ADAORA OKIGBO, SECOND FROM LEFT. (PHOTOS BY CHIEF IKHANA-HAL-MAKINA)

Gateway Medical Society, a not-for-profit organization with a seven-decade history as a health care advocate and health policy champion for the socio-economically challenged and underserved communities of greater Pittsburgh, held its “Black Excellence in White Coats Awards & Scholarship Gala,” Oct. 25, 2025, at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, Downtown.

FELICIA E. SNEAD, M.D., FASTRO

This year, Felicia E. Snead, M.D., FASTRO, was the 2025 Oswald J. Nickens, M.D., Physician of the Year. Dr. Snead’s contributions to the field of radiation oncology and progress in advancing cancer research, education and patient care along with her outstanding career as a radiation oncologist and passion for service has established her as a distinguished healthcare provider, teacher and mentor.

LAWRENCE L. GIPSON, M.D., WITH CARMEN ANDERSON

Lawrence L. Gipson, M.D., was the 2025 Lifetime Achievement awardee. The legacy that one establishes produces both an immediate and consistent impact as well as a lasting footprint that changes the landscape forever. Legacy is borne of diligent work, consistent commitment to clinical excellence, integrity and character that are above reproach, unwavering faith and remaining uncompromisingly anchored to values and targeted objectives.

PIPER CARROLL, M.D.

Piper Carroll, M.D., was the 2025 Rising Star. As a founding member of the Coalition of Residents & Fellows of Color (C-ROC), Dr. Carroll’s exemplary work embodies all of the components of Gateway’s mission, vision and core values.

Sylvia V. Fields, Past President, Eden Hall Foundation, Marcia M. Sturdivant, Ph.D., President & CEO, (N.E.E.D.) and Alice Williams, Founder-Executive Director, (WEEE) Women Empowered for Entrepreneurial Excellence, were honored with the 2025 Champion for Gateway Medical Society “Making a Difference” Award.

And Adaora Okigbo, a second-year medical student at the University of Pittsburgh, received a scholarship reserved for outstanding under-represented medical students.

Gateway Medical Society was formed in 1963 by Pittsburgh physicians Dr.. Earl B. Smith, Dr. Oswald Nickens and Dr. Charles Booker. Through the years, many physicians of color have had a positive impact on the Pittsburgh community and were members of Gateway Medical Society.

MARCIA M. STURDIVANT, PH.D., CENTER