The Ohio Osteopathic is pleased to announce the George L. Eckert, Jr., DO Mentor of the Year award to honor one physician each year who has a record of offering guidance and encouragement to medical students, residents, and fellows. Any Ohio osteopathic medical student, resident, or fellow may submit a nomination by March 1, 2011. For a nomination form, criteria and additional information click here: George L. Eckert, Jr., DO Mentor of the Year Award
Funding for the award is being provided by the Osteopathic Heritage Foundations (OHF). The first annual award will be presented at the 2011 Ohio Osteopathic Symposium during the OOA Awards Luncheon, Friday, April 29. The winner will receive a plaque from the association and the OHF will present a $1,000 contribution to a charitable organization, OU-COM or any post-graduate training program of the recipient's choice.
Dr. Eckert, who died February 2, 2011, was a family physician in Columbus. He was well known by the profession as chaplain of the OOA House of Delegates, delivering the opening prayer for more than 25 years. He opened his office in 1954, on North High Street just blocks from the Ohio State University, and operated his practice with compassion and grace for over 28 years. In 1982, he accepted a position at Doctors Hospital as the director of Medical Education, a post he held until his retirement in 1991.
During his career, Dr. Eckert served as Chief of Staff at Doctors Hospital, Medical Director at Thurber Village Care Center, Board member for Peer Review Systems, Inc., member of the Columbus Board of Health for 16 years and it's President for three terms, and a Clinical Professor, for the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine.
He chaired numerous committees, councils and associations, was active in the Ohio Osteopathic Association, served as an Ohio delegate to the American Osteopathic Association and served as President of the Columbus Academy of Osteopathic Medicine. He continued his service as a trustee of the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation and the DH Foundation for many years.
Dr. Eckert cared for thousands and counseled hundreds on subjects ranging from community health, education, the practice of family medicine, professional politics, to life in general. And, most importantly, he was a friend to all those who had the privilege to know him. His faith, loving devotion to his family, and his dedication to the health and education of our community, will be remembered, treasured, and appreciated for many years to come.