Lauren Berkow, M.D., FASA, professor of anesthesiology, has been recognized by the University of Florida Office of Sustainability as a champion for change in 2025. Champions for Change awards are given out each year for efforts in sustainability as well as health and wellness. Berkow was chosen for a Sustainability Champion for Change award due to her dedication to environmental conscientiousness at UF Health.
Berkow is co-chair of the UF Health Shands Sustainability Committee and has led numerous sustainability initiatives at UF Health including waste reduction in the OR and recycling programs in the hospitals. Her efforts have helped UF Health earn Practice Greenhealth Environmental Excellence awards annually since 2018. Additionally, Berkow’s creation of educational courses and organization of Earth Day celebrations has significantly raised awareness in the healthcare community.
Nominations for the Champions for Change awards are judged by a review committee looking for individuals or groups who demonstrate problem solving, innovative thinking, and outstanding service that has a positive impact on the overall goals of sustainability or health and wellness. In the sustainability category, winners have made substantial efforts to improve things like waste reduction, water or energy conservation, and sustainability education.
Congratulations, Dr. Berkow!