» Award Overview
» Biography
» Past Winners and Recognition

The Abraham Horwitz Award for Excellence in Leadership in Inter-American Public Health, created in 1975, honors creative public health leaders whose commitment to public health stimulates excellence among their peers, staff, and other public health professionals. Indeed, new leaders emerge under the influence of this award's winners. Further, the leadership demonstrated by award winners has an impact beyond their borders and throughout the Americas.

This award is one of the awards presented by the Pan American Health and Education Foundation through its Awards for Excellence in Inter-American Public Health Program, a partnership between PAHEF and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

The Horwitz Award recognizes committed leaders and their contributions to public health resulting in region-wide improvements in the lives of the peoples of the Americas. They lead by example and participate willingly in hands-on public health work, be it examining and treating patients, assessing the environmental health status of a community, analyzing health statistics and studying the distribution of diseases across the region, or controlling the vectors of tropical diseases.

Like Dr. Horwitz, past winners have selflessly served the public's health, championed change, and managed risks, all for the enhancement of health beyond their own borders. They have demonstrated leadership and dedication to the highest standards of excellence in the field of public health throughout the Americas.

In addition to the recognition of professional accomplishments, the award calls attention to health concerns throughout the Hemisphere, and is intended to inspire continuing achievements in region-wide health by professionals.

A select international jury of public health professionals reviews nominations and recommends a candidate to the board of directors of PAHEF for their final selection.

The awardee receives a cash prize, certificate of honor, and a paid trip to Washington, DC, to receive the award at the annual PAHO/PAHEF Awards for Excellence in Inter-American Public Health Event and is recognized before the ministers of health of the region at the PAHO Directing Council Meeting.