McLaren Flint Graduate Medical Education, a robust program annually graduating nearly 40 resident and fellow physicians, recognized its first Dr. Barbara Wolf Humanitarian Award recipient during its June commencement ceremony.
The inaugural award was presented to family medicine physician Dr. Simranpal Deol. Sadly having passed away in a traffic accident in November 2024, the award was accepted on Dr. Deol’s behalf by colleagues he worked closest with.
Established in the memory and spirit of Dr. Barbara Wolf, the award will be given annually to a graduating resident or fellow who works to promote the welfare of others through actions that advocate for those in need, emphasize the importance of interpersonal connectedness, and conducts their work as a provider with compassion and kindness.
Dr. Deol’s deep commitment to his community was a trait noticed and admired by his peers. It was this commitment that led him to organize an annual holiday gift drive to ensure all children in Flint feel valued and seen. This charitable action and spirit will continue on as the Dr. Simran Deol Holiday Gift Drive.
“Dr. Deol was known for his unwavering commitment to patient care, deep empathy, and ability to bring comfort and healing,” his peers shared. “He demonstrated a great devotion to patient-centered care, community health, and mentorship. Throughout his residency, colleagues remember him as an inspiring team member, a great physician, an advocate for the underserved, and an amazing listener.”
A clinical health psychologist, Dr. Wolf was a pillar in the McLaren community for nearly 30 years. She was a passionate advocate for the advancement of medical training, physician wellness, and a trusted advisor and counselor to countless residents and fellows across all specialties and McLaren training hospitals. Tragically, she died in an act of violence in late 2024 as she was attempting to help someone in need.
“It would be an incredible task to begin quantifying the impact Dr. Barbara Wolf had on our organization and on those of us who worked closely with her and had the honor to call her our friend,” said Dr. Justin Klamerus, McLaren Health Care Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer. “Barbara brought heart and passion to her advocacy initiatives, and she cared deeply. She had a way of making everyone feel valued, and while her presence will be fiercely missed, we are delighted that this recognition will help share her essence.”
Along with the establishment of the annual award, the lasting impact of Dr. Wolf will be further memorialized through the re-dedication of the McLaren Flint health psychology residency program, naming the program she established and drove to grow in her honor.