People Notes

Dean Gonnella receives three distinguished awards from the medical community

Joseph S. Gonnella, MD, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, Jefferson Medical College, recently received awards from three different organizations in the medical community for his contributions to medicine and community service.

The Hepatitis B Foundation selected Dr. Gonnella as the first recipient of its Founders Award presented at the organization's spring gala. His selection was in recognition of his establishing the first research laboratory at Jefferson for Hepatitis B research. His continued support of the Foundation has been responsible for other research initiatives.

Dr. Gonnella was presented with The Clarence E. Shaffrey, S.J. Award by Francis E. Rosato, Chairman, Department of Surgery, JMC, representing the Medical Alumni of Saint Joseph's University. The award has been presented each year since 1951 to an individual dedicated to medical education. The award is in memory of Rev. Clarence E. Shaffrey, S.J. who joined Saint Joseph's University in 1926 and is responsible for establishing the school's pre-medical education program.

In addition to the two awards from area organizations, Dr. Gonnella was also named an honorary member of the National Academy of Medicine of Mexico.