The Colorado School of Public Health (ColoradoSPH) proudly celebrated the recognition of Dr. Patricia “Patty” Gabow, MD, MACP, who received the prestigious Welch‑Rose Award for Distinction in Public Health at the 2026 Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) Annual Meeting on March 19, 2026.
Public health leaders from across the country joined ColoradoSPH leadership in honoring Dr. Gabow’s legacy as a physician, scientist, policy leader, and health system innovator. The Welch‑Rose Award, one of the highest distinctions in the field and bestowed by the ASPPH, recognizes a lifetime of transformational contributions to field of public health.
Honoring a Lifetime of Service
During her award presentation, ASPPH highlighted Dr. Gabow’s groundbreaking work in nephrology, including her leadership on the largest NIH Program Project Grant in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, which reshaped understanding of the disease’s genetic and clinical progression. Her more than 170 publications, books, and other scholarly writings were also highlighted and contributed to her selection for this prestigious honor.
Dr. Gabow also served for more than 20 years as President and CEO of Denver Health and Hospital Authority. Her tenure marked one of the most impactful eras in the institution’s 165-year history. Under her leadership, Denver Health delivered more than $4.7 billion in uncompensated care while becoming a national model for high‑quality, community‑centered, efficient health care. Her adoption of myriad management principles set new benchmarks and is now used by health systems nationwide.
Her national leadership includes roles with Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC), the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the National Governors’ Association Health Advisory Committee, and her current service as Board Chairperson of the Lown Institute.
A Moment of Pride for ColoradoSPH
The nomination of Dr. Gabow, submitted by Dean Cathy Bradley, PhD, MPA, and the Colorado School of Public Health, underscores the pride the institution takes in recognizing leaders whose vision and impact have strengthened Colorado communities. Celebrating the remarkable contributions of Dr. Gabow is a true honor for the school, as her work has strengthened the health and well-being of Coloradans over the course of decades.
Dean Bradley reflected on what the selection of Dr. Gabow represents for the school and for the public health profession:
“Patty’s leadership has left an indelible mark on the national public health community,” said Bradley. “Her commitment to innovation, access, and the well‑being of vulnerable populations reflects the values we aspire to uphold as a school. Celebrating her accomplishments with colleagues from across the country was a privilege and serves as reminder of how one leader’s vision can inspire countless people.”
Also representing ColoradoSPH at the event, Travis Leiker, assistant dean for external relations, shared his perspective on Dr. Gabow’s legacy and continued influence:
“Dr. Gabow’s steadfast advocacy for public institutions like Denver Health, and her ability to move policymakers and philanthropists to action, reflect the profound and lasting impact she has had on the field of public health,” said Leiker.
A Legacy That Continues to Inspire
Dr. Gabow has long been a champion of the Colorado School of Public Health, offering mentorship, delivering keynote addresses, supporting student initiatives, and helping elevate women leaders across the public health workforce.
Over the course of her distinguished career, Dr. Gabow has also been recognized with numerous national awards that underscore her influence as a physician, researcher, and health system innovator. Her honors include the National Academy of Medicine’s Gustav O. Lienhard Award, the American Medical Association’s Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Public Servant, the Association of American Medical Colleges’ David E. Rogers Award, and the Ohtli Award from the Mexican government. She was also inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame in 2004.
Dr. Gabow stands as an honorary alumna, a valued partner, an unwavering mentor, and a deeply cherished friend. ColoradoSPH congratulates Dr. Patty Gabow on this extraordinary honor and expresses its deep appreciation for her lifetime of leadership, scholarship, and service.
