Dr. Alfred Berg, professor and associate chair of the Department of Family Medicine, has been named acting chair. Dr. Ronald Schneeweiss, professor of family medicine, stepped down from his administrative position as chair of the department July 1. The department was nationally recognized several times for its leadership in teaching and research in family medicine during the eight years Schneeweiss was chair. His administration also oversaw affiliations with Alaska’s and Montana’s first residency programs of any type. In addition, the department strengthened its dedication to preparing physicians for rural and underserved urban practices. Schneeweiss will stay at the UW to continue in his teaching, research and patient care roles.

Dr. Michael Copass has received the 1998 YWCA Isabel Colman Pierce Award for Excellence in Community Service. Copass, UW professor of medicine, is director of Emergency Services at Harborview, medical director of Medic One, and medical director of Airlift Northwest. The award, established 17 years ago by the YWCA of Seattle/King County/Snohomish County, honors the memory of a leader for many cultural and human-service organizations in the community. Copass is being recognized “for inspiring our community through your contributions to the health care system, your compassion for people, your advocacy of non-violence and your dedication to improving the quality of life in our area.” He will be honored by the YWCA Oct. 20 at the Four Seasons Olympic Hotel. ¶