The Distinguished APP award recognizes accomplishments, outstanding innovation, and/or exemplary leadership among North Carolina Rheumatology Advanced Practice Practioners.

Award Criteria:

To be considered for this award, nominees should meet the following criteria

1. He/she/they must meet all of the following:

• • NP or PA living in North Carolina
  • Current or past active patient care within the state of North Carolina
  • Has not received the award within the past 3 years
  • APP must be in good professional standing

2. He/she/they should have the following characteristics:

• • Nominees should demonstrate meaningful contributions to rheumatology practice, patient care, professional development, or advocacy at the state, regional, or national level.

3. Nominees should have demonstrated excellence in one or more of the following areas:

• • Clinical Excellence
  • Leadership
  • Research and scholarship
  • Innovation and creativity
  • Educational and mentorship
  • Advocacy and service

Nomination Deadline

Nominations are collected each year until January 31, 2027.

Please Note: an effective nomination should include a one-page letter describing the APP  accomplishments along with a CV if available.

Nominees will be reviewed by the North Carolina Rheumatology Association, and a single recipient will be selected during the Fall board meeting.  Each board member has one vote, and the winning recipient will be selected from the majority of votes. In case of a tie, the President of the NCRA will select the winning individual from the two highest vote getters. Nominees not selected will continue to be considered for the next 3 years from date of submission.