Dear Colleagues-Friends,
The New Year has brought news of alumni, faculty and students making important contributions. I’d like to share a few of their stories with you:
- A renovated library in West Hospital now carries the name of Dr. Michael Hess.
I’ve heard Dr. Hess described as a heart library himself, owing to his extensive knowledge ranging from basic cardiac physiology to the complexities of heart failure. So dedicating this useful space to him is very appropriate. With a reputation as a scholar, Dr. Hess’ more than 30-year tenure includes running NIH-funded basic science research, publishing in journals like Nature and working alongside pioneering surgeon Richard Lower, M.D., in the early days of our transplant center. His compassion was powerful therapy in the clinics and hospital, and his collaborations with physiologists and biologists contributed to important advances in the heart failure field. He is an outstanding teacher, mentor and physician, and the hi-tech library that honors his legacy will be tremendously helpful to the heart-failure faculty and residents who continue his work. - The Class of 87’s Thomas Eichler, M.D., has been named president-elect of ASTRO.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology is the world’s largest radiation oncology society. - The Class of 72’s James Patterson, M.D., was twice-honored at the recent ASDP annual meeting.
He received the American Society of Dermatopathology’s Founders’ Award and was asked to present the Elson B. Helwig Memorial Lecture. - The Class of 2020’s Avanthi Jayaweera has received a prestigious fellowship from the American Medical Student Association.
The fellowship gives her the chance to focus on issues like affordable high-quality health care, global health equity and diversity in the healthcare workforce.
With every good wish for your continued good work,
Peter F. Buckley, M.D.
Dean, VCU School of Medicine
Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, VCU Health System