College of Medicine – Tucson’s Aldulaimi receives national honor

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Sommer Aldulaimi, MD, FAAFP, a professor and the co-director of Global Health Programs in the Office of Global and Border Health at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson, received the Pride in the Profession Award in June from the American Medical Association Foundation.

The foundation honored Aldulaimi for her work with underserved populations in the United States as part of the Excellence in Medicine Awards at its annual meeting in Chicago on June 6. 

Aldulaimi, who is also a co-director of the Refugee Health Program as well as the medical director of the Tucson Family Advocacy Program in the U of A College of Medicine – Tucson’s Department of Family and Community Medicine, called the recognition a “tremendous honor” that reminded her of why she went into medicine.

“I entered this field, and specifically family medicine, because I wanted to serve underserved communities and work alongside individuals and families who too often face barriers to care,” Aldulaimi said. “This work is also deeply meaningful to me because as the child of immigrants, I have seen firsthand both the opportunities and challenges that come with building a life in a new country. That experience shaped my commitment to caring for refugees, immigrants and other vulnerable populations whose resilience, strength and perseverance continue to inspire me every day.”

The foundation’s awards honor physicians and medical advocates who exemplify the highest values of the profession: volunteerism, community engagement, leadership and service to underserved populations. 

“This recognition gave me the opportunity to reflect on the impact that compassionate care, advocacy and community partnerships can have on people's lives,” Aldulaimi said. “It reminded me that the work we do matters — not only in caring for individual patients but also in helping build healthier, more equitable communities. I am deeply grateful to the patients, colleagues, learners and community partners who have been part of this journey and who continue to motivate and challenge me to do more.”

Award recipients each receive a $2,500 grant honorarium that goes to a nonprofit of their choice. Aldulaimi said the International Rescue Committee Tucson, a nonprofit dedicated to working with people in the United States and abroad affected by humanitarian crises, would receive the money. She called the group a valued partner in efforts to help displaced individuals.

“Together we have collaborated on refugee health screenings, care coordination, health promotion initiatives and other projects aimed at improving the health and well-being of refugee families in Southern Arizona,” Aldulaimi said. “Through their dedication, compassion and advocacy, the IRC helps individuals and families navigate the challenges of resettlement and build successful new lives in our community. Supporting their work is a meaningful way to recognize the impact of our partnership and the important role they play in helping refugee families thrive.”