​Michigan Family Physician of the Year

2025 MI Family Physician of the YearThe Michigan Family Physician of the Year award is presented to a physician who exemplifies the tradition and contributions of the family physician to the health of Michigan residents.

Click here to learn more about Dr. Mary Marshall.

Message from Senator Ruth A. Johnson

Eligibility Criteria

  • Nominee must be an active MAFP member in good standing; previously nominated physicians who were not selected are eligible for reconsideration (re-nomination required)
  • Nominee must be a practicing family physician
  • Nominee must have a minimum of 10 years post-residency experience in Michigan
  • MAFP members, colleagues, hospital administrators, family medicine residency programs, family medicine departments, patients, and community members are invited to submit nominations
  • Required Electronic Attachments:
    • Two letters of support from colleagues, patients, or community partners are required. Support letters should focus on how the nominee meets the selection criteria.
    • Current Curriculum Vitae

Selection Criteria

  • Provides patients with compassionate, comprehensive and caring family medicine on a continuing basis.
  • Actively contributes to the community's well-being through meaningful involvement in local affairs and activities.
  • Serves as a credible role model professionally and personally to their community, fellow health professionals, residents and medical students.
  • Stands out among colleagues.
  • Supports equitable and evidence-based medicine for all Michiganders.

How to Submit a Nomination

  1. Confirm eligibility and secure required electronic attachments.
  2. Complete the online nomination form by March 1.

Past Award Winners

2025: Mary Marshall, MD, RN, FAAFP

2024: David Walsworth, MD, FAAFP

2023: Raymond Rion, MD

2022: Theodore Tangalos, MD 

2021: Pamela Rockwell, DO, FAAFP

2020: Lynn Gray, MD, MPH, FAAFP** 

2019: James Applegate, MD, FAAFP

2018: E. Chris Bush, MD, FAAFP

2017: Christopher Pogliano, MD, FAAFP

2016: Scott Yaekle, MD

2015: Wasim Rathur, MD

2014: Mary Rupp, MD

2013: Zahid Sheikh, MD

2012: Stefani A. Hudson, MD

2011: Donald Fitch, MD

2009: Mitch Karey, MD

2008: James Hubbard, MD

2007: Douglas Colberg, MD, FAAFP**

2006: Louis Constan, MD, FAAFP

2005: Steve Pollens, MD

2003: Michael Szymanski, MD

2002: Michael Grossman, MD

2001: Peter Thoms, MD, FAAFP

2000: Jerry Walden, MD, FAAFP

1999: BJ Woodley, MD

1998: Loretta Leja, MD

1997: Samuel Dismond, Jr, MD, FAAFP**

1996: William Smith, MD

1995: Lloyd Appell, MD

1994: John Picone, DO

1993: Ralph Cram, MD, FAAFP

1992: Louis Sanford

1991: Robert Paxton, MD, FAAFP

1990: L Edmond (Ted) Eary, Jr, MD, FAAFP

**Deceased