The Annual R. Brinkley Smithers Award

The R. Brinkley Smithers Award is presented annually by The Christopher D. Smithers Foundation as a permanent memorial to its founder, R. Brinkley Smithers. It recognizes individuals who have publicly shared the message of hope and the promise of help, and individuals whose work in the field of alcohol use disorder has had a positive impact in the fight against America’s most misunderstood disease.Around the edge of the medal, it says, “For outstanding contributions to the field of alcoholism…”

2006

Martha Baker

With respect and admiration for her lifetime dedication, volunteer work and philanthropic efforts to raise public awareness about the disease of alcohol use disorder. She courageously and successfully challenged the corporate community to contribute and to establish Employee Alcoholism Programs.

2006

Leadership To Keep Children Alcohol Free

For courageous and outstanding commitment to drawing public attention to the nation's problem of underage drinking, particularly among 9 to 15 year olds, and for making prevention and education a national priority.

2006

Scott Clark

He has given selflessly of his time, talents and resources in serving the field of alcohol use disorder. He has raised public awareness about this disease and has helped to reduce the stigma by getting out the message of help, hope and recovery. He never says, no. He is truly "out of this world."

2005

Derek Jeter and the Turn 2 Foundation, Inc.

For steadfast commitment and dedication to providing programs that motivate young people to choose healthy lifestyles and avoid the use and abuse of alcohol and drugs.

2005

Paul R. Levenson, J.D.

For his dedicated perseverance in advocating the precedent setting lawsuit, Smithers v. St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center. (This award was given at The Christopher D. Smithers Foundation's Annual Meeting 07/11/2006).

2004

Samuel B. Bacharach, Ph.D.

For steadfast commitment in establishing The Smithers Institute for Alcoholism-Related Workplace Studies at Cornell University and for creating a bridge between academic research and the labor unions.

2004

Lawrence Kudlow

A nationally recognized economist who courageously speaks out at all levels of the media raising public awareness about the disease of alcohol use disorder and drug dependence.

2004

J. Edward Hill, M.D.

For courageously leading the AMA to speak out about alcohol abuse among young people having the medical profession take a leading role in treatment, education and prevention of alcohol use disorder.

2003

Eric Clapton

For leadership in raising public awareness about addition and for carrying the message of hope and recovery throughout the world.

2003

Sheila Blume, M.D.

For dedication to alcohol use disorder research and treatment and leadership in raising public awareness about women and alcohol use disorder.

2003

Judy Collins

For using her many talents to create greater understanding of alcohol use disorder throughout the wold and for carrying the message of hope and recovery.

2002

Michael H. Beaubrun, M.D.

Pioneered and introduced alcohol use disorder treatment and education throughout the Caribbean where he devoted his life to creating awareness and understanding of the disease.

2002

LeClair Bissell, M.D.

For steadfast commitment to treatment, education, research and creating public awareness and understanding of the disease.

2002

Charles S. Lieber, M.D., MACP, World Renowned Pioneer

For dedication to research and education on alcohol and alcohol use disorder and their effects on the liver and nutrition.

2002

Max A. Schneider, M.D., FASAM

For leadership and dedication to treatment, education, prevention and creating public awareness to remove the stigma.

2002

Stanley Gitlow, M.D., Pioneer

For dedication, courageous leadership and unwavering commitment to treatment, education and creating public awareness and understanding of the disease.

2001

Elaine Stritch

For creating greater understanding and carrying the message of hope and recovery.

2001

Joseph Pursch, M.D.

For leadership and dedication to prevention, education, intervention and treatment.

2000

West Wing

For the Program's sensitive and accurate depiction of the disease of alcohol use disorder.

2000

Jason Robards

For courage and leadership in carrying the message of hope and the promise of recovery on a worldwide stage.

1999

George C. Steinbrenner, III

For creating awareness and understanding in the sports world and championing the concept of alcohol use disorder as a disease.

1998

Nicholas Pace, M.D.

For dedication to treatment, education, public information, and prevention.

1998

Al Lowenfel, M.D.

For dedication to research, education, and public information.

1997

Ernest P. Noble, M.D.

Pioneer in genetic research and courageous leadership for alcohol use disorder prevention and education.

1996

George McGovern

For courageous leadership in public information, education and prevention.

1995

Suzanne Somers

For courageous leadership in public education.

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