Pictured from left to right: Debbie Hull, Onkar V. Khullar, MD, MSc, and Jane J. Casavant.
Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University has named Debbie Hull, Onkar V. Khullar, MD, MSc, and Jane J. Casavant as recipients of the 2026 Dell and Bobby Rearden Spirit of Winship Award.
The Spirit of Winship Award was established in memory of the late Dell and Bobby Rearden — beloved Winship patients, Advisory Board members and passionate advocates. The distinction is presented to faculty or staff members and volunteers who embody exemplary service, teamwork and a deep commitment to the public good. Each honoree will receive a monetary gift to be directed to a Winship program of their choice.
Meet the 2026 award winners
Volunteer award recipient: Jane J. Casavant
Jane J. Casavant is a longtime Emory volunteer and former Emory staff member whose decades of service reflect deep commitment to patients and families. A member of the Winship Advisory Board, she has been a steady presence as a Blue Coat volunteer, helped shape the Patient and Family Advisor program and chaired the 2024 Winship Gala.
“Jane’s service is rooted in compassion, community and a genuine desire to make things better for those facing cancer,” says Jennifer Morthland, assistant vice president for advancement. “She embodies the very best of Winship’s values through her generosity, leadership and unwavering commitment to our patients, families and the broader Winship community."
Volunteer award recipient: Debbie Hull
Over the past two years, Debbie Hull has contributed more than 450 hours of service, demonstrating an extraordinary dedication to supporting Winship’s Infusion Center. She anticipates needs, maintains patient comfort supplies and creates a calm, welcoming environment that eases long infusion visits. Her steady presence and generous heart uplift patients, families and the entire clinical team.
“Debbie not only improves the daily patient experience but also contributes to a culture of support and collaboration among staff and volunteers,” says Diane Taylor-Nalls, volunteer manager. “She exemplifies the spirit of Winship by transforming ordinary moments into opportunities for compassion and hope.”
Faculty award recipient: Onkar V. Khullar, MD, MSc
Winship thoracic surgeon Onkar V. Khullar, MD, MSc, exemplifies clinical excellence, collaboration and commitment to translate discovery into better care. As the Winship Cancer Committee Cancer Liaison Physician, he led a quality initiative that raised Commission on Cancer compliance to 100 percent, improving pathology reporting and surgical consistency for every patient.
“Dr. Khullar provides exemplary service toward his colleagues and impacts even more patient lives,” says Connie Allen, business intelligence developer and member of the Winship Cancer Committee.
Khullar also helps lead the Emory Healthcare Lung Screening and Nodule Program — bringing advanced techniques and coordinated care to detect cancer earlier — and serves as principal investigator on clinical trials that expand treatment options. Equally committed to mentorship, he trains the next generation of surgeons while maintaining high patient satisfaction.