2026 Recipients
Spring 2026
Congratulations to the following recipients of our Fall 2025 CARE Awards!
Staff
Danny Counts, MS, Director, HCOM Academic Facilities
Danny is praised as the unofficial “dad” of HCOM, known for his unwavering support and genuine care for students across the college.
He consistently goes above and beyond to make HCOM a welcoming and comfortable environment, whether by addressing classroom needs, improving student spaces, or simply offering encouragement before exams.
Students describe him as someone who knows every corner of HCOM and the people within it, always making time to help however he can.
For many students, especially those far from home, Danny has helped make HCOM feel like family.
Bonnie Hay, MSEd, Academic Program Administrator
Bonnie is praised for her unwavering dedication, compassion, and advocacy for students throughout their clinical education.
As an Academic Program Administrator, she has consistently gone above and beyond to support students through the challenges of third year, serving as a dependable source of guidance, encouragement, and problem-solving.
Students describe her as deeply caring, always accessible, and fiercely committed to their success, whether coordinating rotations, addressing unexpected challenges, or offering personal support during difficult times.
Her lasting impact is reflected in the admiration of both current students and former graduates, many of whom credit Bonnie with helping shape their experience at HCOM and their growth as future physicians.
Faculty
Prince Adu, PhD, Assistant Professor of Instruction, Department of Social Medicine
Dr. Adu is praised for his exceptional teaching, mentorship, and dedication to student well-being. Through his work in social medicine and biostatistics, he has a remarkable ability to make complex concepts approachable and engaging, fostering confidence and deeper understanding among students.
Beyond academics, Dr. Adu intentionally creates space for conversations about balance, burnout, and maintaining perspective throughout medical training, bringing a sense of humanity and connection into the classroom.
Students also recognize his extraordinary commitment to their success through additional after-hours board review sessions, where he encourages questions, discussion, and continued growth.
His accessibility, compassion, and holistic approach to education have made a lasting impact on students and their development as future physicians.
Joe Bianco, PhD, Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Social Medicine
Dr. Bianco is praised for the exceptional mentorship and care he brings to Behind the White Coat each year.
As Associate Director of the Storytelling Institute, he works closely with student storytellers through multiple drafts and rehearsals, helping them shape meaningful and deeply personal narratives.
His guidance creates a space where students can reflect on who they are beyond academics and clinical training, strengthening empathy, resilience, and connection within the HCOM community.
Through his leadership, Behind the White Coat has become a transformative experience that reminds students, faculty, and community members alike of the humanity at the heart of medicine.