ASGE and ASGE Foundation hold Crystal Awards Dinner as part of Digestive Disease Week

OAK BROOK, Ill. – MAY 31, 2009 – The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) will honor important contributions to the field of endoscopy during the fifth annual ASGE Crystal Awards on Sunday, May 31. Hosted by ASGE and the ASGE Foundation, this year's event will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Navy Pier in Chicago.

Held in conjunction with Digestive Disease Week (DDW®), the ASGE Crystal Awards symbolize the finest in leadership, research and scientific pursuit. The event will recognize the 2009 award and grant recipients who have shared their expertise and strengthened the specialty and the Society. Newly designated ASGE Fellows will also be recognized at this event. Proceeds from the event will benefit the ASGE Foundation in support of GI endoscopy-related research, physician education and training, and public outreach initiatives.

The event will feature live music, dinner and presentations to honorees by ASGE President, John L. Petrini, MD, FASGE, ASGE Foundation Chair, Francis Tedesco, MD, FASGE, various ASGE leaders and Master of Ceremonies, ASGE Past President and Foundation Trustee, David Carr-Locke, MD, FASGE.

To make a tax-deductible contribution to the ASGE Foundation, stop by the ASGE Store or ASGE Learning Center at DDW® or visit www.asge.org or call (630) 573-0600 or (800) 343-ASGE (2743)

Award Recipients

Rudolf V. Schindler Award

Christopher J. Gostout, MD, FASGE, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
ASGE's highest honor, this award is given to a member whose accomplishments in endoscopic research, teaching and/or service to ASGE exemplifies the standards and traditions of Rudolf V. Schindler, MD, founder of the American Gastroscopic Club, the forerunner of ASGE.

Distinguished Service Award
George Triadafilopoulos, MD, DSc, FASGE, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
This award is granted to an individual who has made long-term contributions to GI endoscopy in the areas of equipment research and development, as well as an individual who has been a strong supporter of the educational and research mission of the society.

Distinguished Educator Award
Anthony N. Kalloo, MD, FASGE, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
Physician as educator is the focus of this award, recognizing one or more doctors' contributions to the education of fellows through endoscopy seminars, participation in national postgraduate courses and published scholarly reviews or educational materials, including videos.