HJNO May/Jun 2026

44 MAY / JUN 2026 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF NEW ORLEANS MEDICAL SOCIETY COLUMN MEDICAL SOCIETY THE physician community across South- east Louisiana recently came together for the 2026 Celebration of Medicine, hosted by the Medical Association of Southeast Louisiana (MASELA), Jefferson Parish Medical Society (JPMS), and Orleans Par- ish Medical Society (OPMS). This signature event highlighted the strength, unity, and ongoing contributions of organized med- icine in the region, bringing physicians together to honor leadership, service, and enduring commitment to patient care. Held in March, the program honored current leadership from MASELA, JPMS, and OPMS, including 2026 presidents and recent past presidents, emphasizing con- tinuity and collaboration across organiza- tions. A central feature of the evening was the recognition of physicians marking 50 years since their medical school graduation. This milestone tribute reflected not only longevity in practice but also decades of dedication to patient care, education, and professional leadership. The extensive list of honorees illustrates the depth of expe- rience and institutional knowledge that continues to shape healthcare delivery in Southeast Louisiana. In addition to these recognitions, sever- al distinguished awards were presented to physicians whose work exemplifies lead- neurosurgery teamwere also in attendance to show their support and pay tribute to his legacy. To learn more about the Celebration of Medicine and view the full photo gallery, visit: masela.org/celebrationofmedicine In addition to celebrating the profession, physician leaders remain actively engaged in advocacy efforts. At a recent legislative dinner hosted by the Physician Coalition, JPMS, OPMS, and MASELA board members had the opportunity to meet with state senators and representatives, strengthening relationships and engaging inmeaningful dialogue on issues impacting physicians and patients. These interactions are critical to ensuring that the physician perspective is represented in legislative decision-making and that policies reflect the realities of clinical practice and patient care. Taken together, these efforts reflect the dual priorities of organized medicine: hon- oring excellencewhile advancing advocacy. Recognizing achievements and fostering professional connection strengthens the physician community, while engagement with policymakers ensures that medicine continues to have a strong voice in shaping healthcare policy. In this context, physician membership ership and service. Josh Lowentritt, MD, was recognized as Public Health Leader for spearheading the Physicians for Preven- tion campaign, a physician-led initiative dedicated to promoting vaccines and pre- ventive care through education, advocacy, and community outreach, and focused on advancing equitable access to care for all communities. Juan Gershanik, MD, received the Pa- tient and Physician Advocate Medical Role Model Award in recognition of his steadfast advocacy for patients and physicians and his commitment to reducing barriers and preserving the integrity of the patient–phy- sician relationship. Geraldine Menard, MD, was named Physician Well-Being Champi- on in recognition of her outstanding ded- ication to physician health and well-being and her efforts to drive meaningful change by improving policies and processes across systems and organizations, and Cathi Fon- tenot, MD, was recognized as Medical Role Model for exemplifying the professional and personal qualities of an extraordinary physician and inspiring others through her integrity, actions, and commitment to the profession. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented posthumously to Roger Smith, MD. His wife, Georgie, accepted the hon- or on his behalf. Members of the Ochsner CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP, ADVOCACY, AND ENGAGEMENT in Southeast Louisiana Medicine