Collier County Medical Society (CCMS) is pleased to announce that Catherine Kowal, M.D. is the recipient of the 8th Annual CCMS Physician of the Year Award. This award honors a CCMS member who deserves special recognition for exemplary contributions to the practice of medicine and/or outstanding service to our community. Members of the Medical Society submitted nominations for this prestigious award to the CCMS Board of Directors, who have selected Dr. Kowal from the talented pool of candidates.

The award will be presented at the CCMS 65th Annual Meeting & Installation of Officers on July 16th. CCMS physician members can register for the event online, or by contacting CCMS: (239) 435-7727 or info@ccmsonline.org. Sponsorships are also available, please contact CCMS for details or download the sponsor form.

“I am honored and humbled by this award. My goal has been to be the best for my patients along with my community and for the future of medicine,” said Dr. Kowal. “Times are difficult in all aspects, but we can make a difference. I hope to continue to help the field of medicine, all our members, do the best for our patients. Thank you for this honor.”

Dr. Kowal was nominated by her colleague Dr. Rebekah Bernard, who described her numerous leadership activities at the local and state level, her successful rheumatology practice, legislative advocacy representing physicians and patients, and efforts on behalf of physician wellness and the CCMS Women’s Health Forum public service event.

“Dr. Kowal is almost always in attendance at every CCMS function where she provides support and mentorship for her fellow physicians,” shared Dr. Bernard. “I think we can all try to ‘Be like Cathy!’ especially in her poise, tact, diplomacy, kindness, and compassion.”

“We are honored to recognize those physicians who are doing outstanding work in their practices and have displayed a steadfast commitment to our community by sharing their time, talents and expertise to go above and beyond,” commented CCMS Board President, Dr. Alejandro Perez-Trepichio. “Congratulations, Dr. Kowal, we appreciate all you do to promote good health in Collier County.”