Dr. Gagani Athauda
In a heartfelt celebration of mentorship and medical tradition, the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Class of 2025 bestowed the Hippocratic Award on Dr. Gagani Athauda, assistant dean for Alumni Teaching and Advising, for her unwavering dedication to shaping future physicians.
Now in its second year, the award—rooted in the legacy of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine—recognizes a faculty member who embodies professionalism, compassion and a commitment to healing.
Athauda’s name now joins Dr. Sarah Stumbar’s, last year’s inaugural recipient, on a plaque beside a wire sculpture of the Hippocratic Tree outside the Office of Student Affairs.
Athauda, who joined FIU in 2011, has guided countless students with her empathetic, rigorous approach. Her accolades include the college’s Excellence in Teaching Award (twice); the FIU Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching; and multiple Advisor and Mentor of the Year honors.
“Growth, impact and gratitude guide my journey, and I hope they will yours,” she told rising third-year students at the ceremony, her words echoing the values of Hippocrates’ timeless oath.
The award, inspired by a sycamore tree under which Hippocrates reportedly taught 2,000 years ago, carries deep symbolism. A descendant of that tree thrives on the Greek island of Kos, and a cutting gifted from the University of Florida grows in FIU’s Grounds Nursery, poised to one day grace the medical school’s campus, if the South Florida climate allows.
“The Hippocratic tree’s deep roots symbolize the traditions of compassionate care and ethical conduct.”
— Dean Juan Cendan, on the significance of the Hippocratic Award.
The ceremony also marked a pivotal moment for the Class of 2027, as rising third-year students received pins etched with the sycamore tree, signifying their transition from classroom to clinical rotations.
“This pin reminds you of your sacred oath to prioritize patients’ welfare,” Cendan told them, highlighting the blend of professionalism and empathy central to FIU’s training.
Dr. Sarah Stumbar and Dr. Gagani Athauda
Stumbar, associate dean for Student Affairs, reflected on her 2024 award, noting, “Medicine is a privilege because patients entrust you with their stories— Stories with a capital S.” As a primary care provider in FIU’s Green Family Foundation NeighborhoodHELP program, she models the holistic care she teaches, a standard Athauda upholds in her mentorship.
The event also celebrated standout students from the Class of 2027: Lauren Waidner (Outstanding Academic Performance), Audrey Petersen (Outstanding Community Service), Christelle Bucag (Outstanding Leadership), and David Harbaugh (Dan Castellanos Ph.D. Professionalism Award).
This new award and tradition reflect the college’s mission to cultivate not just skilled doctors but compassionate leaders. And as FIU’s sapling grows, so does its legacy.