“I am extremely honored and thankful for this award. The volunteer work I have done at ASH is a source of great pride. I see the impact on clinical practice and educational programs, and through the allocation of funds from the ASH Foundation.”
In 1998, ASH established the Exemplary Service Award to recognize individuals whose outstanding service, extending over a period of years, has significantly advanced the interests of the Society.
Judith Kleinerman, MD, former practicing hematologist at Steward Medical Group Specialists of Taunton, Massachusetts, began her service with ASH as a member of the Committee on Practice, providing critical input on policy issues related to hematology and the needs of practitioners.
As part of the ASH Choosing Wisely Task Force, Dr. Kleinerman helped develop evidence-based recommendations to prompt conversations between patients and clinicians about the necessity and potential harm of certain tests and procedures. This led to service on ASH’s Subcommittee on Stewardship and Systems-Based Hematology, where she helped develop materials and activities designed to encourage the stewardship of resources and enhance patient safety.
Dr. Kleinerman retired in 2018 but continues to serve ASH by lending her expertise and insightful feedback to the CME Accreditation Committee and the ASH Foundation Committee, as well as remaining actively engaged in the ASH Clinicians in Practice program and the ASH Grassroots Network.
“When I was around 9 years old, I received a gift of a small microscope,” Dr. Kleinerman said. “It did not take me long to realize that the most interesting thing to view was blood. I had no idea that one day I would be doing this almost daily as a part of my job. I am thankful that I had a calling and was able to pursue it.”
Fun Fact: My greatest joy is when I’m with my 31-year-old chestnut mare, De De. Although I am no longer able to ride her, I love walking her, grooming her, and just sitting and watching her.
