First awarded in 2011, this award recognizes an oncologist who personifies ASCO’s mission and values by going above and beyond the call of duty in providing outstanding patient care through innovative means or exceptional service or leadership in the U.S.A. or abroad. It is presented to individuals who distinguish themselves through voluntary and non-compensated humanitarian endeavors. A multitude of service will be considered and is not restricted to any one type of action or deed involving patients.

The award is presented during the ASCO Annual Meeting and the recipient is highlighted in ASCO Daily News, on the ASCO website and in other Annual Meeting publications. The recipient is invited to participate in a moderated panel discussion featuring special award recipients and focusing on leadership and mentorship

The award consists of a $5,000 honorarium, a commemorative plaque, and support to the recipient to attend the Annual Meeting in the year the award is conferred. 

Eligibility

To be eligible for this award, candidates must

  • Be an ASCO member at the time of nomination
  • Demonstrate a long record of achievement, seminal contributions and contributions outside of their clinical, research and educational responsibilities.
  • Be nominated by another; self-nomination is not allowed for this award.

This award may only be awarded to an individual once. Please review the list of past recipients.

Nomination Process

  • There is no restriction on the number of nominees from any one institution.
  • Nominators are required to provide a statement detailing the nominee’s humanitarian efforts including their years of participation. There will be no cutoff period imposed for the period the actual humanitarian service was done.
  • Supplementary materials or supporting documentation of the nominees’ humanitarian efforts such as photos, videos, press releases, and/or newspaper articles may be submitted upon request of ASCO Staff.

 

Selection

Candidates for the award are nominated by the ASCO membership and are considered by the Joint Special Awards Selection Committee. The Committee considers all nominations as they have been submitted; recommendations are then forwarded to the Board of Directors for final approval.

ASCO Board Members and Officers are not eligible to receive Special Awards from the time they are elected through the end of the calendar year in which their Board terms conclude. Joint Special Award Selection Committee members are not eligible to receive Special Awards during their service on the Committee.

Please send all inquiries about this award to Special Awards.

2024 Recipient
Satish Gopal, MD, MPH