The Service to America Medals are one of the most under-recognized but most important awards in America. The “Sammies,” as they are fondly known, recognize excellence in the federal workforce and inspire others to realize their talents in public service. We happen to have a special interest in one of the 26 finalists for the award this year. The FDA Artificial Pancreas Team, led by Dr. Courtney Lias and Dr. Stayce Beck, was instrumental in approving the first hybrid closed-loop artificial pancreas system in the U.S. This product will change the lives of people with diabetes, and the FDA team worked tirelessly and selflessly to make it happen. The group streamlined the cumbersome approval process by creating clear standards and ensuring an open and productive dialogue between regulators and industry representatives. Everyone moved with a clear goal in mind: to make this technology available, to people who need it, now.

For those of us who are not part of the Sammies selection committee, we can still participate, as anyone with a Facebook account has the chance to vote for Dr. Lias, Dr. Beck, and the FDA team! The winner of the People’s Choice Award will be recognized alongside the seven committee-selected Sammie recipients at the 16^th annual Sammies gala on September 27. You can vote once per day until September 15 for as many nominees as you like, so be sure to spread the word about the incredible finalists and let your voice – and your vote – be heard as part of the People’s Choice Award.

Vote here - the only requirement to participate in the poll is an active Facebook account.

Emma Ryan contributed to this piece.