2026 Kayla Bell Citizen Award Winner
The Pulmonary Center is happy to announce Kostas Kontodimas as the winner of the 2026 Kayla Bell Pulmonary Center Citizenship Award!
Kostas Kontodimas
PhD Student
The Kayla Bell Pulmonary Center Citizenship Award was established to celebrate and commemorate Kayla’s time at the Pulmonary Center, and to encourage others to follow in her footsteps. It is awarded annually to a member of the Pulmonary Center who best embodies Kayla’s kind and helpful nature.
Kostas Kontodimas, a PhD student in Dr. Bob Varelas’s lab, was selected as this year’s recipient of the award for his exceptional contributions to our community. His kindness and eagerness to engage the community embodies the spirit of Kayla Bell, in whose honor the award was established. Kostas has been a valuable resource for everyone in the Center, gladly providing help or guidance. His positivity and willingness to lend a hand are impactful and appreciated!
The Kayla Bell Pulmonary Center Citizenship Award was presented to Kostas Kontodimas during the 2026 Kayla Bell Memorial Lecture on April 3. Some comments from nominators include:
“He would always ask how he could help and was always willing to lend a hand.”
“Kostas exemplifies kindness, generosity, and commitment to community.”
“I consider Kostas a model of motivation, resilience, and growth for all trainees.”
“He is also an engaged and thoughtful participant in our RIP seminar series. His willingness to speak up and engage constructively reflects both intellectual curiosity and leadership.”
“His approachable and supportive manner makes him a valued colleague and collaborator.”
“Whenever additional work needs to be completed in the lab, he is always the first to volunteer…”
“He has played a key role in training new trainees, always willing to share his extensive technical expertise with patience and enthusiasm.”
“Kostas has also taken initiative in organizing and participating in social events that bring together multiple groups within the Pulmonary Center…”
“He is eager to learn new methods, intellectually curious, and highly motivated to understand scientific processes beyond the scope of his formal responsibilities…”
Congratulations to Kostas on this well-deserved honor!