Dr. Mathis Becker, USF Director of Professional Relations, was honored by the Hillsborough County Medical Association Tuesday night as the HCMA Outstanding Physician of the Year.

       The award was presented to a surprised Dr. Becker at the HCMA’s general membership dinner meeting.

Dr. Becker, center, at Tuesday night’s HCMA dinner meeting.

      Dr. Becker, who also is USF Health administrative liaison to the vice dean for clinical affairs, is now the vice president of the HCMA and will become the president-elect in May. He’s also past president of the Florida Medical Association and the Broward County Medical Association.

      The HCMA award recognizes an HCMA member “who goes above and beyond their role as a leader.”

      The HCMA also gave a scholarship Tuesday night to third-year medical student Chad Rudnick. Rudnick received the Cherry, Bekaert & Holland Scholarship. The $1,500 award was matched by the HCMA Foundation.

     “His actions remind us of our professional obligations to serve,” said HCMA President Dr. Humberto Coto in presenting the award. “He has truly established a personal tradition of excellence.”

Chad Rudnick, far right, takes his turn as moderator at the HCMA students’ panel.

     Rudnick already was on hand at the HCMA’s dinner Tuesday for another duty – serving as moderator for the HCMA-medical student forum, “Students Say the Darndest Things.”