Creekmore Award honors Martorell

April 14, 2008
Creekmore Award honors Martorell

By Alma Freeman

Reynaldo Martorell, Robert W. Woodruff Professor of International Nutrition and chair of the Hubert Department of Global Health at the Rollins School of Public Health, was honored at the International Awards Dinner on March 31 with the 2008 Marion V. Creekmore Award for Internationalization.

The Creekmore Award, named for Emory’s first vice provost for international affairs, Marion Creekmore, was established in 2000 by Coca-Cola executive and Emory benefactor Claus M. Halle and is given each year to an Emory faculty member who excels in the advancement of the University’s commitment to internationalization.

Martorell’s research focuses on the fields of nutrition and human biology. He is recognized internationally for his groundbreaking longitudinal studies in maternal and child nutrition and for his research on micronutrient malnutrition.

“As an overwhelmingly respected leader in his field, Dr. Martorell has improved the lives of countless citizens of the developing world,” said Vice Provost for International Affairs Holli Semetko, chair of the award selection committee. “His voice in the struggle to fight malnutrition can be heard around the world.”

Martorell has led the Department of Global Health since 1996. During his tenure, the department has significantly expanded the size of its faculty and student body as well as its research base and academic programs. A prolific author, Martorell serves as a member of the Advisory Council of Emory’s Global Health Institute, the Institute for Developing Nations, and Emory’s International Affairs Council. Martorell is vice-chair of the Pan American Health and Education Foundation Leadership, a director of the International Nutrition Foundation, and is an adviser to UNICEF, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank.

“Dr. Martorell has done much to build Emory’s visibility on the world stage, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor,” said RSPH Dean James Curran. “In addition to his prolific research, writing, leadership, and service, Rey’s steadfast dedication to his family and colleagues is admired by all.”

Also honored at the International Awards Dinner was Emory Law alum David Tkeshelashvili, a native of the republic of Georgia and the State Minister for Regional Issues, with the Sheth Distinguished International Alumni Award.