Columbus, Ga. (May 15, 2026) - Piedmont Columbus Regional recently hosted its 13th annual Physician Recognition Program at the Big Eddy Club, recognizing a physician of the year in the categories of clinical care, leadership and teaching.
“This program acknowledges the vital role our medical staff members play in the success of our organization,” said Piedmont Columbus Chief Medical Officer Chris Edwards, M.D. “Patients and team members nominate physicians that have made an impact on them.”
Below are the 2026 award winners:
· Howard S. Weldon, Jr. Excellence in Physician Leadership Award - Dr. Gurkeerat Singh (Medical Director of the ICU at Piedmont Columbus)
· Excellence in Teaching - Dr. Subhendu De (Medical Director of the Pediatric ICU and Pediatric Hospital Medicine program at the Bill and Olivia Amos Children's Hospital)
· Excellence in Clinical Care, Midtown Campus - Dr. Jason Tsai
· Excellence in Clinical Care, Northside Campus - Dr. Olutoyin Okanlawon
Also at the reception, the Piedmont Columbus Foundation inducted 15 physicians in the 2026 Honored Society. These physicians had grateful patients who made contributions to the Foundation in their honor.
· Dr. Doug Ciuba
· Dr. James Cunningham
· Dr. Greg Foster
· Dr. Harvey Harris
· Dr. Jefferson Jones Sr.
· Dr. Mukesh Kumar
· Dr. Steven Leichter
· Dr. Woodrow McWilliams III
· Dr. Suresh Nukala
· Dr. Andrew Pippas
· Dr. Greg Sfakianos
· Dr. Michael Steinbook
· Dr. Jai Surana
· Dr. Otis Tillman
· Dr. Elizabeth Wendel
“The Honored Society reflects the powerful connection between exceptional care and meaningful gratitude,” said Piedmont Columbus Foundation Major Gift Programs Manager LeighAnn DiCesaris. “Each of these physicians has made a profound impact on the lives of their patients, and through these gifts, that impact extends even further supporting innovation, education and the future of healthcare in our community.”
Visit Piedmont.org/PCRFoundation if you’d like to contribute to the Piedmont Columbus Foundation.
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