Illuminating Rare Champions Since 2017: The Legacy and Evolution of the TORCH Awards
Supporting people living with rare diseases has been at the heart of Sanofi's mission for more than 40 years, with a deep understanding that meaningful progress comes from working hand-in-hand with the rare disease community.
This spirit of partnership inspired the creation of the TORCH Awards (Transforming Outreach in Rare and Creating Hope) in 2017, which celebrates exceptional individuals who go above and beyond to support and empower others affected by rare conditions. Born from heartfelt conversations between Sanofi employees and community members, these awards have recognized those who make a real difference in connecting and strengthening the rare disease community.
A Community-Driven Legacy
The TORCH Awards are deeply rooted in the rare disease community. Each year, advocates, caregivers, and healthcare professionals nominate individuals who are raising awareness, educating others, or connecting patients in meaningful ways.
“The TORCH Awards were created to recognize those who boldly shine a light on rare diseases, ensuring they are no longer overlooked, silenced, or dismissed,” says Duane Clark, General Manager of U.S. Rare Disease at Sanofi. “Each year, we have the opportunity to be inspired as we learn of the selfless contributions made by incredible individuals working tirelessly to bring hope to the rare disease community.”
A panel of community-based judges, assembled by Sanofi, selects several honorees whose efforts reflect compassion, leadership, and impact. Each recipient is recognized at the annual TORCH Awards ceremony and selects a nonprofit to receive a donation in their name. Since the inception of the program, more than 45 individuals have been honored.
The TORCH Awards were created to recognize those who boldly shine a light on rare diseases, ensuring they are no longer overlooked, silenced, or dismissed.
Duane Clark
General Manager, U.S. Rare Disease
Extending Our Flame Through Recognition
In 2025, the TORCH Awards program is expanding. Now in its ninth year, the initiative will also recognize individuals driving impact in the rare blood disorder community.
“For the first time ever, we’re also championing the efforts of individuals making a difference for rare blood disorders,” says Jeff Schaffnit, Head of U.S. Rare Blood Disorders at Sanofi. “These individuals define leadership within their communities by turning personal experiences into powerful platforms that drive impact. Their work embodies the spirit of the TORCH Awards and reinforces Sanofi’s commitment to elevating rare voices and honoring those who lead with purpose.”
This year’s TORCH Award honorees reflect the diversity and strength of the rare disease community, with winners recognized for their work in advocacy, diversity and inclusion, innovation, and collaboration. Six individuals will be honored for their impact, selected from a highly competitive pool of nominations that showcased the remarkable passion and dedication across the field.
Their work embodies the spirit of the TORCH Awards and reinforces Sanofi’s commitment to elevating rare voices and honoring those who lead with purpose.
Jeff Schaffnit
Head, U.S. Rare Blood Disorders
Finding Hope from Community Heroes
On September 18, 2025, we will celebrate the 2025 TORCH Award recipients. Their stories are a powerful reminder that progress in rare disease care management is not only possible, but already happening—driven by individuals who lead with purpose and compassion.
Until then, be inspired by the stories of our previous TORCH winners:
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