Two valued members of our GLFHC family will be receiving awards this spring.
Caren Jacobson, MD, will receive the Community Health Center Clinician of the Year Award at the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers’ 2025 Awards Gala on June 13 at the Westin Copley Plaza.
Caren’s unwavering commitment to patient care has been the cornerstone of her remarkable career at GLFHC since 1990. With an impressive track record of delivering hundreds of babies, tending to thousands of hospital patients, and compassionately treating tens of thousands in her clinic, Caren has left an indelible mark on our institution.
In addition to her clinical achievements, Caren has distinguished herself as an exceptional teacher in our Lawrence Family Medicine Residency program, earning the respect and admiration of her peers as a trusted colleague and friend. Her enduring dedication is evident as she continues to round in the hospital, deliver babies, maintain a full clinic schedule, and contribute to the education of future healthcare professionals.
After over three decades at GLFHC and serving as the medical director of the Park Street, Lawrence location, Caren demonstrated visionary leadership by stepping back from her directorial role. Recognizing the pressing need for increased patient access in the community, she selflessly redirected her focus to address this crucial issue, showcasing her enduring passion for making a positive impact.
Caren’s love for her work is palpable in her day-to-day activities, underscoring her genuine commitment to the well-being of her patients and the broader community. On top of her impressive skills and stellar resume, she is fun, witty, always up for a challenge, and beloved across the organization.
Luz Rodriguez, CSS Social Service Supervisor, will be honored at the YWCA’s 2025 Tribute to Women luncheon on May 15 at the Andover Country Club.
Luz Rodriguez has been a dedicated member of GLFHC for the past 15 years, making a lasting impact on our patients and community. She began her journey as a Community Health Worker, where she worked closely with individuals and families addressing social determinants of health. In 2015, she transitioned into the role of Social Service Supervisor, where she continues to provide support to staff and patients. She often acts in a dual role, wearing both her supervisor and CHW hats. Balancing multiple responsibilities often leads to competing demands and a heavier workload, making it difficult to prioritize tasks effectively and manage time. However, Luz’s knowledge, experience, and ability to navigate these challenges allows her to make a meaningful impact in both capacities.
For over eight years, Luz has been the cheerful driving force behind GLFHC’s monthly Mobile Market, a resource providing fresh, nutritious food to the Lawrence community. Thanks to her commitment and leadership, the Mobile Market supports more than 400 families each month, many of whom face food insecurity. Since the market’s inception, amid rain, snow, arctic ice, summer heat, and a memorable pandemic, it has only been canceled twice, and Luz herself has missed only one market – a true testament to her dedication and passion. She works tirelessly behind the scenes, coordinating logistics, volunteers, and community partnerships to ensure the market operates seamlessly and families receive the food they need.
Luz’s contributions to GLFHC are best summed up by those who nominated her – they composed the following acrostic:
L- Loyal; dependable and committed to our organization and patients
U- Understanding; compassionate, empathetic, and considerate of the populations we serve
Z- Zealous; passionate, enthusiastic, and dedicated to helping out the community
GLFHC’ Caren Jacobson, MD (center), has been named Clinician of the Year by the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers. She will receive the honor in June 2025.
GLFHC’ Luz Rodriguez, CSS Social Service Supervisor, will be honored at the YWCA’s 2025 Tribute to Women luncheon on May 15 at Andover Country Club.