Dr. Shah has been an SPR member since 2013 and has played a pivotal role in the Society’s Advocacy Committee since 2015. His dedication to pediatric research and child health policy has helped shape SPR’s advocacy initiatives, ensuring the voices of pediatric researchers are heard at the state and federal levels. Currently, he co-chairs the national American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Section on Neonatal-Advocacy Committee and is an Executive Committee Member representing New York State.

“With unwavering commitment to advocacy and SPR, Dr. Shah has had a lasting impact on the pediatric research community,” said SPR President Brenda Poindexter, MD, MS. “His leadership within the Advocacy Committee and Pediatric Policy Council has strengthened SPR’s mission. We are thrilled to recognize his contributions with this well-deserved honor.”

Dr. Shah’s nominators emphasized his passion for advocacy and his significant influence on child health. “Dr. Shah was a tireless and innovative leader of the SPR Advocacy Committee during his tenure as Chair. He brought SPR members to Capitol Hill to advocate for pediatric research, provided commentary publication opportunities in Pediatric Research for SPR members, and educated the organization about important child health policy issues,” said Past SPR Advocacy Committee Co-Chair Lois Lee MD, MPH.

“His tireless efforts have made an important impact on pediatric research, ensuring that children’s needs are always at the forefront of research discussions. Dr. Shah is truly deserving of this recognition for his exceptional leadership and advocacy on behalf of pediatric researchers and children everywhere.” said SPR Advocacy Committee Co-Chair Joyce Javier, MD, MPH, MS.

This Thomas A. Hazinski Distinguished Service Award honors a special individual who has provided exceptional service to the SPR. The award will be presented during Eat. Greet. Celebrate: SPR Awards & New Members Reception at the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) 2025 Meeting on Sunday, April 27, 2025.