Bulletin of Dental Education Article

EJI Excellence in Medicine has announced the 2025 recipients of its prestigious awards, recognizing outstanding health care leaders across New Jersey. Widely regarded as the highest honors in the state’s medical community, the EJI Excellence in Medicine Awards™ celebrate excellence, innovation and dedication in health care.

Among the 2025 EJI Excellence in Medicine honorees includes Kim E. Fenesy, D.M.D., Vice Dean of Rutgers School of Dental Medicine (RSDM). Dr. Fenesy was awarded the Outstanding Medical Educator Award.

In 1986, Dr. Fenesy, a former medical illustrator, earned her dental degree from RSDM. As a postgraduate, she specialized in periodontics before transitioning into academia. As Vice Dean at RSDM, she led student support and interprofessional education (IPE) initiatives. Her leadership in IPE shaped national standards and secured a $2.5M HRSA grant to enhance collaborative health care education. Recognized for her contributions, she continues to impact dental education and patient care.

The 2025 awards will be presented at the EJI Excellence in Medicine Awards™ ceremony on May 7, 2025, at Park Château Estate and Gardens in East Brunswick, NJ. For more information, visit EJIAwards.org.

All proceeds from the evening support scholarships for future health care leaders in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and physician assistant programs in New Jersey. Paul J. Hirsch, M.D., Chairman of the EJI Excellence in Medicine Fund, said, “As health care leaders, we have a duty to inspire the next generation—through example, mentorship and a commitment to excellence. The EJI Excellence in Medicine Awards™ celebrate those who lead by example while investing in the future of health care in New Jersey through annual scholarships. The 2025 awards honor those who inspire progress and shape a healthier tomorrow.”

Patricia A. Costante, Founding Member of the EJI Excellence in Medicine Fund, said, “Health care thrives on dedication, innovation and the power of inspiration. By recognizing outstanding leaders and supporting young professionals, the EJI Excellence in Medicine Awards™ ensure that the legacy of compassionate care and groundbreaking progress continues for generations to come.”

About EJI Excellence in Medicine

The mission of EJI Excellence in Medicine is to recognize and encourage excellence in medical care and healthcare for the citizens of New Jersey, including patient care, teaching and education, research, management, leadership, and civic engagement. The awards began in 1939 and were enhanced and expanded in 2003. Subsequently, the scholarship program was added, providing scholarships to students from New Jersey medical, dental, pharmacy, and physician assistant schools every year. The EJI Excellence in Medicine Awards™ are awarded annually to honor those extraordinary physicians and leaders whose dedication to medical care, education, research, and public service has significantly impacted the delivery of health care in New Jersey and around the nation.

Media contact: Ali Giardina, Account Manager, Second Melody, ali@secondmelody.com.

Courtesy of EJI Excellence in Medicine