Dr. Gurpal S. Bhuller Award

Formed in 2006, the Southside Health Education Foundation (SHEF) is a 501(c)3 charitable organization serving Petersburg and the surrounding region. SHEF’s mission is to advance educational opportunities for students pursuing a career in the healthcare industry through the receipt and distribution of educational scholarships and funds to be used for tuition and other related educational expenses. By supporting the region in this way, SHEF plays a critical role in improving the lives of residents through access to education; improving the overall health and quality of life for the region by expanding the number of healthcare employees; and improving the economic vitality and future of the region by developing a skilled workforce.

Purpose:  To recognize and honor Dr. Gurpal S. Bhuller, founding board member and first Chair of the Board of Directors of Southside Health Education Foundation.

Awarded to:

  • A current or past SHEF scholarship recipient who, like Dr. Bhuller, has demonstrated success in his or her pursuit of training in a health profession.
  • A current or past donor or volunteer who, like Dr. Bhuller, has committed his or her time, talent, or treasure towards the achievement of SHEF’s mission.

Time Period of Award:  Presented to two individuals annually.

Nature of Award:  A large plaque to which are affixed successive name plates identifying annual recipients.

Past Awardees: 

Dr. Gurpal S. Bhuller, 2011

Dr. Clementine Polock, 2012

Heather Takacs, 2012

Don Anderson, 2013

Sara Warmolts, 2013

Dr. Karen Faison, 2014

Jessica Borgia, 2014   

Thomas and Ellen Lee, 2015

Suzan Marshall, 2015

Kiana Kimber, RN, 2015