Shriners Children's Northern California Receives Corporate Champion for Education Award from 'Sacramento Business Journal' at 2025 Ceremony

eight adults in front of a media screen smiling together

Kenny Pawlek (fourth from left), Shriners Children's Northern California administrator, stands with leadership, Board of Governors members, and Abraham Cicchetti, who nominated Shriners Children's Northern California for the award. Image courtesy of the Sacramento Business Journal. 

Shriners Children’s Northern California has been honored with the Corporate Champion for Education Award at the Sacramento Business Journal’s 2025 Corporate Citizenship Awards. This prestigious event celebrates organizations and individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in the Sacramento community through volunteerism, philanthropy and education.

A Commitment to Educating Future Healthcare Leaders

At Shriners Children’s Northern California, education is a cornerstone of our mission. We are proud to support the next generation of healthcare professionals through initiatives such as:

  • The Perry Initiative – A national nonprofit inspiring high school and medical students to pursue careers in orthopedics and engineering
  • PediOrtho WEST – A hands-on surgical training course led by pediatric orthopedic surgeons from California’s top children’s hospitals, offering PGY2 and PGY3 residents immersive learning in pediatric orthopedic techniques
  • Clinical training programs – Hosting residents, fellows, nursing students, radiology technology students and other trainees across multiple specialties

With partnerships with more than 35 major educational affiliates, Shriners Children’s fosters an academic environment that extends beyond our hospital walls. Our medical teams also contribute to global education efforts, ensuring more children worldwide receive specialized care closer to home.

A Team Effort for a Brighter Future

“This award reflects the dedication of our entire team in shaping the future of pediatric healthcare,” said Kenny Pawlek, administrator of Shriners Children’s Northern California. “By training the next generation of physicians, nurses and specialists, we ensure that children everywhere will continue to receive the most amazing care, anywhere.”

The Sacramento Business Journal’s Corporate Citizenship Awards highlight the vital role businesses play in strengthening communities. Shriners Children’s Northern California is honored to be recognized for our commitment to education, research and compassionate care.

an adult man in a suit standing in front of a podium that reads "Sacramento Business Journal Corporate Citizenship 2025 Shriners Children's"

Kenny Pawlek accepts the award on behalf of the hospital. Image courtesy of the Sacramento Business Journal. 

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