President and CEO of Meharry Medical College, James E. K. Hildreth, Ph.D., M.D., presented the School of Medicine 2025 graduate D’Asia Holloway, M.D., and Professor Edilberto A. Raynes, Ph.D., M.D., with the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award during Meharry’s 150th Commencement.
Meharry Medical College is one of the black colleges supported by the Black College Fund which provides financial support to maintain solid, challenging academic programs; strong faculties; and well-equipped facilities.
The Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award honors graduating medical students and faculty members who demonstrate exceptional compassion, empathy, and respect in their care for patients and families. Recipients of this national award are also inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society, a community of medical professionals dedicated to advancing human-centered care.
Serving Community Brings Joy
Dr. Holloway will continue her medical training at AnMed Primary Care – Family Medicine Residency in Anderson, South Carolina. “I’m honored to receive this award. My passion for community service was ignited in me during my years at Spelman College where I spent time volunteering in the surrounding community. I found great joy in serving in my community so much so that I continued my community service work long after it was a requirement in Atlanta and throughout my time at Meharry. As a physician, I will continue to find opportunities to serve my community outside of the hospital. I aim to live my life like that of Dr. Tow; “with great compassion and respect for others” as I advocate for colleagues, students, and others and advocate for humanitarianism in medicine,” said Dr. Holloway.
Advocating Holistic Patient Care
Professor Raynes, who teaches in the School of Medicine Department of Professional and Medical Education, said receiving the award is an incredible honor and a profound responsibility.
“This recognition underscores the vital role that empathy, compassion, and kindness play in medical education and healthcare. It serves as a reminder that medicine is not just about clinical expertise; it’s about connecting with the students, the future doctors, as well as with patients on a human level. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, mentors, and students who have inspired and supported me throughout my journey to inculcate the true meaning of educating future physicians. This award motivates me to continue to find meaningful ways of the true purpose of our existence and advocate for a holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual experiences and fostering meaningful interactions. It is all about creating a difference and being impactful to the students.”
story by Brandon Marshall, Communications Director of the School of Medicine
One of seven apportioned giving opportunities of The United Methodist Church, the Black College Fund provides financial support to maintain solid, challenging academic programs; strong faculties; and well-equipped facilities at 11 United Methodist-related historically black colleges and universities. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Black College Fund apportionment at 100 percent.
