About the Howell Award


Each year, the CSU Shiley Haynes Institute for Palliative Care seeks nominations for the annual Doris A. Howell, MD, Award for Advancing Palliative Care established by the Institute. This award recognizes an active healthcare professional whose work has significantly advanced palliative care in the greater San Diego community. Named after the late Dr. Howell, a legendary physician, pioneer in pediatric hematology, oncology, and community medicine, and founder of San Diego Hospice and the Institute for Palliative Medicine, the award honors her enduring legacy. By recognizing these exceptional contributions, the Howell Award encourages continued innovation and excellence in palliative care.

Our Past Recipients


Past recipients of the Doris A. Howell, MD Award for Advancing Palliative Care were initially nominated by a colleague who recognized their great work, and later selected by a team of professional reviewers. These distinguished healthcare professionals have made significant contributions to palliative care in the greater San Diego community. Their efforts have notably improved care quality, enhanced access to services, and raised awareness of palliative care’s benefits. Many have been involved in research, education, public policy, and the establishment of professional standards. What truly sets these past award recipients apart are their exceptional qualities and achievements, making them exemplary advocates for the field.

2023 & 2024 Recipients:

Dr. Glenn Panzer, M.D., C.M.D., F.A.A.F.P.

9th Year Recipient
April 16, 2025
Beneficiary: Elizabeth Hospice

 

MaryCarol Reeder, NP

8th Year Recipient
April 16, 2024
Beneficiary: Pathways Program at Hospice of the North Coast

2021 Recipients:

Allison Kestenbaum, NAJC, APC, ACPE

6th Year Recipient
March 22, 2022
Beneficiary: UCSD Hospital & ACPE

Ami Doshi, MD

6th Year Recipient
March 22, 2022
Beneficiary: Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation

2019 & 2018 Recipient:

Jill Mendlen, MD, RN

4th Year Recipient
January 10, 2020
Beneficiary: LightBridge Hospice Community Foundation

 

Christine (Chris) Knutson, RN, MSN

3rd Year Recipient
January 10, 2019
Beneficiary: San Diego Coalition for Compassionate Care

2017 Recipients:

Kimberly Bower, MD

2nd Year Recipient
January 9, 2018
Beneficiary: Rady Children’s Hospital Foundation

Gary Buckholz MD, FAAHPM

2nd Year Recipient
January 9, 2018
Beneficiary: UC San Diego Foundation

 

2016 Recipients:

Daniel Hoefer, MD

1st Year Recipient
September 7, 2016

 

Suzi K. Johnson, MPH, RN

1st Year Recipient
September 7, 2016