Dr. Dee Ann DeRoin, Lawrence, was one of nine women who received the “2008 Women Who Make A Difference” award at the International Women’s Forum World Leadership Conference in Pittsburgh.

DeRoin, a member of the Ioway Tribe of Kansas, was a founding member and first president of the Four Tribes Women’s Wellness Coalition. At the ceremony, she was recognized as “a true champion to an underserved community, who has helped increase health prospects for girls and women in the Native American community.”

Her work includes a significant screening project to increase colorectal cancer awareness and screening in 10 rural, reservation and urban communities. She also works in the areas of diabetes, cancer, HIV and cultural competence.