everyone around her with her energy, enthusiasm, and humor. She is most deserving of the Robertson Award.”
Constance B. Wofsy Women’s Health Investigator Award: Sara Looby, PhD
From Dr. Sara Bares, Dr. Michael Yin, and Dr. Markella Zanni
“Dr. Looby has leveraged her own unique path to success in academic medicine to inspire and support future generations of scientists, including and especially nurse-scientists. As influencer of research culture, Dr. Looby leads by example, with heart, wisdom, and humility. She works tirelessly to ensure that a diverse array of community members are engaged as partners in patient-oriented research and that findings from such research make their way back to the community.”
Donna Davis Community Award Winners:
Christie Lyn Costanza MPH, BSN, RN, CCRC
From Dr. Shobha Swaminathan
“Christie Lyn is a confidante of any private concerns in our lives. Our RCAB members can call on her anytime of the day or night. Not only is she our mentor, making sure we understand the protocols, but she also puts them in everyday situations for us to further understand. She is more than just our liaison, she is a friend, comforter, nurturer, and family.”
Marvin Hanashiro
From Dr. Susan Little
“Marvin has been the CAB secretary for as long as I have served on the CAB, and his behind-the- scenes efforts are a key reason our CAB runs so smoothly and effectively. Marvin’s work extends far beyond administrative support—he plays an extraordinary role in community engagement and participant recruitment for ACTG studies. For many, Marvin is the face of the UCSD AVRC.”
Gwynneth Hendricks
From Siphokazi Khonwane
“Gwynneth has been instrumental in mentoring and developing our CAB membership. She believes in community development and upliftment and has demonstrated her commitment in striving to lower the burden of TB and HIV through progressive and participatory research practices.”