Michael Patete, MD, an otolaryngologist from Venice, has been recognized with the Award of Distinguished Service at the 2025 Florida Medical Association (FMA) Annual Meeting. Dr. Patete has worked in private practice for over three decades and is known for his advocacy on behalf of physicians and patients. He previously served as the FMA’s 144th President from 2020 to 2021 and has also led the FMA PAC, Sarasota County Medical Society, and its political action committee.
The Harold S. Strasser, MD Good Samaritan Award was presented to Diana Twiggs, MD, a family medicine physician based in Fernandina Beach. Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Dr. Twiggs has made multiple trips to Poland and Ukraine to deliver humanitarian aid and supplies. She also promotes volunteerism and fundraising efforts while maintaining communication with her congressman regarding funding issues. Dr. Twiggs is affiliated with Baptist Health Emergency Resources Group and is a Past President of the Florida Academy of Family Physicians.
Joshua Lenchus, DO, received the Gerald L. Schiebler, MD Advocate for Medical Students Award. Dr. Lenchus served as FMA’s 146th President from 2022 to 2023 and is currently Medical Director for Aetna’s Florida market in the southeast region. He previously held a leadership role at Jackson Memorial Hospital’s internal medicine program in Miami and is a Past President of the Florida Osteopathic Medicine Association.
Angeli Maun Akey, MD, was also honored at the meeting. Dr. Akey specializes in internal medicine as well as integrative and holistic medicine in Gainesville. She founded North Florida Integrative Medicine along with Ageless Medical Solutions and Palm Beach Institute of Preventive Medicine, and co-founded FIRRIMup Doctors. Dr. Akey is active on the conference circuit nationally and internationally as a speaker and co-edited “Fascia, Function, and Medical Applications,” which was nominated for a British Medical Association award in 2021.
Madeline Joseph, MD, who practices pediatrics and pediatric emergency medicine in Jacksonville, was among those recognized during the event.
