Awards

During the IPPS Fall Symposium on Friday, October 23, 2026, IPPS will present the Richard E. Preston Distinguished Service Award.

The Iowa Psychiatric Physicians Society (IPPS) invites nominations to recognize individuals who provide exceptional care and support to individuals with mental illness and their families. This award honors those who exemplify excellence, compassion, and commitment within Iowa’s mental health community.

Richard E. Preston Distinguished Service Award

Established in 1995, this award honors Richard E. Preston, M.D., a Des Moines psychiatrist and longtime advocate. It recognizes community members who demonstrate outstanding advocacy for effective and humane treatment of individuals with mental illness.

Eligibility

Presented biennially to individuals who have demonstrated significant advocacy and contributions to mental health care.

Application Requirements

  • IPPS member submission
  • Nominee contact information
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Statement (max 750 words) outlining contributions, such as:
    • Excellence in mental health services
    • Advocacy and legislative impact
    • Community collaboration and public education
    • Contributions across healthcare, legal, or civic systems


Previous Award Recipients:

  • Claudine Harris – 1996
  • Betty Grundberg – 1996
  • Noel Brown – 1997
  • Margaret Stout – 1997
  • Judy Dierenfield – 1999
  • Betsy Hradek, ARNP – 2002
  • Mark Smith – 2007
  • Erika Anderson – 2010
  • Nancy Hale, RN – 2015
  • Tony Leys – 2016
  • Karen Loihl – 2019
  • Nancee S. Blum, MSW, LISW – 2022
  • Lorrie Young, LISW – 2024


Nomination deadline:
September 15, 2026 (5:00 PM CT)
Submit nomination
Questions? Contact Nominating Committee Chair Dr. Jerome Greenfield, jfgreenfield@mchsi.com

Award will be presented October 23, 2026 • Hyatt Regency Coralville

Events

IPPS Fall Symposium

Friday, October 23, 2026
All Day
Hyatt Regency Coralville 300 E 9th St, Coralville, IA 52241

Physician Day on the Hill

Hosted by the Iowa Medical Society, this event gives IPPS members the opportunity to meet and greet with Statehouse representatives.
February, 2027
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