James C. Leonard, MD Gold-Headed Cane Award Fund
This fund supports the James C. Leonard, MD Gold-Headed Cane Award Fund. The award shall be given to graduating medical students per practice in medical education in recognition of dedication to the health and welfare of patients.
The Leonard Gold-Headed Cane Award was established at Carle Illinois to honor Dr. James C. Leonard, President and CEO of The Carle Foundation, for his role as a physician, leader, innovator, and a founder of Carle Illinois. It is considered the top honor for a graduating medical student. The Gold-Headed Cane is kept in a display box in the Dean's suite with a plaque that list the name of the recipient each year. The cane is used at graduation for photo opportunities with the finalists and the winner ultimately getting to hold it when announced at the graduation ceremony.