Distinguished Awards Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the AASLD Distinguished Awards?
Each year, AASLD honors individuals whose sustained contributions have advanced hepatology and strengthened the liver health community.
Recipients are formally recognized at TLM, the premier global convening in hepatology, where their achievements are celebrated before peers and leaders across the field.
The Distinguished Awards include:
- Distinguished Achievement Award
- Distinguished Clinician Educator/Mentor Award
- Distinguished Service Award
- Distinguished Advocacy Award
Why do the Distinguished Awards matter?
The Distinguished Awards highlight leaders whose work shapes the future of liver health. By recognizing their sustained impact at TLM, AASLD elevates excellence, inspires the next generation, and reinforces its commitment to advancing science, education, advocacy, and patient care worldwide.
Who is eligible?
Current nominees and sitting members of the AASLD Governing Board, as well as previous Distinguished Award recipients, are not eligible to receive an award. Please click here [link to past awardees page] for a list of past recipients across all award categories.
New for 2026, patients may submit a nomination for the Distinguished Advocacy Award in collaboration with an AASLD member.
Who can submit a nomination?
All AASLD members are encouraged to submit nominations. Members may nominate any qualified individuals, including those who are not AASLD members.
Peer and self-nominations are welcome.
Can I nominate myself?
Yes. AASLD encourages self-nominations to ensure broad and equitable consideration of leaders whose impact deserves recognition.
Who selects the recipients?
The AASLD Distinguished Awards Committee reviews all nominations and selects award recipients, with final approval from the AASLD Governing Board.
What is required to submit a nomination?
The online nomination process is designed to be streamlined and accessible. Nominators will provide:
- Basic information about the nominee.
- At least one letter of recommendation.
- An abridged CV.
Do recipients need to have been active in AASLD for many years?
Not necessarily. While some awards recognize sustained service to AASLD, others honor scientific achievement, mentorship, clinical excellence, or advocacy that advances hepatology more broadly.
Are there specific characteristics the Distinguished Awards Committee looks for in a nominee?
AASLD seeks nominees whose sustained contributions have meaningfully advanced hepatology and strengthened the liver health community.
Consistent with AASLD’s recognition that the study and treatment of liver disease encompasses healthcare professionals from many disciplines and backgrounds, we encourage a broad and inclusive pool of nominees that reflects the richness and diversity of our community — across roles, institutions, and areas of expertise.
Nominees should demonstrate lasting impact, leadership, and a commitment to advancing liver science, education, advocacy, or patient care.
In addition to the award, what do recipients receive?
In recognition of this high honor, Distinguished Award recipients receive:
- Recognition at the Awards and Honors Gala during TLM, ensuring recipients are celebrated before peers and leaders across the field.
- Public recognition on the AASLD website and TLM promotion.
- $1,500 honorarium.
- Complimentary TLM registration, including two nights of hotel accommodations and economy round-trip airfare.
When will I be notified about the status of a nomination?
Nominators and selected recipients will be notified by mid-May.
What should I do if I have questions or need support?
For additional information about the Distinguished Awards, please contact governance@aasld.org.