USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
The Robert G. Fenley Writing Awards: Solicited Articles
Bronze
When the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine announced the hiring of internationally renowned virologist Dr. Robert Gallo in June 2024, it marked a significant milestone in the college’s evolution as one of the leading public research universities in the United States. Given such lofty and widespread acclaim, we wanted to learn more about Dr. Gallo the person – to humanize him in a way that would allow readers to understand what motivated him to follow a path into research and virology in the first place and provide a backstory for the work that has vaulted him to the top of his field.
What was the most impactful part of your entry?
Dr. Robert Gallo, the subject of our story, has been in the public eye for five decades. We set out to share new insights about Dr. Gallo's life with our readers -- a challenge we met when he shared stories about his childhood and a family tragedy that had a profound affect on his drive to help patients.
What challenge did you overcome?
No matter how many times you think a story may have been told, a creative writer who is a determined reporter can find fresh and important insights to share.
Contact:
Lisa Smith
lisagreene@usf.edu