At the CTSI Translational Science Symposium and Poster Session on Sept. 17, 2024, the John Song Award was presented to Sydney Viel, Regulatory Affairs Program Manager at CTSI.
For the past eight years, Sydney has had a tremendous impact on CTSI through her leadership, expertise, and dedication to advancing ethical research. She leads the CTSI regulatory program, which includes monitoring, regulatory specialists, ClinicalTrials.gov support, and FDA submission support.
“It’s such an honor to be nominated by others in CTSI for this award,” she said. “I’m so proud to work for a group so dedicated to ethics and innovation for our research participants.”
Sydney has played a critical role in developing and supporting institutional tools, shaping best practices, and driving improvements that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of research across the University. She is a recognized subject matter expert who is frequently sought after for her insights.
Sydney exemplifies collaboration, courage, and resilience, consistently bringing teams together, supporting colleagues, and finding solutions to complex challenges. Her integrity, innovative approach, and commitment to excellence make her a true role model and a valuable asset to CTSI.
The John Song Award was established in memory of Dr. John Song, who passed away in March 2019. John worked on behalf of CTSI for seven years as a member of the CTSI-Ed Internal Advisory Board and as a mentor to summer program scholars.
Among his many qualities, John was devoted to promoting ethical clinical research for the underprivileged. He was also an outstanding teacher of bioethics topics and mentor of junior trainees. John was a leader on the CTSI-Ed Advisory board and an enthusiastic participant in career development activities, such as CTSI Scholar reviews.
John’s calm, quiet wisdom and positive attitude, backed by the very standards he set for himself and others, serve as a model for others.
To honor his legacy, the John Song Award was established after his passing but, due to the pandemic, was not presented until last year. The award is now given annually to a CTSI staff, faculty member, or contributor who:
- made substantive, sustained, and outstanding contributions to CTSI over a period of at least three years;
- exemplified dedication to CTSI, with a demonstrated ability to build relationships, show courage, and exhibit resiliency;
- performed in an outstanding capacity, with an emphasis on innovation and efficiency;
- and, demonstrated strong ethics and concern for colleagues and others.
The recipient is selected from nominations submitted by CTSI staff and faculty.
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