On October 20, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine celebrated Dean’s Honors Day 2026, an annual ceremony recognizing faculty for their achievements and excellence in clinical care, education, research, mentorship, and leadership. In the ballroom at the Garden City Hotel, more than 80 faculty were recognized with recent promotions and special awards for distinguished work.

Gladys M. Ayala, MD, MPH, dean of NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, gave the opening remarks. “The honors being recognized this evening reflect excellence in teaching, innovation in research, leadership in healthcare, and unwavering dedication to our patients, learners, colleagues, and community,” she said. “Collectively, your accomplishments define who we are as a medical school and what we aspire to become.”

“NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine was built around a different idea of medical education: our accelerated three-year program, our focus on primary care, and our commitment to serving our local communities,” said Alec C. Kimmelman, MD, PhD, dean of NYU Grossman School of Medicine and CEO of NYU Langone Health, in his remarks. “The people we honor tonight reflect that same spirit of innovation. Their accomplishments go well beyond individual recognition. They strengthen teams. They shape students. They advance discovery. And most importantly, they improve care for patients.”

Dean Ayala was joined by Steven E. Carsons, MD, vice dean of NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine and chief of rheumatology at NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island; Bruce W. Polsky, MD, associate dean of faculty and chair of the Department of Medicine at NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine; and Joan F. Cangiarella, MD, executive vice president and vice dean for education, faculty, and academic affairs in recognizing faculty members on their promotions. Additionally, five special honors were awarded: the Dean’s Excellence Award, Distinguished Clinician, Distinguished Educator, Distinguished Scientist, and Distinguished Faculty Mentor.

Dean’s Excellence Award

Joseph J. Greco, MD, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Anesthesiology, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine; Executive Vice President and Chief of Hospital Operations, NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island

“Dr. Greco assumed leadership of the hospital in 2019 and guided it through the Covid-19 pandemic—one of the most challenging periods in the hospital’s 125-year history,” said Dean Ayala. “He has been far more than just a hospital leader; he has been a trusted partner, adviser, and champion of academic medicine on Long Island.”

Distinguished Educator

Asif Noor, MD, Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, and Clerkship Director of Pediatrics, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine; Chief, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island

“For more than a decade, Dr. Noor has devoted himself to the education and mentorship of medical students, residents, fellows, and junior faculty, helping to shape not only their medical knowledge and clinical skills but also their professional values and commitment to patient-centered care,” said Dean Ayala.

Distinguished Faculty Mentor

Jeannine Nonaillada, PhD, Professor, Department of Medicine; Professor, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; and Associate Dean of Faculty Development and Mentoring, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine

“As director of the Faculty Scholars Program, Dr. Nonaillada has guided countless faculty members through the challenges of academic growth, mentoring them in teaching methods and curriculum development and supporting their achievement of scholarly publication, academic promotion, and educational leadership roles,” said Dean Ayala.

Distinguished Clinician

Naveed N. Masani, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine; Medical Director of Inpatient and Outpatient Dialysis, NYU Langone Hospital—Suffolk; Director, Chronic Dialysis Unit, and Medical Director, Acute/Inpatient Dialysis Unit, NYU Langone Hospital—Long Island

“While Dr. Masani’s accomplishments and numerous awards speak for themselves, they tell only part of the story,” said Dean Ayala. “What truly distinguishes him is the example he sets every day for those around him. He is not only an exceptional clinician, but also a role model, mentor, teacher, and trusted colleague.”

Distinguished Scientist

Qing Miao, PhD, Professor, Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine

“Throughout his career, Dr. Miao has exemplified the qualities that define a distinguished scientist: intellectual curiosity, scientific rigor, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge for the benefit of patients,” said Dean Ayala. “Beyond his scientific contributions, he has played a vital role in cultivating a culture of inquiry and innovation within our institution. He has served as a mentor, collaborator, and role model to students, trainees, and faculty colleagues, inspiring the next generation of physician-scientists and researchers.”