Dear Colleagues,
The North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP) is pleased to announce the presentation of the Samuel L. Katz, M.D. Excellence in Immunization Award during the 2026 NC DHHS Vaccines for Children Conference, scheduled March 4 – 6, 2026, at the Koury Conference Center in Greensboro, NC.
This award recognizes outstanding individuals or organizations that have implemented innovative strategies to enhance immunization coverage among children, adolescents, and adults.
The award will be presented during the luncheon session on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The awardee (or designated representative) will receive waived registration fees and accommodation for two at the conference center on March 4th and 5th, 2026.
We invite you to submit nominations for individuals and agencies that exemplify excellence in the field of immunization. To be considered, nomination narratives must be received by Friday, October 31, 2025. Submit completed nomination packets via the Samuel L. Katz, M.D. Excellence in Immunization Survey.
Narrative Instructions: Provide a justification document of 1 to 3 pages, double-spaced, supporting the nomination. Nominees may be individuals, agencies, or organizations and will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Description/Justification (20 points)
- Background on the immunization issues addressed.
- Major purpose of the agency, organization, initiative, or program.
- Target audience affected.
- Innovation (30 points)
- Explanation of what makes the nominee or initiative innovative.
- Description of the uniqueness that exemplifies excellence in immunization activities.
- Effectiveness (20 points)
- Overview of how the initiative met its intended goals.
- Evidence of effectiveness in addressing the stated immunization issues.
- Focus on Underserved Populations or Health Disparities (20 points)
- Discussion of how the nominee uses health equity to address health disparities.
- Description of support for traditionally marginalized communities.
- Replication (10 points)
- Explanation of how the nominee’s activities can be replicated in other immunization programs.
- Identification of possible obstacles to replication.
Sample Materials: Submission of relevant program materials, such as brochures, posters, videos, and articles, is encouraged. Note that these materials will not be returned.
We look forward to receiving your nominations and recognizing a deserving individual or program. Together, we can continue to advance our mission of identifying and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases in North Carolina.
For questions or further information, please contact Brandon Rector at 919.218.8932 or brandon.rector@dhhs.nc.gov.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the health and safety of North Carolinians.
In health,
NC Department of Health and Human Services