Todd Florin, MD, MSCE, Receives the 2026 Thomas A. Hazinski Distinguished Service Award
HOUSTON, March 10, 2026 – The Society for Pediatric Research® (SPR) is pleased to announce that Todd Florin, MD, MSCE, has been named the 2026 Thomas A. Hazinski Distinguished Service Award recipient. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Florin’s outstanding service to SPR.
Dr. Florin is a Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. He is the Associate Division Chief for Academic Affairs & Research for the Division of Emergency Medicine at Lurie’s, and Scientific Director of Research Development and Co-Director of the Center for Pediatric Acute & Critical Care Research & Innovation at Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute.
Dr. Florin has been an engaged member since 2015, contributing to a wide range of leadership roles. Most recently, he served on the Executive Council as the Strategy and Operations Officer (2021-2025), where he played a central role in shaping and advancing the Society’s new strategic plan. He currently serves on the Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) Board of Directors, further extending his leadership in the broader pediatric research community.
“Dr. Florin has given so much of himself to SPR, and he has done so with humility, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to advancing our mission,” said SPR Past President Brenda Poindexter, MD, MS. “In his role as Strategy and Operations Officer, he led the development and implementation of our new strategic plan—work that required not only vision, but also the ability to bring people together around a shared purpose. His leadership has left a lasting mark on the Society, and I can think of no one more deserving of the Thomas A. Hazinski Award.”
Throughout his tenure with SPR, Dr. Florin has demonstrated a sustained commitment to service, including roles on the Council, Nominating Committee, and the Finance Committee. His broad involvement across SPR reflects both organizational knowledge and consistent focus on strengthening the Society for its members. “Over many years and in multiple roles, Todd took a new idea and made it a reality, always focused on the expansion of the Society’s impact on its members. I am grateful for his impact!” said SPR Membership Director, Roberta Keller, MD.
The Thomas A. Hazinski Distinguished Service Award honors an individual who has provided exceptional, long-term service to SPR. The award will be presented at the 2026 Pediatric Academic Societies (PAS) Meeting, SPR Eat. Greet. Celebrate. Awards & New Member Reception on Saturday, April 25, at 12:30 pm ET.
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About the Society for Pediatric Research®
The Society for Pediatric Research® (SPR) encourages and supports pediatric research endeavors by cultivating a diverse network of child health researchers through collaboration, community, mentorship, and advocacy. Collaboration among SPR members creates meaningful progress for the future of children’s health. For more information, please visit www.societyforpediatricresearch.org, and follow us on LinkedIn, Bluesky, and X.
Media Contact:
Waverly Alcure
Marketing & Communications Manager
Society for Pediatric Research®
(346) 258-6257
waverly.alcure@societyforpediatricresearch.org
