$100,000 Gift Establishes Award Fund Recognizing Women Leaders in Imaging Informatics

Leesburg, Virginia March 3, 2026 — In a field where women have historically been underrepresented, the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) celebrates the extraordinary legacy of Dr. Ruth Dayhoff, a visionary pioneer in medical informatics with a gift established in 2020. SIIM honors her unwavering commitment to transforming imaging informatics into a discipline where diverse voices don’t just have a seat at the table—they help set the agenda. 

Dr. Ruth Dayhoff was a trailblazer who shaped the foundation of modern healthcare information technology. During the formative years of medical informatics, she made groundbreaking contributions to clinical decision support systems and medical data standards that continue to influence the field today. Beyond her technical innovations, Dr. Dayhoff was a passionate advocate for women in technology and medicine, mentoring countless professionals and working tirelessly to create pathways for future generations. In honor of Dr. Dayhoff’s legacy, SIIM received a $100,000 restricted gift to the SIIMfund from her husband, Vincent Brannigan. This prestigious honor recognizes exceptional contributions by women in imaging informatics who exemplify her pioneering spirit, professional excellence, and commitment to advancing opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in the field.  

The Journal of Imaging Informatics in Medicine (JIIM) honors Dr. Ruth Dayhoff with a special editorial featured in the February 2026 JIIM issue highlighting her influence in imaging informatics as well as that of the current six (6) recipients. Emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive environments in the field, the article highlights that industry thrives when we foster diversity of thought, experience, and perspective, and that not just opening the door for women and underrepresented voices is required but actively building a culture where everyone belongs and is empowered to lead.

Marc Kohli, MD, FSIIM, Chair, Philanthropy Committee recognized this lasting legacy, “The Dr. Ruth Dayhoff Award for the Advancement of Women in Medical Imaging Informatics reflects our recognition that diversity in imaging informatics isn’t just an aspiration—it’s a strategic imperative. This award is both a celebration and a call to action. Dr. Dayhoff’s career demonstrated what’s possible when barriers are removed, and now we must ensure that momentum continues. SIIM is committed to tracking our progress and holding ourselves accountable to creating lasting change.” 

Nominations for the 2026 Dr. Ruth Dayhoff Award are now being accepted. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their materials by April 14, 2026 to be considered for this prestigious honor. The Dr. Ruth Dayhoff Award will be presented at SIIM26 during the Awards Ceremony on June 11, 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA where the 2026 recipient will be formally recognized for her contributions to advancing women’s leadership in imaging informatics.  

About the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM)

SIIM is the leading healthcare professional organization for those interested in the current and future use of informatics in medical imaging. The Society’s mission is to advance medical imaging informatics across the Enterprise through education, research, and innovation in a multi-disciplinary community. SIIM brings together clinicians, researchers, engineers, developers, IT imaging professionals, and industry partners, spanning specialties, including radiology, pathology, cardiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, and more planned for the future. The SIIMfund, directed by the Philanthropy Committee, supports SIIM’s initiatives and activities that advance imaging informatics. Donations are accepted throughout the year.