John D. Grizzard, M.D.
Irby-James Award for Excellence in Clinical Teaching
Associate Professor of Radiology
Department: School of Medicine
Dr. John D. Grizzard, an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Radiology at VCU Medical Center, has “elevated the learning experience for every resident, student, and fellow who has rotated through cardiac imaging” through a combination of clinical excellence, pedagogical clarity, and genuine mentorship. Dr. Gianna Blundo, a Radiology Chief Resident, further notes that Dr. Grizzard “exemplifies professionalism, kindness and academic curiosity – qualities that make him an ideal model for trainees…His continued teaching even after a partial retirement further inspires us all to strive for lifelong learning.”
Dr. Grizzard received his M.D. from the Medical College of Virginia (VCU) in 1979. His postdoctoral training was extensive, encompassing an internship in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics (1979-1980), a residency in Pediatrics (1980- 1982), and a fellowship in Neonatology (1982-1983) at North Carolina Memorial Hospital. He specialized in Radiology, completing a residency at MCV Hospitals (1983-1986) before entering private practice serving the greater Richmond community from 1986 to 2003. He then joined VCU's faculty as an Assistant Professor, later becoming an Associate Professor.
In 2004, Dr. Grizzard pursued Level III Cardiovascular MRI Training at the globally recognized Duke University Medical Center and became a consistent presenter at their Practicum. Dr. Cory Trankle, Assistant Professor in the VCU School of Medicine, attended the Duke University practicum “years ago,” noting it was “widely regarded as one of the most prestigious CMR centers in the world.” The leaders at the center noted that “when they have a difficult case at Duke, particularly one involving a cardiac mass, these world experts call Dr. Grizzard and ask for his help.” Since 2004, Dr. Grizzard has served as the Section Chief of Non-invasive Cardiovascular Imaging and was honored as the Charles Baird Professor of Innovative Cardiovascular Imaging in 2009. He lectures for the Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (SCMR), and his involvement with national committees, such as the SCMR Program Committee and as Vice Chair of the SCMR Communications Committee, further underscores his influence in advancing education and clinical practice on a broader scale.
Known for his superior clinical teaching and ability to simplify complex cardiac imaging concepts for a diverse audience, Dr. Grizzard’s generous sharing of knowledge ensures that every interaction is a valuable learning opportunity. He doesn't just teach; he actively guides and supports medical students, residents, fellows, and junior faculty in their career development, including research and scholarly projects. Dr. Jonathan Weinsaft, A.M. Gotto Professor of Medicine, vividly describes this attribute: "John is an incredibly collaborative, thoughtful, and kind individual who has been selfless in his devotion to trainees…” His mentorship is a hallmark of his character. Dr. Grizzard’s teaching is not just about images but about making connections to pathophysiology and comprehensive patient care. Dr. Zachary Gertz, Professor of Medicine, further emphasizes this stating, "No one can match his depth of knowledge, and his willingness to share that knowledge is a treasure." Dr. Shaimaa Fadl, Dr. Grizzard’s successor as Section Chief, credits his "steady mentorship, thoughtful guidance, and tireless support" as pivotal to her own career development. This commitment to nurturing the next generation underscores his high standards of professionalism.
Beyond teaching, Dr. Grizzard has significantly contributed to academic literature. He is a co-author of the case-based textbook, Cardiovascular MRI in Practice: A Teaching File Approach and has authored numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles. His dedication to education has been acknowledged with awards such as the Anthony Proto Faculty Mentorship Award (2024) and the Klaus Ranninger Memorial Award for Excellence in Teaching Diagnostic Radiology Residents (2004, 2013). Dr. Grizzard truly embodies the spirit of exceptional clinical teaching and professionalism that the Irby-James Award celebrates.