The Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee will honor University of Kansas Chancellor Dr. Doug Girod with its Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award at its annual Human Relations Event.
JCRB|AJC’s Human Relations Award honors the legacy of Henry W. Bloch, whose leadership and integrity set a benchmark for community activism.
“Much like the namesake of the Henry W. Bloch Human Relations Award, Doug exemplifies principled leadership rooted in service, collaboration and a steadfast commitment to the greater good,” a JCRB|AJC statement about the award read. “A visionary leader and compassionate healer, Doug leads with humility, purpose and a deep commitment to lifting others. His rare blend of vision and compassion has elevated entire sectors, inspired countless others and strengthened the Kansas City region.”
Dr. Girod is KU’s 18th chancellor, and during his tenure, KU has reached record-breaking enrollment, earned the highest national designation for its Cancer Center and increased research funding for nine consecutive years.
Prior to becoming chancellor in 2017, Dr. Girod served as executive vice chancellor at KU Medical Center, having begun his KU journey in 1994 as a faculty member in otolaryngology. His medical and academic leadership has been recognized nationally, including as president of the American Head and Neck Society, vice chair of the American Association of Universities and chair of the Big 12 Conference.
In addition to his work with KU, Dr. Girod is a U.S. Navy veteran and former head-and-neck surgeon who lead international medical missions to countries such as Uganda and Guatemala. Locally, he serves on the boards of the Civic Council, MRI Global, and both the Lawrence and Greater Kansas City Chambers of Commerce. He is also a leader in the regional KC Rising initiative to promote long-term economic prosperity.
This year’s Human Relations Event is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 23. It is chaired by Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace; Howard Cohen; Marc B. Hahn, D.O.; Leigh and Tyler Nottberg; Bob Page; and Alejandro Quiroga, M.D., M.B.A.