Dr. Juan C. Cendan, dean of the Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, congratulates Dr. Gagani Athauda, this year’s Hippocratic Award recipient.
Class of 2025 Select Dr. Gagani Athauda for Hippocratic Award
The Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine Class of 2025 selected Dr. Gagani Athauda, assistant dean for Alumni Teaching and Advising, as this year’s recipient of the Hippocratic Award in recognition of her outstanding mentorship and unwavering dedication to medical education.
Now in its second year, the Hippocratic Award is rooted in a tradition that dates back more than 2,000 years to Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. Each graduating class selects one faculty member who exemplifies the values Hippocrates championed—professionalism, compassion, and a deep commitment to the healing profession.
“It is no surprise today that we recognize Dr. Athauda’s dedication to teaching, scholarship, and service,” said Dr. Sarah Stumbar, interim associate dean for Student Affairs and the inaugural recipient of the Hippocratic Award, during the ceremony.
See all photos from the ceremony.
Since joining the college in 2011, Athauda has guided students through every phase of medical school. Her teaching has earned recognition at the institutional, national, and international levels, including the college’s Excellence in Teaching Award—twice—and the FIU Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching. Students have also named her Advisor and Mentor of the Year multiple times.
“Growth, impact, and gratitude—three words that have guided me throughout my journey and that I hope will accompany you in the years ahead,” said Athauda, addressing rising third-year medical students at the ceremony.
Athauda’s name will join Stumbar’s on a plaque accompanying a wire sculpture of the Hippocratic Tree displayed outside the Office of Student Affairs.
Pinning ceremony
The ceremony also includes the annual pinning of rising third-year medical students, each receiving a pin engraved with the outline of a sycamore tree inspired by the tree under which Hippocrates reportedly taught his students.
This moment marks a pivotal transition in their medical education as they move from classroom learning to clinical rotations—their first step into the world of patient care.
Dean Cendan emphasized the symbolic meaning behind the tree etched on the pin, noting that its deep roots are intentional. “They symbolize the deep-rooted traditions and values that underpin the medical profession, including a commitment to compassionate patient care, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of knowledge.”
He encouraged students to look at the pin as a reminder of the sacred oath they took during their White Coat Ceremony and the responsibility of caring for patients.
The ceremony also recognized standout students from the Class of 2027.
Outstanding Academic Performance Award
Lauren Waidner
Outstanding Community Service Award
Audrey Petersen
Outstanding Leadership Award
Christelle Bucag
Dan Castellanos Ph.D. Professionalism Award
David Harbaugh