UP Health System – Marquette Announces Recipient of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award, Craig Coccia, MD

Craig Coccia, MD, Neurosurgeon in the Brain and Spine Center at UP Health System - Marquette, has been chosen as the latest recipient of the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award. This quarterly award at UP Health System – Marquette recognizes exemplary employees of the support and ancillary departments of the hospital who clearly see their purpose and importance in supporting the care of our patients and our community.

A fellow physician nominated Dr. Coccia in recognition of his positive influence on all who cross his path and impact on our community, as well as his medical expertise in neurological surgery.

Dr. Coccia has had a positive influence on so many people in this community and it’s clear each individual interaction culminates into his widespread impact on the greater community of the Upper Peninsula, and certainly beyond. He truly sees the best in people and uses all of his personal and professional resources to help those around him, from patients, to colleagues, and everyone in between.

— Excerpt from Dr. Coccia's nomination

"I'm extremely humbled and honored to receive this award in honor of my former colleague, Dr. Julianne Kirkham," said Dr. Coccia. "I cannot accept this without also recognizing those who have helped me along the way, in particular, Linda Smith, LPN, who has been my nurse, right hand, and an integral part of my practice since the beginning."

Dr. Coccia has over 36 years of experience in the medical field and nearly 30 years on the medical staff at UP Health System—Marquette. During his time here, he has served in a number of roles such as Chief of Staff, hospital board member, Medical Director for the Brain & Spine Center, and a mentor to countless others. 

About the Dr. Julianne Kirkham Award

Named in honor of Dr. Julianne Kirkham, this award pays tribute to those who, just as Dr. Kirkham did, believe that our own lives become better as we help others’ lives become better. Every individual patient mattered to Dr. Kirkham, and she touched countless lives throughout her career. She was a true educator to patients, families, and fellow medical colleagues. She was intellectually curious and had a deep love for helping others. Her warmth, knowledgeable compassion, sense of justice, and fierce advocacy for her patients during their darkest times gave them hope and direction. Her sense of humor was brilliant, helping to put her patients at ease. Dr. Kirkham lived her life with a greater purpose to help others.

Sadly, Dr. Kirkham passed away unexpectedly in 2020. She was courageous, generous, and inspiring, with an unrelenting desire to create a ripple effect of positive change in the people and the world around us. In honor of Dr. Kirkham’s memory, UP Health System – Marquette created this award to recognize those who follow in her footsteps.

Recipients of this award are chosen by a hospital committee on a quarterly basis based on nominations submitted by staff.