Dr. Donna Petersen, senior associate vice president of USF Health and dean of the USF College of Public, is the first recipient of REACHUP, Inc.’s Community Advocacy Award.

REACHUP, Inc. is a Tampa-based nonprofit aimed at improving racial and ethnic equality in health care and health outcomes for area families.

The Community Advocacy Award originated to honor those who have made significant contributions to the health of the community.

“It is humbling to be honored by a group that defines what it means to serve a community,” Petersen said. “REACHUP, Inc. transitioned 20 years ago from a federal grant awarded to the College of Public Health to a community-owned non-profit resource dedicated to making lives better for families, babies and the community. They understand what it means to be true servant-leaders, a role I’m still perfecting after many years!”

According to Jeff Rock, advancement director of REACHUP, the Community Advocacy Award was created not only to recognize those who have supported REACHUP but who have also played a major role in improving the health and wellness of the community.

“A committee was formed to select the first recipient of the REACHUP Community Advocacy Award, and though there are many deserving people in the community to be recognized, it was an easy choice for this committee. Dean Petersen has been with REACHUP from the beginning, supporting the work we do, providing resources and advocating for REACHUP every chance she gets. In addition to her support of REACHUP, the award recognizes her for her commitment to the health of our community.”

Petersen was presented with the award on April 22 at REACHUP’s second annual fundraising gala.

“We share a common commitment to a better future, manifested in the ways we support women and men to have healthy babies who grow into healthy, happy, joyful adults,” Petersen said. “I am truly honored to be recognized by my friends and colleagues who do such incredible, impactful work.”

Story by Donna Campisano, USF College of Public Health