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Dr. Westgard receives the
2003 Professor Alvin Dubin Award for Distinguished Contributions to the Discipline and Practice of Clinical Biochemistry from the NACB

From the NACB News & Views Newsletter, June 2003:

NCAB Alvin Dubin Award for Distinguished Contributions to the Discipline and Practice of Clinical Biochemistry. Sponsored by Abbott Laboratories, Diagnostic Division, Abbott Park, IL.

James O. Westgard, Ph.D., FACB: Dr. Westgard received his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin and has remained at this institution throughout his career. He currently is a Professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, the Director of Quality Management Services, and Co-Director of the Graduate Certificate in Laboratory Quality Management.

Dr. Westgard's research interests include statistical quality control, performance validation of measurement procedures, modeling and simulation of testing processes, and computer programs for analytical quality management. It is in these specific areas that he has made significant contributions to the field of clinical biochemistry. His extensive work led to the multi-rule control procedure, often called the "Westgard Rules", which have advanced QC practical in virtually every clinical laboratory. More recently his book, Six Sigma Quality Design and Control, has introduced this new concept of quality management in the field of laboratory medicine. This is just one of multiple books and educational products that he has written on the subject of quality control.

Dr. Westgard has been invited to present his concepts around the globe. His presentations and teaching activities continually contribute to excellence in the practice of clinical biochemistry.

Comments from Dr. Westgard:

It's a great honor to receive the Alvin Dubin Award from the NACB. I'm particularly pleased because this award recognizes the teaching activities that are so important for making improvements in laboratory practices. I want to thank the NACB, especially Dr. Tom Annesley and the Awards Committee, Dr. Vijay Kambli for the nomination, and Dr. Robert Burnett, Dr. Roger Calam, and Dr. David Koch for their letters of support. Many other people have a share in this award because of their help and support throughout my career. I have learned the importance of teaching from the many people who have been my teachers. [See "Personal reflections on being a teacher" for more of Dr. Westgard's thoughts about the importance of teachers and teaching.]