What to Know About the Northwestern Medicine
Humanitarian Awards

For decades, Northwestern Medicine has proudly honored the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the Northwestern Medicine Humanitarian Awards. The awards celebrate members of our workforce for their humanitarian efforts.

The history of the celebration traces back to 1979, and the first five award winners on record were recognized in 1989. Since then, at least two of our team members have been honored each year for their work that reflects the ideals of community giving, equality, unity and excellence. Award recipients typically have an established history of service with significant time commitment to volunteer efforts, and have made a notable contribution to their communities.

“Northwestern Medicine has seen a tremendous amount of change over the last four decades, growing from a single hospital into a large health system,” explains Kristina Hedley, director, Human Resources, who helps to oversee the awards. “During these changes, our commitment to honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has remained steadfast. The Northwestern Medicine Humanitarian Awards serve as an opportunity for us to celebrate the members of our workforce who embody the spirit of Dr. King, giving themselves to help improve the lives of others.”

Every employee or team member from a Northwestern Medicine operating unit, campus location or clinic is eligible to be nominated by their peers. Nominations typically open in the fall, and winners are announced in January.

“We have so many extraordinary people here at Northwestern Medicine that truly embody the legacy of Dr. King,” says Hedley. “It’s never an easy decision for our selection committee, but that’s a very good problem to have.”

When you join Northwestern Medicine, you have a chance not only to make a difference, but also to be celebrated for doing so. Explore your future and what it means to join our commitment to building stronger and healthier communities.