The Flora Katsnelson Award for Excellence

The Flora Katsnelson Award for Excellence honors the legacy of Dr. Flora Katsnelson, a visionary healthcare leader and co-founder of the Fibroid Fighters Foundation whose dedication to patient advocacy and community health continues to inspire meaningful change.

Presented annually, the award celebrates leaders who embody her spirit of service, innovation, and community impact.

Recipients embody the compassion, dedication, and spirit of service that defined Dr. Katsnelson’s legacy.

Meet Our 2026 Flora Award Honorees

Honoring leaders whose work advances health equity, community wellness, and access to care

Vanessa L. GibsonPaloma Izquierdo-Hernandez
Bronx Borough PresidentPresident and CEO, Urban Health Plan
Kathy Morales
Account Executive, Merit Medical

Celebrating a Legacy of Impact

Since 2021, the Flora Katsnelson Award for Excellence has celebrated a distinguished group of leaders, advocates, healthcare professionals, and organizations whose efforts have communities and improved lives. Together, these honorees reflect a shared commitment to positive action, innovation and creating positive change.

Know Someone Making a Difference?

Each year, the Flora Katsnelson Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose dedication and leadership are helping create healthier, stronger communities. If you know someone whose work deserves recognition, we encourage you to submit a nomination.

Contact us at [email protected] for application materials and submission guidelines.