Dr. Anita Palepu is the Head of the Department of Medicine at the University of British Columbia. Her outstanding contributions to research on the utilization of health services and the health status of vulnerable populations have had an immeasurable impact on improving health outcomes of marginalized patients living in urban settings. Her renowned dedication to teaching, mentoring, justice, equity and diversity is exemplified in every aspect of her scholarship, clinical care, service to the academic community, to the departments she leads, and to the patients whose lives she touches.