2019 Distinguished Alumni Awards

Arts & Sciences honored six alumni and friends for their achievements, service, and commitment to the liberal arts on Thursday, April 25, 2019

Meet the 2019 Recipients

Ralph Gonzales, AB ’86

Ralph Gonzales, MD, is associate dean for clinical innovation at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine, and chief innovation officer for UCSF Health. As a researcher, clinician, educator and innovator for over 20 years, Ralph’s collective work has significantly improved the quality of care and treatment for patients.  His significant research has played a leading role in national and global efforts in improving antibiotic prescribing.

 

Sydney Smith Hicks, MA ’71, PhD ’75

Sydney Smith Hicks is CEO of SSHICKS Advisors, a strategy, operations and investments consulting firm.  She is a distinguished economist, recognized business leader, and successful entrepreneur with more than 40 years of transformational management in academia, banking and the technology software industry.  Sydney was the first female at Washington University to earn a doctorate in economics.

 

William Siedhoff, BS ’68, MSW ’73

Bill Siedhoff served as the director of the Department of Human Services for the City of St. Louis from 2001 until his retirement in 2014. In his role, Bill managed five divisions including Homeless Services, Office on the Disabled, Area Agency on Aging, Veterans Services and Youth and Family.  As a tireless advocate and driven leader, Bill has been recognized many times throughout the community for his commitment to serving others.

 

Kimberly Templeton, AB ‘84

Kim Templeton, MD, is professor of orthopaedic  surgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City. As the first McCann Professor of Women in Medicine and Science in the United States, Kim is a role model for aspiring female physicians and a proponent and advocate for women mentoring women. She is a recognized leader in raising awareness in racial, ethnic and gender differences in healthcare.

 

Phillandas Thompson, AB ‘95

Phil Thompson is a corporate leader with extensive legal and business experience in pharmaceutical law, international trade and finance. He is the senior vice president and general counsel at Avadel Pharmaceuticals in Dublin, Ireland, and Venissieux, France, where he oversees the legal, compliance, corporate governance and human resources departments. Phil is also serves on the boards of several community and civic organizations.

 

Barbara Schaps Thomas, AB ‘76

Barbara Schaps Thomas is the retired senior vice president and chief financial officer for HBO Sports. In her role, Barbara was responsible for all sports financial/accounting operations, hiring talent, assuring technical streaming fluidity and negotiating major boxing promoter contracts. Currently, Barbara is an award-winning actress, appearing on stage, TV and in film. Barbara has been a member of the Washington University Board of Trustees since 1994 and has served on the Audit, Development, Educational Policy, Nominating & Governance and Undergraduate Life Committees.