The CPASS Foundation is proud to announce that Dr. Mildred MG Olivier, nationally renowned ophthalmologist, healthcare equity advocate, and CAHMCP alumna, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the John Bradley STEM Award for Inspirational Leadership (JBSAIL). The award will be formally presented during the 2025 Pathways to Health Equity Breakfast Symposium on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the University of Chicago.
Honoring a Legacy of Leadership and Impact
Established in honor of Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program™ (CAHMCP) co-founder John Bradley, the JBSAIL Award recognizes exceptional individuals whose inspirational leadership has helped attract, encourage, and guide promising students—particularly those historically underrepresented in STEMM—into successful health and science careers.
Dr. Olivier embodies that mission in both her personal journey and professional legacy. A graduate of Loyola University Chicago and Chicago Medical School, she is a long-serving champion for equity in medical education, a tireless mentor to young professionals, and a respected voice in national and international efforts to eliminate blindness in vulnerable populations. She currently serves as Associate Dean at Ponce Health Sciences University School of Medicine – St. Louis Campus, where she leads efforts to build a new generation of culturally responsive physicians.
“Receiving this award from CPASS, and having it presented by John Bradley himself, is profoundly meaningful to me,” said Dr. Olivier. “Through my connection to CAHMCP, Mr. Bradley introduced me to the Chicago Medical School—an introduction that changed my life and allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. To now be recognized as part of a legacy that continues to open doors for others is both humbling and deeply moving.”
A Personal and Professional Recognition
Dr. Eric E. Whitaker, Board Chairman of the CPASS Foundation, spoke both as a colleague and longtime friend of Dr. Olivier:
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Dr. Olivier for many years. She is the rare kind of leader who moves with both vision and compassion. Her impact stretches from the exam room to the lecture hall, from policy tables to student mentorship circles. It is only fitting that we recognize her with the John Bradley Award—because she is, in every sense, a builder of pathways.”
Join Us in Celebration
Dr. Olivier will be honored during a special award presentation at the CPASS Pathways to Health Equity Breakfast Symposium on October 4, 2025, at the University of Chicago. This free event will feature a keynote address by Dr. Walter Conwell, a panel discussion moderated by Dr. William McDade (ACGME), and a gathering of thought leaders, educators, policy makers, students, alumni, and community champions committed to advancing access and excellence across the health workforce.
To learn more about the symposium and join the waitlist, visit https://events.cpassfoundation.org/.