The Michigan chapter of the American College of Physicians honored Wayne State University School of Medicine physician-educator Diane Levine, M.D. ’82, FACP, with its Lifetime Achievement Award at an awards ceremony held virtually Oct. 15 during the organization’s annual scientific meeting. 

The award honors a member who has demonstrated a lifetime commitment to the American College of Physicians. Recipients are either fellows or masters and are universally looked upon as chapter leaders, advisors and mentors.

“This was completely unexpected, and I am so honored to be recognized by the Michigan chapter of the American College of Physicians. The ACP is an amazing organization that provides opportunities for early learners all the way to advanced practitioners. I have been involved for decades with the Michigan chapter and attribute my success in part to the wonderful opportunities they provided to me,” Dr. Levine said.

She is vice chair of Education for the Department of Internal Medicine, and a practicing physician and professor in its Division of Hospital Medicine. Dr. Levine directs the Internal Medicine Clerkship and the fourth-year Health Systems Elective and Transition to Residency courses at the school of medicine.

She has more than 35 years of experience in medical education, and has received more than 75 awards for her clinical care, mentorship and teaching. Her expertise includes curriculum development and integration. She has developed and published educational innovations designed to improve patient safety and quality of care, and reduce health disparities in the elderly, women and LGBTQI+ populations. Her work has been cited more than 400 times.

“My aim in life has always been to make my parents proud and to pay it forward. Much of my efforts professionally are related to mentoring and helping the next generation of physicians,” she added. “Being recognized for my contributions and these efforts is incredible. It makes me want to rededicate myself to my craft and to my students and trainees – to continue to improve how we educate and how we deliver care.”

In 2010, she received the chapter’s Laureate Award, which honors fellows and masters of the ACP who have demonstrated by their example and conduct an abiding commitment to excellence in medical care, education or research and in service to their community, their chapter and the college.

The ACP is the largest medical-specialty society in the world, with 161,000 members around the globe.