Upstate Medical University has selected eight faculty members as Gold Standard Award winners.

The awards recognize faculty for “work exemplifying the missions of Upstate, with particular emphasis on professionalism, work ethic and character.”

The awards are presented annually by the Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development during the Celebration of the Faculty. This year’s ceremony was held April 23.

“These individuals honored with our Gold Standard Award represent the very best of what it means to serve our academic and clinical communities,” said Ann S. Botash, MD, senior associate dean for faculty affairs and faculty development. “They are role models not only for our students but for colleagues across the institution. The university has been immeasurably strengthened by their dedication, integrity, and leadership. I am proud to call them colleagues and celebrate their association with Upstate.”

Winners are selected from nominations from faculty peers.

This year’s Gold Standard Award winners are:

Stephen Blakely, MD, Urology

Joshua Bonville, MD, Pediatrics

Melanie Comito, MD, Pediatrics

Tyler Greenfield, DO, Emergency Medicine

Shahram Izadyar, MD, Neurology

Carlos Lopez, MD, Anesthesiology

Caitlin Nye, MSN, RN, Nursing

Patrick Smith, DDS, Surgery-Dental

The event also featured recognition of new and emeriti faculty.

A list of previous Gold Standard award winners can be found here.

Caption: 2025 Gold Standard winners are, from left, Shahram Izadyar, MD, Neurology; Melanie Comito, MD, Pediatrics; Patrick Smith, DDS, Surgery-Dental; Tyler Greenfield, DO, Emergency Medicine; Stephen Blakely, MD, Urology; and Joshua Bonville, Pediatrics. Missing from the photo are Carlos Lopez, MD, Anesthesiology; and Caitlin Nye, MSN, Nursing.