Dr. Francisco Fernandez

March 4, 2010 — USF Health psychiatrist Francisco Fernandez, MD, was one of six mental health professionals recently honored by The American College of Psychiatrists for advancing psychiatry through service, research, and clinical work. Dr. Fernandez, professor and chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at USF, was presented the Bowis Award on Feb. 27 at the College’s annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The Bowis Award is presented yearly to a member or fellow of the organization who has played an important leadership role in the College. Frank Fernandez chaired the College’s 2009 Committee on Scientific Programs, and served as a member of the Local Planning Committee, Education Committee, Psychiatry Resident In-Training Examination (PRITE) Fellowship Selection Committee, and the Board of Regents. Perhaps his greatest contribution has been through his involvement with PRITE, for which he was selected as co-editor in 1998 and editor-in-chief in 2000.

The American College of Psychiatrists is a not-for-profit honorary association dedicated to providing continuing education to its members, promoting the latest advances in the specialty, and supporting the highest standards in psychiatry. Membership in the College is limited to 750 practicing psychiatrists who have demonstrated outstanding competence and national recognition in the field of psychiatry.