October 15, 2026
We are excited to share that three members of the Midwest D-CFAR have been recognized by the Department of Medicine (DOM) at Washington University School of Medicine. The DOM awards celebrate faculty and staff whose dedication and service strengthen the department and the broader WashU Medicine community.
Jacaranda van Rheenen, PhD
Jacaranda van Rheenen, PhD, Associate Director of the Midwest D-CFAR, received the Team Science Award for her integral efforts across interdisciplinary teams to accelerate research gains. Collaboration is at the heart of HIV research, and this award recognizes the work it takes to bring different disciplines together toward shared progress.
When asked what this recognition means to her, Dr. van Rheenen stated, “What an honor, and what a wonderful surprise, to receive the Team Science Award. An award like this is never earned alone, and I share it with everyone who makes team science possible here.”
She continued, “Many years ago, my PhD mentor, Dr. Rene Boot, told me he saw me as a connector of people. Over the years I’ve come to understand what he meant, but I’ve also learned that connections only matter because of the people on both sides of them. The real joy is watching colleagues who might never have met find each other, discover a shared question, and build something together, both scientifically and personally. That is what the Midwest D-CFAR is all about. Our investigators bring the ideas and the drive; our job is to help them find the resources and the collaborators to move their work forward. I’m grateful to our team, who make that support possible every day, and to the investigators who trust us to help them grow.”
Jennifer Klenke
Jennifer Klenke, Finance Director of the Midwest D-CFAR, received the Leadership Award for her significant impact through vision, innovation, and inspiring others. Her work has helped move our community forward and has encouraged those around her to do the same.
Jennifer shared that this award “is a meaningful recognition of the collective efforts of the teams and colleagues I have had the privilege to work with. Effective leadership is about bringing people together around a shared purpose, navigating challenges with resilience, and creating an environment where others can succeed. I am honored by this recognition and am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many talented individuals every day.”
Julia López, PhD, MPH, LCSW
Julia López, PhD, MPH, LCSW, Midwest D-CFAR member and Investigator Pilot Awardee, received the Community Builder Award for her significant effort to improve the quality of life for members of the community. This recognition reflects her commitment to the people and partnerships that make our work meaningful.
Reflecting on the accomplishment, Dr. López shared, “I am humbled and honored to receive this award. Much of my work centers on helping people feel comfortable discussing what matters most, including their sexual and mental health, and ensuring our immigrant patients and families feel welcome and cared for. None of this happens alone, and I am so grateful to the community partners and colleagues who have been part of it with me. This award truly belongs to all of us.”
The awards will be celebrated at the Department of Medicine's Inaugural Awards Ceremony, hosted by the DOM Well-Being Council, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026. All members of the department are encouraged to attend.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. van Rheenen, Jennifer, and Dr. López on this well-deserved recognition. We're proud to count them among the Midwest D-CFAR community.
Learn more about the DOM Awards and view the full list of awardees on the Department of Medicine website.
Written by Kate Gershwin.