The Official MED Gala 2025: Celebrating 10 Years of Impact, Mentorship & Medicine in Columbus, GA

While the stars decompress from the legendary Met Gala in New York, Physicians Working Together (PWT) is preparing for its own signature affair — the inaugural MED Gala, celebrating 10 years of service to the medical community. The event will take place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Columbus Convention & Trade Center.

The evening will be a powerful gathering of purpose, recognition, and vision — headlined by Dr. Contessa Metcalfe, board-certified physician and nationally recognized star of Married to Medicine, and will spotlight several of Columbus’ most distinguished physicians for their leadership and impact in healthcare:

• Dr. Kimberly F. Jackson, Founder of Physicians Working Together, Inc

• Dr. Bantwal Suresh Baliga, Director, East Alabama Endocrinology

• Dr. Contessa Metcalfe, Family Physician, Bravo's Married To Medicine

• Jason Hoover, Radiologist and CEO of Bridgeway Diagnostics

• Dr. Nombulelo Mangaliso Virgil, Pediatrician

  
  

Rooted in a mission to elevate mentorship and healthcare access in rural and underserved communities, this unforgettable evening includes a gourmet dinner, live music by The Charlie Ray Band, and a premier Blue Carpet Media Experience hosted by @DJ Chip of iHeartMedia.

Hosted by Felicia L. Hamilton, the evening includes an exclusive VIP Lounge where guests can meet Dr. Contessa and connect with change makers advancing the future of medicine.

“The MED Gala is about recognizing excellence while building a bridge for future healthcare leaders,” said Dr. Kimberly F. Jackson, Physicians Working Together, CEO.

Thank you to our partners, JPL Family Medicine, iHeart Media, Inspire and Empower With Dr. J, Art2Lectual Creative Consulting, DJ Chip, Bridgeway Diagnostics, Visionaire Visuals, and GLO Green Designs.

A limited number of sponsorship, advertising, and vendor opportunities are still available.

Sponsor | Advertise | Become a Vendor | Attend as a Guest

Guests are encouraged to book their stay at our partner hotel using the group rate.

Hotel Indigo

Tips to Maximize Heart Health this Month (and every other month)

Heart-related diseases have been the global leading cause of death since 1950. It is so out of control that this year alone, one out of five individuals WILL die from heart-related disease.

It is quite scary to think that it takes one human life every 34 seconds. But here’s the thing: with the right steps, heart diseases are preventable.

Since it’s already February, it means that it’s time for heart health awareness month; and I find it imperative to talk to you about heart health and how you could avoid being a part of the statistics of heart disease.

Join me today as I talk you through this along with valuable but often overlooked information you need in maximizing your heart health.

Why you need to check this episode: 

• Know the most common risk factors associated with heart disease and how to avoid them;

• Learn the importance of having regular checkups, having a healthy diet, and having a good amount of physical activities in relation to your heart’s health; and

• Discover the direct relationship between your emotional stress and your heart health.

“I’m going to keep stressing its importance [heart health awareness] until heart disease isn’t the number one leading cause of death in the country. It is just what it is.”

– Dr. Berry Pierre

Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Growth, Community, and Commitment

This past year has brought remarkable achievements and lasting memories. As the founder of Physicians Working Together (PWT) and National Physicians Week, I am proud to reflect on how far we've come. Since 2016, we’ve dedicated National Physicians Week from March 25 to 31 to honor doctors nationwide, expanding the tradition beyond Doctors Day on March 30. This expansion was a labor of love, a commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of my colleagues across the country.

This year’s theme, #MedicineandMorein2024, celebrated the resilience, diverse talents, and unity within our medical community. Together, we are shaping a future that values both medicine and the well-being of those who practice it.

Celebrating Talent and Creativity

During National Physicians Week, we brought together medical students and physicians from across the country to celebrate their journeys. Our Medical Student Scholarship Contest highlighted incredible talents, with submissions ranging from music to creative arts. These inspiring performances are now featured in our Medical Student Scholarship Contest Playlist, shining a light on the passion and artistry within the medical community.

Supporting the Next Generation of Doctors

We’re passionate about supporting the next generation of doctors. Since launching our scholarship program in 2019, we’ve proudly awarded scholarships to nine medical students who embody the promise, dedication, and compassion that the future of medicine needs. This year, we celebrated three inspiring winners, bringing hope and opportunity to those embarking on their medical journey.

Looking Ahead: The 10th Anniversary MED Gala

We’re beyond excited for June 2025, when we’ll gather in Columbus, GA, for the 10th Anniversary MED (Mentorship, Empowerment, and Dedication) Gala! This year’s event is more than a celebration—it’s a tribute to the physicians who give so much, the students who dream of making a difference, and the supporters who believe in our mission.

Join us as we 'party with a purpose,' building mentorship connections, recognizing dedicated physicians, and raising funds to drive future healthcare initiatives.

Mentorship | Empowerment | Dedication.

These are the cornerstones of our mission. Together, we're fostering connections that bridge generations, inspiring future leaders, and honoring the pioneers who paved the way.

Mentorship. Empowerment. Dedication.

This Is Your Chance to Make a Difference

This is your chance to be part of something truly special. By attending the gala, you'll be directly supporting life-changing scholarships and programs.

Click here to learn about our partnership opportunities.

Closing Out 2024

As we reflect on 2024, we see how far we’ve come and how much there is left to achieve. This year was another step in ensuring a future filled with skilled, compassionate doctors. But we can’t do it alone.

Your support matters. Whether it’s through a tax-deductible donation or joining us at the MED Gala, you are an essential part of this mission. Let’s continue to shape the future of medicine, together. Thank you!

PWT is a proud 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donations are tax-deductible and directly support our mission to empower future physicians and strengthen the medical community.

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