Baylor College of Medicine
The “Shoestring” Award
Gold
This entry is on Dr. Paul Klotman’s Weekly Videos, which began March 2000 with the COVID pandemic. The first video was intended to be a one-time address to provide reassurance and to thank those who served on the front lines.
That was Episode 1. On April 1, 2024, episode 210 was distributed through You Tube, as were all the others. The series continues today and this entry specifically concerns the contest period of April 2024 through July 2025. The importance of trusted information during a time when misinformation is common cannot be overstated.
During that time there was almost always a weekly update on COVID numbers, but other viruses soon came into play, including Avian Flu, Measles, West Nile Virus, and many others. Each report was filled with charts and graphics and a heavy dose of humor and occasional sarcasm. Lily, his long-haired Dachshund, played a supporting role.
The response has been more than ever expected, with people writing in each week, sending questions and suggesting topics.
What was the most impactful part of your entry?
The most impactful part is the response from the internal College audience, the public, donors, alumni and national experts in the field of infectious diseases. Dr. Klotman was able to put complex scientific information in layman’s terms, always with humor and a reporting style that showcases his personality.
What is one thing you learned from your entry/experience?
We let Dr. Klotman be himself. No second takes, no teleprompter. He puts together his own notes and if he strays from them from time to time, so be it.
Contact: Lori Williams
loriw@bcm.edu