Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine Honor Medallion

2020 Recipients

EDWIN HARRIS, DPM ’70

Dr. Edwin Harris graduated Summa Cum Laude from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine in 1970. In the five decades since, Dr. Harris has dedicated himself to his students, his patients, his community, and the profession of podiatric medicine. He has served as teacher and mentor for thousands of podiatric medical students, guiding them through classes, workshops and labs, preparing them for those crucial early clinical experiences that are so vital to the learning process. 

Renowned for his specialized work in pediatric podiatry, Dr. Harris’ interests include pediatric neuromuscular disease, reconstructive congenital foot deformity surgery and pediatric foot and ankle trauma. Throughout his distinguished career, he has not only treated and brought healing to his patients, but also lectured, published, administered and volunteered. 

Dr. Harris has taught at Scholl College since 1970 holding the roles of Professor and Chairman of the Department of Radiology and Professor of Podiatric Orthopedics, in the Section of Pediatric Orthopedics. Since 1989 he has also served as a Clinical Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation at Loyola University Chicago Stritch College of Medicine. He is on the medical staffs of several local hospitals.

Even with his extremely busy schedule, he has served as a valued mentor to so many Scholl College students and participated in numerous panel discussions and events. He is proud of his unique specialty and always prepared to treat not only pediatric patients, but their families as well. 

LISA M. SCHOENE, DPM ’90 

A sports medicine specialist and Certified Athletic Trainer, Lisa M. Schoene, DPM ’90, ATC, FACFAS, is highly sought-after by Olympic, professional and semi-professional athletes and dancers both locally and nationally. She has built a very successful practice, Gurnee Podiatry and Sports Medicine Associates, in Gurnee, IL.

There is no finer role model for future podiatric physicians than Dr. Schoene, who cares so genuinely about Scholl College students. She encourages and supports the next generation in so many ways — first and foremost, in the thoughtful way she conducts both her personal and professional life, which is a wonderful reflection on us all.

Hundreds of Scholl College students have flourished under Dr. Schoene’s mentorship — whether hosting clinical rotations, offering shadowing opportunities, or employing students at Gurnee Podiatry. In 2009, students named her the Scholl College Mentor of the Year. 

Three decades into the profession, Dr. Schoene is widely published and an acclaimed lecturer. She has been an outspoken advocate of Scholl College and its students, as well as the profession as a whole. She has led by example and become an expert in the field through her hard work, volunteerism and many diverse experiences treating patients. 

Dr. Schoene’s generous, professional leadership deserves the highest commendation. She has earned the trust, respect and gratitude of her patients, her community, her peers, and her alma mater.