2019 Distinguished Service Award

This award is given to recognize outstanding contributions and extreme level of effort and service to the operation, effectiveness, and good reputation of the Society. The recipient of this year’s award is:

Sheryl L. Foster, MHlthSc(MRS)(MRI)

I have specialised in MRI for almost 30 years and LOVE it. I spent many years working in paediatrics and for the last 14 years I have worked both in a research role at a large teaching hospital in Australia where I have a small team of like-minded individuals performing a very wide range of research studies and also as an academic for The University of Sydney, where I have developed and built a new MRI curriculum which I use to teach Masters students about all aspects of MRI.

Education is very important to me as an individual but also as a tool to advance our profession and our members’ individual sense of professionalism. Regarding MRI, I enjoy teaching on any level and my enjoyment comes from seeing not only the improvements in patient care that come from better-educated practitioners but also the increase in self-worth that becomes evident in those who feel confident in their knowledge and skills. Hence my love of (and ongoing relationship with) the SMRT. After attending my first meeting in 1998 in Sydney, I have become a longstanding supporter of the organisation and its mission.