Often the work of kidney patient caregivers happens quietly behind the scenes, but recent recognition is turning the spotlight on the efforts of Stephanie Torres Rodriguez, M.D., Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Nephrology. She is being honored with a National Kidney Foundation (NKF) 2026 Rising Star Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership, advocacy, and dedication to improving kidney health. The award will be presented March 7 at the NKF’s 15th Annual Bonne Santé Gala in Frisco.

“It means a great deal to be recognized,” Dr. Torres Rodriguez said. “To know our work is having an impact and that others see it deepens my sense of purpose even more. At the same time, it’s a reflection of all of us working together toward the mission of kidney health.”

Dr. Torres Rodriguez, who also serves as Nephrology Specialty Education Coordinator for the Internal Medicine Residency Program, is being honored for her key role in expanding support for kidney health initiatives, including securing organizational sponsorship, building a strong Kidney Walk team, and contributing her expertise through Renal Roundtables and professional education programs.

“Your willingness to lend both your voice and leadership has strengthened collaboration, elevated awareness, and advanced meaningful dialogue within the kidney community,” wrote Calvin Lyons, Executive Director of the National Kidney Foundation serving Texas and Oklahoma, in the award notification letter.

UTSW sponsored a table at the October 2025 NKF Dallas-Fort Worth Kidney Walk and surpassed its fundraising goal, raising nearly $5,000.

“We also provided educational materials and, most importantly, kidney-friendly snacks to fuel everyone before the walk,” Dr. Torres Rodriguez said. “This was a chance for all of us in the UT Southwestern Nephrology Division – staff, patients, and colleagues – to unite for a shared purpose. It was truly moving to see everyone come together to advance kidney health.”

In addition, Dr. Torres Rodriguez is a member of the NKF Texoma Medical Advisory Committee, which curates and organizes educational events for both patients and the medical community across the Texas and Oklahoma region. She also serves on the Executive Council for Women in Nephrology and is a member of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) North America and the Caribbean Regional Board and the ISN Education Social Media Team. Working with these national and international initiatives is especially meaningful, she said, because kidney disease often goes unnoticed – it is silent but widespread. “This gives us the opportunity to keep raising awareness about kidney disease and to highlight the resources that are available to help,” she said.

After earning a medical degree and completing residency in internal medicine at the University of Puerto Rico, Dr. Torres Rodriguez received advanced training in nephrology through a fellowship at UT Southwestern, where she was Chief Fellow and received the Outstanding Nephrology Fellow Award. She joined the UTSW faculty in 2021.

“What drew me to UT Southwestern was how well the educational opportunities balanced with the amazing faculty I could learn from. At the same time, it was the chance to serve a diverse community, especially the underserved and Hispanic populations I feel a strong connection with,” she said.

What Dr. Torres Rodriguez loves most about her work is connecting with so many people: college and medical students, residents, fellows, colleagues, and patients.

“That network empowers educational initiatives and drives us to improve patient care,” she said. “It’s that shared passion and purpose that makes it so fulfilling.”