Congratulations to Dr. Linda Pérez-Laras on receiving the 2026 Dr. Yocasta Brugal Faculty Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activity Award on June 4, 2026. This award, given by the President of the San Juan Bautista School of Medicine, recognizes faculty who have made exceptional contributions and acknowledges their excellence in research, academic scholarship, mentorship, and leadership. As a young faculty member, Dr. Pérez-Laras has built a strong and productive research career focused on sexual violence, public health, and translational science. She has obtained funding as Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator, including NIH/NIGMS Alliance Pilot Project and UPR Post-Doctoral Clinical & Translational Research Award. Her research work spans forensic medicine, cardiovascular risk in sexually abused children, and community engagement, demonstrating both scientific rigor and societal relevance. In addition, Dr. Perez-Lara’s leadership roles in federal grant administration also highlight her excellence and ability to steward complex, multi-year projects that benefit the institution and the broader community.

During this recognition activity, Dr. Elizabeth Padilla Rivera, SJBSM Dean of Nursing, received the 2026 Dr. Yocasta Brugal Faculty Excellence in Academic and Institutional Leadership Award for her sustained commitment to advancing nursing education, scholarly inquiry, and transformative leadership in healthcare. Our congratulations to both academic leaders!