Chris Van Gorder Receives Diogenes Award

The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) San Diego Chapter has honored Scripps Health President and CEO Chris Van Gorder, FACHE, with the 2007 Diogenes Award for his transparency and honesty in dealing with the public and the media.

The award was presented at San Diego’s PRSA chapter’s annual Bernays Awards dinner, which recognizes outstanding work in public relations, corporate communications and marketing. The Diogenes award, named after the ancient Greek philosopher who carried a lantern through the streets of Athens searching for an honest man – recognizes a San Diego newsmaker who has demonstrated a remarkable and commendable understanding of the need for candor when dealing with the public and the news media.

“Transparency in communication is essential, especially in the industry of health care, "said Van Gorder. “I am sincerely honored to receive this recognition from San Diego’s PRSA chapter.”

Board certified in healthcare management and an ACHE Fellow, Van Gorder received his master’s degree in public health and health services administration from the University of Southern California and his bachelor’s degree from California State University, Los Angeles. He completed the Program for Healthcare System Chief Executive Officers of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

ABOUT PRSA SAN DIEGO
Founded in 1959, PRSA San Diego is one of 109 chapters within the Public Relations Society of America, the largest organization in the world for public relations professionals. PRSA San Diego is a member of the national organization’s Western District, which includes nine other chapters: California Inland Empire, Colorado, Hawaii, Las Vegas Valley, Los Angeles, Orange County, Pike’s Peak, Southern Arizona (Tucson) and Valley of the Sun (Phoenix).

Contact: Jaime Szefc
Phone: 858-678-7483
Cell: 858-356-7471
szefc.jaime@scrippshealth.org