UK Medicine - Winter 2024: A Renewed Vision

SOLVING KENTUCKY’S GREATEST HEALTH CHALLENGES

A Renewed Vision

FIRST-GENERATION GRAD STUDENT HAS FOUND HER STRIDE

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SUCCESS AT REGIONAL CAMPUSES SHOWS

WHAT’S WILDLY POSSIBLE

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NEW UK HEALTH EDUCATION BUILDING WILL BEAR NAME OF ESTEEMED ALUMNUS

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LEGACIES HONORED THROUGH SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

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Charles “Chipper” Griffith III, MD, MSPH Dean, UK College of Medicine

A RENEWED VISION

For more than 30 years, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine has been a special place to me. I’m now in the midst of my first year as dean of the college, and it has truly been an honor to work with faculty, staff, and learners in this new capacity.

The UK College of Medicine continues to position itself as a leader in medical education and research. We are capable of achieving great things for our state and beyond. With established regional campuses, a new education building on the horizon, and growing research infrastructure, we are now developing a renewed vision for what we are capable of.

We must continue to test those limits, to aim higher.

Our regional campuses in Bowling Green and Northern Kentucky – which opened in 2018 and 2019, respectively – have four classes of medical students. Meanwhile, our Rural Physician Leadership Program in Morehead is flourishing, and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in Kentucky recently gifted $100,000 in scholarships, which will in turn lead to more wellprepared doctors out in our communities.

Our amazing team of expert faculty and staff are helping shape careers through unwavering support. Researchers are teaching trainees, including first-generation students, how to embrace new challenges. They are empowering them to embark on publications, shadowing opportunities, and groundbreaking projects.

In October, we were happy to celebrate successful reunions for our alumni including tours with our students, trips to Keeneland, and fun cheering on the ‘Cats for football season. A major goal is to continue finding new ways to stay engaged with our college community: faculty, staff, trainees, and alumni. To all who help us achieve great things, we want to keep in touch. We want your input.

You will learn more about our renewed vision in this edition of UK Medicine. I’m honored to serve our college at this pivotal time.

I can’t end this note without acknowledging the incredible impact of the late Carl Watson, MD, whom we lost this past fall. As the first Black graduate of the UK College of Medicine, Dr. Watson made history the moment he received his medical degree. However, that was far from the end of a flourishing medical career. In this magazine, you can read about Dr. Watson’s many accomplishments helping advance health care.

Charles Griffith III, MD, MSPH Dean, College of Medicine

From early decision to faculty, ‘rising star’ Dr. Sam Potter stays at UK to serve Kentucky communities

Samuel Potter, MD, considers himself a “lifelong Kentuckian.” He was born and raised in the Commonwealth and says he has no intentions of leaving anytime soon. The Pikeville, Ky., native grew up watching his father run a small medical practice, learning about health disparities affecting such rural areas from a young age.

As a high school senior, Dr. Potter visited a variety of college campuses but recalls that none felt like home in the way the University of Kentucky did. Already drawn to the campus for its many opportunities, Potter’s decision was cemented when he received the prestigious Otis A. Singletary Scholarship. Singletary scholars are admitted to the Lewis Honors College and receive a full-tuition merit scholarship for four years to support “their future potential to lead lives of intellect, integrity, and service in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the world.”

Dr. Potter also participated in the Professional Education Preparation Program (PEPP) at the urging of Margaret McConnel, former PEPP program director at the UK Outreach Center for Health and Science Opportunities.

“Through my experiences working with physicians at UK HealthCare through programs like PEPP, I knew that the culture of the College of Medicine was a supportive and collegial one,” Potter said. “I also knew that I wanted to stay in Kentucky long-term and practice medicine within the state to best serve those in my own communities.”

Potter applied early decision to the College of Medicine and was accepted. During his first year, he was selected to participate in the FamTrack program under the guidance of then-

Chair Wanda Gonsalves, MD, in the department of family and community medicine. FamTrack offers first-year medical students the opportunity to shadow physicians and begin practicing patient care skills much earlier than traditional third-year clerkships. “My first experience interviewing and examining patients happened during FamTrack,” said Potter. “It can be really intimidating to walk into an exam room for the first time wearing a white coat and carrying a stethoscope, but Dr. Gonsalves’ support and guidance made it all go smoothly.”

Dr. Potter has benefitted greatly from mentor relationships over the years, crediting those previously mentioned, as well as Teresa Gevedon, MD, and Steven Johnson, PhD,

Dr. Potter (back , left) poses with the 2014 cohort of PEPP Scholars and former PEPP program director, Margaret McConnell (front, right)

While in medical school, Dr. Potter seized the opportunity to conduct and present research to peers and colleagues.

LCSW, for contributing to his successes here. As a result, Dr. Potter has made a conscious effort to participate and provide mentorship whenever possible. For several years, he served as a mentor to other Singletary scholars through the Lewis Honors College. During medical school, he served as a mentor for the Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Connect program and delivered an annual lecture to students in the agricultural and medical biotechnology program, his undergraduate major, focusing on preparing for professional school.

As a chief resident in the department of psychiatry, Dr. Potter discovered his passion for clinical teaching and enjoys working alongside medical students and other residents to treat mental illnesses and reduce the stigma that surrounds them. Of course, not every medical student who works with Dr. Potter will choose to specialize in psychiatry, but he believes it is essential for all physicians-in-training, regardless of their specialty, to learn more about treating patients with mental illness.

When asked how the College of Medicine has supported his journey, Potter shared “it’s difficult to pick just one thing because all of my training has been here— my undergrad was here, my med school experience was here, my residency is here.”

“All of my education after the 12th grade was at the University of Kentucky. So, asking how it supported me? It was everything. It’s been my entire journey— it’s been this institution.”

Though his time as a resident is soon coming to an end, Dr. Potter has no intentions of leaving Lexington. He is poised to join the department of psychiatry as an assistant professor in September 2024. His clinical responsibilities will be split between the Behavioral Health Unit (BHU) at Good Samaritan Hospital and Eastern State Hospital. At both locations, he will have the ability to work extensively with medical students and residents to provide compassionate care to his patients.

“Dr. Potter is a rising star and I am certain he will have a great impact on the clinical educational mission of the department moving forward,” said Seth Himelhoch, MD, MPH, chair of the department.

“Working here will help me fulfill my own goals of treating and serving my fellow Kentuckians, all while training future physicians to do the same,” shared Dr. Potter, reflecting on his upcoming appointment. “It has been an honor and privilege to receive all of the experience, training, and support that I have received during my time here, and I hope to pass as much of that as I can to the next generation training here.”

Dr. Potter is not the only Wildcat in his family. His sister, Rachel Potter, MD, also attended the University of Kentucky for her undergraduate studies and played for the women’s basketball team during that time. Following in her brother’s footsteps, she attended the UK College of Medicine and is now two years into her internal medicine residency program at UK HealthCare.

Following in their father’s footsteps, siblings Samuel Potter, MD, (left) and Rachel Potter, MD, (right) plan to practice medicine in their home state of Kentucky.

“I knew I wanted to do something in medicine or science because there was no cause or cure for what I had.”

First-generation grad student Jerika Durham has found her stride

Jerika Durham is a PhD candidate in the department of toxicology and cancer biology. Durham, who grew up in eastern Kentucky, is not only the first person in her family to pursue such a degree, but the first to attend college at all.

As a first-generation student, Durham faced many obstacles, like financial insecurity and imposter syndrome, but she was determined to make a career for herself in medicine. Her interest was piqued at a young age after being diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease. “I knew I wanted to do something in medicine or science because there was no cause or cure for what I had—that was my biggest reason for wanting to go to college,” said Durham.

Durham studied public health during her undergraduate tenure, earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Kentucky. Reflecting on her situation, she shared “I struggled in my earlier math classes; I had to rely on the bus for transportation, which ended its route as early as 6 p.m. some days, so I couldn’t stay late to study or make it to office hours. It impacted me academically, I think, more than my peers.”

In addition to coming from lowerincome households, first-generation students often incur more college debt than non-first-gen students. Durham, like many first-generation students, had to rely on loans to make ends meet. After beginning the Master of Science in Medical Sciences program at the UK College of Medicine, she was able to use loan money to purchase a car, allowing her to study later and see a noticeable shift in her grades.

With support from her peers and a tenacious knack for learning, Durham has finally found her stride. Durham also credits her mentors, Bernhard Hennig, PhD, and Kate Zaytseva, PhD, for their unwavering support throughout her academic journey.

Under the guidance of Dr. Zaysteva, who serves as a member and project leader of the University of Kentucky Superfund Research Center, Durham is currently researching environmental toxins and their potential impacts on colon cancer.

Now, three years into her PhD program, Durham has traveled to several conferences to present her research, including the Society of Toxicology annual meeting and the John P. Wyatt Environment and Health Symposium. Without departmental support, she said that experience would not have been affordable as a first-generation student.

Durham is still figuring out her next steps after completing her doctoral degree, but her ambitions include attending medical school or launching a career in industry. Either way, she intends to stay in Kentucky with hopes of expanding her research to explore the prevalence of colon cancer in the Commonwealth and Kentucky-specific toxins that may be a factor.

Durham laments that the feeling of imposter syndrome may never fade completely, but she said the support

of her fellow students has made a tremendous difference.

“In our department, the other students have become a tertiary family. You don’t feel like an imposter because you’re all looking out for each other—there’s no competition, just support,” she said.

Durham is paying that support forward too. For the last two years, she has been mentoring a local high school senior studying in the lab. Though most of their time together is spent learning to run PCR tests or plating cells for an assay, they also regularly discuss college applications and potential career opportunities in medicine and science.

“Jerika has great mentoring skills and has been instrumental in helping her mentee to successfully compete in science fair and earn second place in the poster competition,” shared Dr. Zaysteva. “I am very proud of her being persistent in overcoming multiple challenges and striving to achieve her goals.”

Jerika guides her mentee, Chakri, as they conduct research in the lab

A Renewed Vision

CIT’S ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT EDUCATION

FOR DEAN GRIFFITH, AND ALWAYS WILL BE.

harles “Chipper” Griffith’s workday uniform switched from scrubs to office wear when he graduated residency and joined the University of Kentucky College of Medicine faculty in 1994. Shortly after, he began making a statement with loud, colorful ties.

It started with wearing holiday ties out of season, a snowman in the summer or pumpkins in the spring. They reminded him to “approach every day like a holiday.”

The ties may have served as the reminder, but for Dr. Griffith, teaching was what made each day at the office feel like a holiday. He relished in the joy of seeing his mentees overcome obstacles and pursue their passion for medicine.

In July 2023, after 30-plus years impacting education at the UK College of Medicine, Dr. Griffith was appointed “Dean Griffith,” a position that allows him to make a difference behind the scenes.

His title has changed and responsibilities have increased, but Dean Griffith has kept the same North Star – education. It is what he believes ties all the components of the UK College of Medicine’s mission together.

“We were created to serve students,” he said. “They have to be at the forefront.”

That value hasn’t wavered. Under his leadership, education at the UK College of Medicine is only going to be stronger –leading to the continued advancement of health care for Kentuckians and beyond.

Dean Griffith’s journey to UK began in the 1980s as an internal medicine/pediatrics resident, but his connection to the college began much earlier. His father was a UK pediatrics resident in the ‘60s and one of the first trainees under legendary doctor Jacqueline Noonan, MD, who became UK’s first female department chair, discovered a genetic disorder (later named after her), and helped found Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

Dean Griffith watched in awe as his father learned from strong mentors and accomplished a fulfilling medical career – which continues to this day.

In fact, Dean Griffith interviewed with Dr. Noonan when applying for residency at UK. On his tour, he was greeted by

A RENEWED VISION

UK has embraced the mantle of being the College of Medicine for Kentucky. We have stepped up, and we need to continue to do so.

another physician who had just been on-call. Despite being up all night, eyes puffy, the doctor was incredibly friendly. That left an impression.

He and his wife, Beth Griffith, MD, eventually fell in love with Lexington, Ky. Very soon after his first day in residency, he fell in love with teaching.

Over his 30-plus years at UK, he has worn many hats: clerkship director, residency program director, senior associate dean for medical student education, and vice dean for education. Throughout that time, he has appreciated the college’s rich history. It was actually established in a cornfield, with leaders from all over the country joining forces to bring important care and research to the Commonwealth. “In our mission, we stand on the shoulders of these giants,” Dean Griffith said.

The college has since achieved many educational milestones – ones he hopes to build upon as dean. UK has spread across the state including residency programs in Bowling Green, Hazard, and Morehead; two regional four-year campuses in Bowling Green and Northern Kentucky; and the Rural Physician Leadership Program in Morehead.

In the spring/summer of 2023, the UK College of Medicine graduated nearly 200 medical students; 50 master’s, graduate

certificate, and PhD students; and 320 residents and fellows.

This growth has positioned the University as a leader within the state. “UK has embraced the mantle of being the College of Medicine for Kentucky,” Dean Griffith said. “We have stepped up, and we need to continue to do so.”

Growth is vital in expanding opportunities for advanced training, care, and science. Teaming with the UK Vice President for Research, Dean Griffith will enhance clinical research infrastructure and build upon UK’s collaborative atmosphere. Part of this goal is to attain $100 million of research growth over five years, with a focus on clinical research.

This focus capitalizes on the success of UK’s multidisciplinary centers such as the Center for Clinical and Translational Science, Markey Cancer Center, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, Kentucky’s only National Institutes on Aging Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. UK’s centers bring faculty, staff, and learners of all specialties together to promote health equity, treatment, and disease prevention.

A RENEWED VISION

As the college creates more opportunities for learners, it must also meet demand. There were 4,198 prospective medical students who applied for 201 available spots in the Class of 2027.

The UK College of Medicine is on the verge of building a state-of-the-art Michael D. Rankin, M.D., Health Education Building with the colleges of Public Health, Health Sciences, and Nursing, and the Center for Interprofessional Community Health Education (CICHE). When the building is completed, UK will have the capacity to train more than 1,000 medical students across all campuses and stand among the largest medical

This milestone is crucial for improving health care access. A 2021 report from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) estimates that by 2034, physician demand will exceed the supply by 124,000 physicians. Kentucky’s health care needs are among the highest in the country, and there are many rural

By training more medical students in Kentucky, there will be more physicians equipped with the skills to address the state’s burdening prevalence of disease. The hope – and what has already been proven – is to instill a sense of purpose that motivates many to stay, pursue residency, and practice in

“We have the applicant pool. We have the qualified students ready to come to Kentucky and train,” Dean Griffith said. “It’s going to be exciting to be able to do that.”

Thanks to its growth, the UK College of Medicine has built an institution capable of leading significant change, not just in the

Dean Griffith understands the responsibility of his new leadership role and the urgency of the college’s work, but he also knows that taking care of others requires staying true to his roots.

To this day, it is not surprising to see him sport a tie-dye tie for a get-together with alumni or a Snoopy tie when giving a speech.

He has accumulated dozens of funky ties over the years, many of which are gifts from his trainees and colleagues. They now serve as a reminder of what the UK College of Medicine is all about –providing exceptional education within a strong community.

“We always want to work on making this continue to be a warm, welcoming, inclusive place,” he said. “The risk of growth is you become less personal, but even as we grow, we retain those close relationships, which are what make this place so special.”

Dean Griffith doesn’t need the tie to make a day at the office feel like a holiday. His favorite part of the job, including as dean of the college, is teaching and seeing his mentees shine. The college broke ground on the Michael D. Rankin, M.D., Health Education Building on Oct. 27, 2023. He calls the event one of the best days of his career because of the possibilities it represents.

The expansion of medical and biomedical programs and facilities allows the college to admit more learners. That means more opportunities for dynamic teaching. More grant-funded studies for biomedical trainees to join. More opportunities for students to gain early hands-on experience.

And as a result, better health outcomes. The vision is “all about how we can make more of those dreams come true” for the improved health of our patients.

Success at regional campuses shows what’s wildly possible

UK’s goal of training rural physicians is propelled through major grant, scholarships

The UK College of Medicine continues to help alleviate the Commonwealth’s physician shortage by training future health care leaders, including many who are equipped to practice in rural settings. In recent months, the college has received a major grant and commitment to scholarships that will help further progress in its goal.

In October 2023, the UK College of Medicine announced it received a four-year, nearly $16 million grant from the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA). UK will receive $3.97 million a year over the next four years to support efforts to increase the number and diversity of primary care physicians in Kentucky, with the ultimate goal of improving health care access in underserved areas of the state.

In addition, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in Kentucky has provided new scholarship opportunities for students in the Rural Physician Leadership Program. Announced on Nov. 16, 2023 – which was National Rural Health Day – the Anthem Rural Medicine Scholarships will provide $100,000 to offset the cost of medical school.

Students at Northern Kentucky Campus help bring new clinical skills lab to life

Students at the UK College of Medicine-Northern Kentucky Campus have led efforts to enhance important handson skills training with the establishment of a new Development of Clinical Skills (DOCS) Lab.

In 2023, students took an underutilized space in the Northern Kentucky University Albright Health Center and turned it into a functioning skills lab. This space will provide students the chance to learn, practice, and receive constructive feedback on their clinical skills from upperclassmen and volunteering local physicians.

There is equipment to practice a wide variety of procedures including suturing and airway management using task trainers.

Megan Ward, a second-year student, said that during her first year, she recognized an opportunity for space and resources that would allow Northern Kentucky Campus students to practice hands-on skill development prior to clinical rotations beginning in the third year of medical school. She was able to recruit fellow students – including Evan Groneman, Natalie Hagan, Sarah Hoffmann, and Emily Paulin – to help bring the idea to life.

“This new addition not only improves the experience and enrichment of the students at our campus, but also continues to embody our value of maintaining a growth mindset and fostering equal opportunity between all regional and main campuses of the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, resulting in more competitive residency applicants and ultimately more well-rounded physicians,” Ward said.

“This generous gift will equip more mission-driven students with the training to become doctors who can fulfill vital health care needs in rural communities,” said Dean Charles Griffith, MD, MSPH. “The College of Medicine is incredibly grateful for Anthem’s commitment to enhancing health care access and allowing more students to fulfill their dreams.”

Joining the Anthem scholarship announcement were (from left to right) Stephanie White, MD, MS, senior associate dean for medical student education; Rebecca Todd, MD, associate dean for the Rural Physician Leadership Program; RPLP student Makayla Arnett; Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Medicaid in Kentucky President Leon Lamoreaux, and Dean Charles Griffith.

Students at the Northern Kentucky Campus spearheaded efforts to establish a clinical skills lab.

All first-year internal medicine residents at Med Center Health are Bowling Green Campus alums

Mallory Vaughn, MD, has wanted to be a doctor most of her life. When she was just 8 years old, her grandmother experienced a cardiac event and needed treatment.

“Her cardiologist noticed little me tilting my head to look at the screens and pictures of what he had done, so he got down on my level and explained it to me in words that I could understand,” Dr. Vaughn said. “And from that day forward, I’ve always said that’s what I want to do— I want to fix hearts.”

Dr. Vaughn is an alumna of the UK College of MedicineBowling Green Campus and a first-year resident in internal medicine at Med Center Health. The College of Medicine remains committed to training physicians like Dr. Vaughn to meet the rising health needs of the Commonwealth. This commitment is shared by the six other first-year internal medicine residents at Med Center Health as well, all of whom are alumni of the UK College of Medicine-Bowling Green Campus.

“I remember watching physicians talk to their patients when I was in med school. The way they explained health care to them, and how knowledgeable they were, not only of evidence-based medicine, but also how to make that palatable to patients so they can understand it—that made me want to train here,” she shared, reflecting on why she chose to continue her training in Bowling Green.

In the fall of 2018, the Bowling Green Campus welcomed its first class of medical students. Less than two years later, those students were preparing to enter their third year of medical school during a global pandemic. Unlike the first two years of training, students in their third

year spend time rotating between different clinical specialties to receive in-depth training and patient care experience.

Dr. Vaughn shared that training during the COVID-19 pandemic brought her class closer together, building a strong sense of community not only amongst each other but within the larger campus community as well.

“I think the pandemic made us really understand that health care is a team sport—it’s a collaborative effort in every way, and training during that time made us hyperaware that you are never alone in this profession,” Dr. Vaughn said. “You always have your colleagues around you, and when you work so closely together, they truly do become another family to you.”

Dr. Patrick Stalcup, MD, DPT, also values the close relationships he has made during his training thus far. He shared how having the satellite campus in the western part of the state allowed him to go to medical school without uprooting his entire life. He was especially drawn to the campus for its focus on rural medicine. Growing up in Burkesville, Ky, Dr. Stalcup and his family often would have to travel to a larger city like Lexington or Louisville to receive complex medical care. With the College of Medicine’s multi-campus expansion, and growing partnerships with providers like Med Center Health, that kind of care is now within reach for families like his.

Dr. Stalcup also admired the dedication to patient care he saw from physicians at Med Center Health, noting “there was no doubt, even during medical school, of where I wanted to do my residency.” He went on to explain, “the proximity to my family was one reason to stay, of course, but every resident, fellow, and attending I worked with during my time here made me want to stay here.”

‘It’s all about relationships’ Advanced practice providers help fill need for urologic care:

Elizabeth Smith, PA-C, has been an advanced practice provider (APP) in the University of Kentucky College of Medicine Department of Urology for eight years. Her specialty is urologic oncology, splitting her clinical role between the Kentucky Clinic and Markey Cancer Center.

A typical day is busy. “It’s a whole day of patient care,” including appointments, image reviews, record reviews, and care coordination, Smith said.

But for Smith, it is about seeing patients as human beings, first and foremost.

“We’re seeing people at their most vulnerable,” she said. “They’re scared. They have a lot of questions. And it’s just a real opportunity to treat them as a whole person. It’s all about relationships for me.”

APPs like Smith fill an important need for compassionate urologic care in the Commonwealth. According to the American Urological Association, Kentucky maintains an approximate 3.88 urologist-to-population ratio (per 100,000 population), with many counties across the state underserved.

Similar to a physician, an APP’s role encompasses patient care and medical

activities. They are nationally certified and state licensed to diagnose, treat, and follow-up with patients. However, their expertise comes from training as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, certified midwives, or nurse anesthetists.

Most of the UK College of Medicine’s clinical departments have APPs on their teams. APPs collaborate with physicians in acute care and clinical settings. In addition to providing exceptional care, the APP team is a valuable clinical resource for office staff and trainees across several health care career paths. Early into his leadership of the UK College of Medicine Department of Urology, Stephen Strup, MD, was adamant about bringing more APPs to his team to provide excellent care and prepare the next generation of urologic specialists.

“They do amazing work,” said Dr. Strup, who is the James F. Glenn Professor and Chair of Urology. “They take great care of our patients, and we’re blessed to have a really good group of people. It’s a great piece of our practice.”

Today, among its 24 clinical providers, his UK HealthCare urology team has 10 APPs with additional team members at the affiliated VA Hospital.

Amber Davis, DNP, APRN, Mary Kate Stafford, DNP, APRN, and Megan Robinson, NP-C, serve as female urology nurse practitioners. Conditions they treat include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, recurrent urinary tract infections, painful bladder syndrome, and pelvic floor dysfunction, which Dr. Davis said is common in women but “under-diagnosed and undertreated.”

Their all-female APP team provides life-changing care for women across the Commonwealth.

“So many women avoid talking about health inconveniences as they age, so just improving their quality of life and seeing how it changes their lives is such a gratifying experience,” Dr. Davis said.

APPs are dedicated to serving patients and learners. In addition, as UK College of Health Sciences and UK College of Nursing alumnae, Dr. Davis, Smith, and Stafford say they are proud to help fulfill the mission of the University.

“We just feel very fortunate and blessed to be able to work within the health care system and provide the top-notch quality care for our patients and for the Commonwealth,” Stafford said. “That’s the mission. We’re thankful to be able to do it.”

PRIM HUDGINS MEET

The alumni connection to the UK College of Medicine

In May 2023, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine welcomed Prim Hudgins as its new alumni engagement director.

In this role, Hudgins is eager to foster existing relationships and build new connections with UK College of Medicine alumni across all departments, programs, training levels, and campuses.

Though new to the UK College of Medicine, Hudgins has worked at the University of Kentucky for nearly 20 years, most recently as director of events and associate director of admissions.

Before joining UK, she served in various roles at Churchill Downs horseracing track, JMI Communications (formerly Host Communications), the University of New Mexico’s athletics department, and Pepsi Co.

Hudgins is a Lexington, Ky., native. She attended Lexington Catholic High School and graduated from UK with a bachelor’s degree in business management.

“I love Lexington and everything it has to offer, from horses, bourbon, sports, health care, and so much more,” she said.

Outside of work, Hudgins is president-elect for Equestrian Events, Inc. She is a huge sports fan and enjoys watching UK, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Cincinnati Reds, and all thoroughbred racing.

Stay Connected with the College of Medicine

Hudgins’ favorite part of her job is “the relationships I have made with undergraduate students, faculty, staff, and alumni.”

She is excited to engage with UK College of Medicine alumni and welcomes anyone to reach out and stay connected. She is only a phone call or email away and is happy to meet in person or through Zoom.

How to Reach Prim Hudgins

Phone: 859-323-5834

Email: primwathen@uky.edu or medicinealumni@uky.edu

Nermin Ahmed, RD

Biomedical trainees honored for excellence

The UK College of Medicine celebrated faculty, staff, and learners across medical education, graduate medical education, and biomedical education during its annual Awards Convocation in October.

The Office of Biomedical Education recognized three of its trainees for excellence in research and academics.

Nermin Ahmed, RD, won the Dr. Madhav and Dr. Radhika Devalaraja Outstanding Graduate Student Thesis Award. Ahmed won as a graduate student in her final year of study with a thesis that is inspiring, innovative, and displays high-impact subject matter research. Ahmed is a PhD student in

the department of pharmacology and nutritional sciences, working in the lab of Analia Loria, PhD.

This award was established thanks to a generous gift from two UK College of Medicine alumni who have gone above and beyond to inspire future generations of UK graduates. “Drs. Madhav and Radhika Devalaraja may have already completed the UK PhD program, but their commitment to UK continues through their contributions to biomedical education,” said Ford Stanley, DPhil, associate vice president for philanthropy. “UK is grateful to be able to build a lasting partnership with two exemplary scientists and mentors.”

For a full list of Awards Convocation winners, scan here.

The Outstanding Graduate Student Award was presented to Jamila Tucker, MS, a graduate student in microbiology, immunology, and molecular genetics who demonstrated continued success in academics, research, and service. This year, Tucker also won the Lyman T. Johnson Torch Bearer Award. The Lyman T. Johnson Awards are given to Black members of the UK community whose faith, hard work, and determination have positively impacted the lives of people on campus, the city, state, or nation.

Justin Welden, PhD, was honored with the Outstanding Postdoctoral Researcher Award. Dr. Welden is a scholar whose research focuses on tauopathies, including Alzheimer’s disease. He co-founded a biotech company, CircCure Corporation, to develop new treatments that target circular RNAs and their respective proteins to combat these diseases. Dr. Welden has completed a two-year T32 postdoctoral training fellowship, “Training in Translational Research in Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias (TRIAD),” under the mentorship of Peter Nelson, MD, PhD, and Stefan Stamm, PhD. Dr. Welden filed two provisional patents with his mentor, Dr. Stamm, with the University of Kentucky’s Office of Technology and Commercialization as new drug therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Welden presented his research (“RNA editing of the microtubule-associated protein tau circular RNAs promotes their translation and tau tangle formation”) at the 2022 Markesbery Symposium, where he won the Outstanding Poster Award. Dr. Welden presented his work as a talk for the plenary session, “RNA and Disease,” at the 2023 International RNA Society in Singapore. Dr. Welden has continued to serve the University of Kentucky on the search committee for the molecular and cellular biochemistry department chair as well as training and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Jamila Tucker, MS

Justin Welden, PhD

HINDS IN THE

TRAINEES GAIN EXPERIENCE WITH CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH

Terry Hinds, PhD, joined the University of Kentucky College of Medicine faculty with an impressive record of groundbreaking research and state-of-the-art specialized technology. He is not only advancing scientific discoveries at UK but also helping more undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows gain early experience with high-impact work.

Graduate student Zachary Kipp recognizes the worldwide impact of the research he has joined. In fact, he, along with the lab, attends biweekly meetings with international leaders in the study of liver disease.

Kipp followed Dr. Hinds from the University of Toledo College of Medicine, where he started working with Dr. Hinds in 2019. As a 2021-entering UK graduate student, Kipp has already been part of nine papers, with four first authors. And he was a major part of Dr. Hinds’ research on the potential use of bilirubin to treat human disease, published in Science magazine. Dr. Hinds discovered that bilirubin functions as a hormone, which has made a global impact. One of Kipp’s major projects is leading a study of bilirubin and its role in treating cardiometabolic diseases.

Kipp was selected for the highly prestigious National Institutes of Health (NIH) F31 Predoctoral Fellowship. His work for his fellowship studies bilirubin breakdown in the gut from bacteria, which form the molecule into urobilin, and then the body reabsorbs it. Kipp’s published first-author paper showed that urobilin is significantly higher in obese humans and is positively associated with fat accumulation and insulin resistance that leads to Type 2 diabetes.

Terry D. Hinds, Jr., PhD Associate Professor, Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences

“What’s really cool is we were the first to show that urobilin may cause diabetes and that there’s a sex difference,” Kipp said. In a paper he co-authored, the lab argued that urobilin could be causing an increase in the prevalence of diabetes and related diseases in women.

The Hinds Lab primarily studies obesity and diabetes, a Research Priority Area at UK. The lab uses the PamGene PamStation, an advanced instrument that allows the quantifications of more than 340 kinase pathway activities simultaneously. Dr. Hinds said it is the most advanced technology in the world for studying signaling pathways. When he joined the faculty, UK was the fourth site in the United States to utilize it.

“I think it’s probably 10 years ahead of the curve,” Dr. Hinds said, “and UK is on the forefront of that.”

He said that while traditional RNA and DNA sequencing can determine a person’s susceptibility to some diseases, this new technology measures the physiological actions of the proteins. It is the only instrument in the world that can actually determine what signaling pathways are altered, giving hints as to what medication a person may need to take. It also allows researchers to test therapies on patient samples inside the machine rather than on the patient.

This advanced equipment has led Dr. Hinds to collaborate with numerous researchers across UK studying addiction, cancer, and more.

• He and co-principal investigator Cassandra GipsonReichardt, PhD, associate professor of pharmacology and nutritional sciences, recently received a $2.65 million NIH grant. Using the PamGene PamStation, the scientists will study the impacts of xylazine on fentanyl effects.

• He received pilot funding from the Diabetes and Obesity Research Priority Area with Kevin Pearson, PhD, professor of pharmacology and nutritional sciences, to study sex differences in lean and obese male and female mice using the advanced PamGene technology.

• Using this technology, Dr. Hinds was awarded a pilot grant from the Markey Cancer Center to study racial differences in prostate cancer.

Dr. Hinds said there are not many limitations in his Lab. He teaches his trainees to think outside the box and holds thought-provoking sessions to expand their minds so they will be ready for the next discovery.

For learners, the experience is inspiring them to step out of their comfort zones. Graduate student Evelyn Bates said Dr. Hinds’ lab has pushed her beyond data analysis and into newer aspects of science like cell culture, molecular biology, and drug design.

“Dr. Hinds really stresses the importance of mastering a lot of trades so that we are foundationally strong scientists when we leave,” Bates said.

Dr. Hinds’ work has been recognized at UK and beyond. He was named vice president for the state chapter of the American Physiological Society, was recently tenured, and was selected for 2022-2023 Faculty of the Year by the UK College of Medicine Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, which are true testaments to his strong research and teaching activities.

Bates can attest to this. After her experience in the Hinds Lab, she knows she can become a principal investigator of her own one day. She is in the process of submitting a predoctoral fellowship, along with two other graduate students in the Hinds Lab, Wang-Hsin Lee (John) and Genesee Martinez.

All four of the graduate students in the Hinds Lab were selected for international research awards from the American Physiological Society meeting in Long Beach, Calif., in April. Bates and Martinez were also selected for a specialized session on “Hot Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism” at the conference.

“Before I met Dr. Hinds, I wasn’t sure if I was cut out for academia,” Bates said. “He really just believed in me from the beginning that I could do it. He has built me up to the point where I think, just with how much I’ve been able to learn in the last year, I could really have a successful career.”

Research reported in this publication was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under Award Numbers R01DK121797, R01DK112034, and R01DK121748, the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number R01DA058933, and the National Cancer Institute of the National Institutes of Health under Award Number P30CA177558. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Arts Medicine IN

Art and medicine may appear to be separate fields, but for many physicians and researchers, art helps them build deeper connections to patients and enriches their lives, which even translates into their careers.

At the UK College of Medicine, many faculty, staff, and trainees find that the two fields complement each other.

From ballet to medical school, student loves a good challenge

First-year medical student Chloe Obert is disciplined. She enjoys structure and does not shy away from a challenge. It is why becoming a doctor was a natural career path.

But Obert’s road to medicine was nontraditional. When searching for the right undergraduate degree, she felt called to another passion – ballet.

Obert earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in ballet performance from Butler University. It is not the typical degree program –like biology, neuroscience, or biomedical science – pursued by the majority of her peers in the University of Kentucky College of Medicine Class of 2027.

Then again, ballet provided Obert the structure that helped her thrive.

“I really liked the aspect where you are trying to improve upon what you were able to put forth the day before. You’re really not competing with other people so much in ballet,” Obert said. “It’s really a competition with yourself and striving to keep that motivation and keep improving even if you’re injured or things get difficult.”

Obert started ballet at 3 years old, initially as a chance to hang out with her best friend. Over time, her friends lost interest, but Obert stuck with it.

She practiced up to 35 hours per week. After undergraduate training, she even spent time with a professional ballet company in Nashville, Tenn. Then, more quickly than she could have anticipated, she suffered a career-ending injury to her back, retiring at 23 years old.

“As a career, ballet comes with an expiration date,” Obert said. Performing ballet, she said, can be physically taxing, and many opt to teach or choreograph after a certain number of years invested in the intense routine.

Her injury prompted her to begin thinking about her other dream, the dream to pursue medical school. Ballet may have been sidelined, but she saw medicine as a career that could provide lasting fulfillment.

She moved back to Lexington, Ky., in 2015 and started taking prerequisite classes. By the summer of 2023, she was enrolled at the UK College of Medicine.

Obert said she is excited to incorporate her arts background into her next career venture, but she misses ballet. “I did it for 20 years in total. It was a really nice outlet for artistic and emotional expression,” she said.

But medical school is already providing her with the challenge she needs, along with a different perspective.

Photography helps UK physicians embrace curiosity

When Thitinart Sithisarn, MD, PhD, is not taking care of babies in Kentucky Children’s Hospital (KCH) or teaching future physicians at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, she can be found out in nature hiking, canoeing, or walking trails across the Commonwealth.

And she always has her camera in hand.

Dr. Sithisarn, a KCH physician, had an interest in photography at a young age. She found it similar to medicine, a combination of art and science that allowed her to seize the moment.

During residency training, thanks to her neonatology mentor who was an avid photographer, she gained the motivation to pursue what she loved. Today, she spends some of her free time taking photographs, whether she is exploring Kentucky, on vacation outside the state, or even in her own backyard. So does Leo Yenwongfai, MD, chief resident in the department of pathology and laboratory medicine. His late father instilled within him to “never stop being curious.” Keeping his father’s words of wisdom close to his heart, Dr. Yenwongfai began teaching himself photography skills over time.

Both Dr. Sithisarn and Dr. Yenwongfai have provided their photos for UK HealthCare patients to enjoy.

Dr. Sithisarn recently gifted KCH some of her photographs for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The pictures now hang in the hallways, showcasing Kentucky’s beauty to her colleagues, patients, and their families.

Through UK Arts in HealthCare, the group that installs art across the UK hospitals and clinics, Dr. Yenwongfai had his photography displayed in the Kentucky Clinic. His artwork honors his friend, Sandra Marlowe, who was diagnosed with Bulbar ALS.

“Ultimately, all I want to pass on to people with my work — whether that is with my photographic art or with pathology — is to slow down and look at the world around you, it can be so soothing,” Yenwongfai said.

For BIRCWH scholar, painting helps relieve stress

JungHee Kang, PhD, MPH, is a postdoctoral scholar at the College of Nursing. She is supported by the Building Interdisciplinary Research in Women’s Health (BIRCWH) program that is led by Thomas Curry, PhD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the UK College of Medicine.

She started learning to paint halfway through her graduate program as a way to relieve stress.

“Conducting research studies to improve patients’ health outcomes is fulfilling and satisfactory, but it can also be stressful,” Dr. Kang said. “Despite being a novice in oriental painting, I believe that engaging in art, whether it’s painting, ceramic art, or playing a musical instrument, along with participating in physical activities, is an effective way to relieve stress

Dr. Kang has shared her paintings with her research team, and she even earned second place in the University of Kentucky’s “Art of Covid” exhibit honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) employees.

New UK Health Education Building will bear name of esteemed Medicine alumnus

The University of Kentucky Board of Trustees has approved the naming of UK’s new Health Education Building as the “Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building.”

Last fall, a ceremonial groundbreaking was held to mark progress on what will be the largest academic building in the history of the University.

At over 500,000 square feet, the new Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building will house programs in the colleges of Medicine, Public Health, Health Sciences and Nursing as well as the Center for Interprofessional and Community Health Education.

As an alumnus, Dr. Rankin has devoted himself to the UK College of Medicine, its success, and the success of its learners. He has been an invaluable member of the UK Medical Alumni Association, past president of the UK Medical Alumni Association and associated board, chair of the Dean’s

Advisory Council, and volunteer faculty in the UK College of Medicine Department of Family and Community Medicine. In addition, he has served many years on the College of Medicine scholarship and admissions committees.

The UK Board of Trustees previously accepted a gift commitment of $22 million from Dr. Rankin for scholarships in the College of Medicine and to support the construction of the building — which, when completed — will be the largest academic building in the history of UK.

“Dr. Rankin has left an indelible mark of healing and hope, not just on this University, but on the state of Kentucky,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “His influence will be felt by generations of students and the patients they later serve.”

This innovative, state-of-the-art building will feature technological advancements, modern aesthetics and a spacious environment conducive to learning, and serve as a hub for health education. It will provide an exceptional learning setting to prepare the next generation of health care leaders, health and rehabilitation practitioners, nurses, physicians, public health professionals, scientists, and more. The building will be located across University Drive from University Flats.

One of the greatest challenges facing the Commonwealth is the current and growing shortage of health care providers, including physicians, nurses, physician assistants, physical therapists, athletic trainers, medical laboratory scientists, speech language pathologists, audiologists, public health officials, and other health care professionals. These shortages are especially prominent in rural areas.

Addressing this health care workforce shortage is paramount to the mission of the University of Kentucky, and this facility will give the University an important means in solving this concerning issue.

*Story adapted from UK Now

The new Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building will enable:

The College of Medicine to grow its medical education program in Lexington from approximately 138 students per year to 200 students per year giving it an overall enrollment of more than 1,000 medical students, making it one of the largest medical schools in the country.

The College of Nursing to double enrollment by more than 350 students total per year in its traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Advanced BSN (ABSN) programs in order to address the statewide nursing shortage.

The College of Health Sciences to increase enrollment by 30% with more than 460 students across five professional programs including physical therapy, physician assistant studies, speech-language pathology, athletic training, and medical laboratory science, with additional new academic programs forthcoming.

The College of Public Health to increase enrollment by more than 30% by adding 350 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs.

The Center for Interprofessional and Community Health Education, which helps develop an effective, diverse, and collaborative health care workforce for Kentucky and beyond, to impact 50% more students annually who will be prepared to provide quality, team-based care as professionals.

Additionally, the conceptual design of the building will promote collaboration among the colleges and emphasize flexible, student-centric spaces.

Dr. Rankin has left an indelible mark of healing and hope, not just on this University,

but on the state of Kentucky”

- President Eli Capilouto

To learn more about the Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building please visit provost.uky.edu/heb

UK College of Medicine faculty bridge cross-college collaborations

An exciting aspect of the University of Kentucky’s new Health Education Building is that it will bring four colleges and one center together, under one roof, to embark on collaborative learning together. As we celebrate the ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Health Education Building, we also recognize major cross-college collaborations that happened this year.

“When I look at the landscape of Kentucky, I’m confronted with the evidence that this is a state with its own struggles and health disparities associated with tobacco use, particularly in Appalachian Kentucky,” said Seth Himelhoch, MD, chair of the UK College of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and principal investigator of the award. “While America has overall reduced its use of combustible tobacco, Appalachian Kentucky, in particular, has not moved along at the same pace.”

Historically, Kentucky has had high rates of tobacco use and continues to hold one of the highest smoking rates among adults — 19.6% in 2021 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

These team projects not only serve as catalysts for the advancement of clinical care, research, and training. They also foreshadow the possibilities ahead.

UK awarded $19 million to research tobacco regulation in Appalachia

The University of Kentucky will be home to a new research center focused on tobacco regulations in the Commonwealth named the Appalachian Tobacco Regulatory Science Team (AppalTRuST).

AppalTRuST is funded over five years with a $19 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) under the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Office of the Director of the NIH, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Tobacco Products (CTP). As part of an interagency partnership, the NIH and FDA award Tobacco Centers of Regulatory Science (TCORS) grants that support studies across topics like toxicity, addiction, health effects, and marketing.

The goal of AppalTRuST is to investigate the impact of federal regulatory policies in rural communities through collaboration, education, and pioneering regulatory scientific research.

“It seems very important to me that when the federal government is going to evaluate regulations for tobacco use it should certainly be doing so in a part of the country where decreasing combustible tobacco use is likely to lead to long-term health benefits including reductions in cancer and cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Himelhoch.

Co-directing AppalTRuST are Ellen J. Hahn, PhD, the Marcia A. Dake Endowed Professor in the College of Nursing, the director of the Bridging Research Efforts and Advocacy Toward Healthy Environments (BREATHE), and Teresa M. Waters, PhD, professor and dean of public health at Augusta University, and formerly professor and chair of health management and policy in the UK College of Public Health.

Drs. Himelhoch, Hahn, and Waters are guiding a team of researchers across the colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Education, and Arts and Sciences as well as the Markey Cancer Center and BREATHE, who all work in the space of tobacco regulation, tobacco policy, and tobacco prevention and cessation.

The AppalTRUST group includes a team of faculty from the colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Education, and Arts and Sciences, as well as Markey Cancer Center and BREATHE.

Interdisciplinary team comes together to advance palliative care

An interdisciplinary team of faculty at the University of Kentucky hopes to advance palliative care, an important yet underserved component of health care, to improve the quality of life for Kentucky patients and beyond.

Generally, palliative care is “an extra layer of support” for any stage of illness and any age of a person who is experiencing a life-threatening condition. These illnesses can include cancer, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney failure, and other illnesses that seriously impact the quality of life.

“We’re really trying to integrate palliative care from diagnosis on,” said Abigail Latimer, PhD, MSW, LCSW. “Anytime someone is diagnosed with a serious illness, they can hopefully receive palliative care.”

Dr. Latimer is an assistant professor in the College of Nursing, with a dual appointment as an outpatient palliative social worker with Markey Cancer Center. The team also includes Jim Ballard, EdD, director for interprofessional and community health education; Jessica McFarlin, MD, division chief of palliative and supportive care; Laurie McLouth, PhD, assistant professor of behavioral science in the College of Medicine, Center for Health Equity Transformation (CHET), and Markey Cancer Center; and Elizabeth Rhodus, PhD, assistant professor of behavioral science in the College of Medicine and Sanders-Brown Center on Aging.

Visit medicine.uky.edu/news to learn more and keep up with UK College of Medicine happenings.

Dr. McLouth said that in cancer, especially cancers like advanced lung cancer, the evidence is clear – delivering palliative care alongside and early into cancer treatment improves patient quality of life. “Good palliative care is good health care,” Dr. McLouth said. “It is now guidelinerecommended. We need to continue to grow the evidence base for integrating palliative care into routine care of other illnesses, which is why it is so important to increase capacity for rigorous, interdisciplinary palliative care research.”

Through their combined expertise, the team will forge collaborations with new clinicians and researchers, apply for grant funding, and conduct research. They also want to offer additional support to faculty and staff through evidencebased trainings and career development opportunities.

All five faculty share an ultimate goal of putting new findings into practice to improve patient-centered outcomes.

From left to right: Abigail Latimer, PhD, MSW, LCSW; Laurie McLouth, PhD; Elizabeth Rhodus, PhD; and Jim Ballard, EdD. (Not pictured: Jessica McFarlin, MD)

The Legacy He Leaves Behind:

REMEMBERING DR. CARL WATSON

Carl Watson, MD, made history as the first Black graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. He earned his doctorate in 1964 as a member of the college’s first graduating class, and his impact in medicine continued through a decades-long career as an obstetrician and gynecologist.

We are deeply saddened to share that Dr. Watson died on Oct. 19, 2023, at the age of 85, after a long illness. The UK College of Medicine is grateful for his many contributions to education and health care – and for the legacy he leaves behind.

Dr. Watson attended segregated schools while growing up in Lexington Ky. Both of his parents were collegeeducated and encouraged his lifelong

love of learning. Witnessing their academic achievements, Dr. Watson was inspired to succeed and steadfast in his commitment to earning a higher education. He was a tenacious learner throughout his life, gaining expertise in hobbies such as piano, classical music, architecture, and electronic circuitry, to name a few.

Dr. Watson received an undergraduate scholarship to attend Howard University, a historically Black college in Washington, D.C., colloquially referred to as the “Black Harvard” at the time. He originally planned to study engineering or architecture but found that he enjoyed the biological sciences classes better than the physical sciences.

“The highest form of biological science is the human body— that’s why I got interested in medicine,” said Dr. Watson in a 2020 interview.

To afford his pursuit of medical school, he transferred from Howard, after two years, to the University of Kentucky where he received his Bachelor of Science in 1959. The following year, Dr. Watson joined the inaugural class of the UK College of Medicine alongside 31 other aspiring physicians.

His medical education was underwritten by a Sloan Foundation Fellowship administered by Franklin McLean, MD, the founder of National Medical Fellowships. Dr. Watson served as class vice president during his medical school tenure and, during his sophomore year, received an additional scholarship from the Institute of Study of Man Foreign Fellowship to Jamaica.

While studying abroad, he served under the guidance of Edward Kass, MD, from Harvard University, who was researching asymptomatic bacteriuria in pregnant women at Jamaica’s Center for Disease Control. Dr. Kass also operated a clinic during the daytime and encouraged Dr. Watson to take patients’ vital signs, perform limited examinations, and venipuncture at the small clinic.

Dr. Watson also visited Hansen House, a leprosarium that treated patients of all ages, during his time in Jamaica. Though a cure has since been developed, leprosy (then referred to as Hansen’s disease) was quite rare in 1962, with less than one percent of U.S. physicians having seen a case outside of textbooks.

Dr. Watson’s longtime mentors – Dr. McLean; Richard Allen, MD; and John Greene, MD – understood the importance of increasing the number of African-American doctors and often encouraged Dr. Watson to take the lead when working with patients.

The legacy Dr. Watson leaves behind is tremendous. May we all be inspired by his passion for learning, commitment to compassionate care, and generous spirit.

Following his graduation, Dr. Watson remained at the University, completing his residency and internship in gynecology and obstetrics under the continued mentorship of Dr. Greene, UK College of Medicine’s first obstetrics and gynecology chair.

Dr. Watson joined the United States Air Force during college, but its Berry Plan, a Vietnam-era program that allowed physicians to defer drafting until they had completed their medical training, allowed him to complete his residency and gain rank simultaneously. He served as a military physician for two years during the Vietnam War and ultimately ascended to the rank of captain before leaving the military.

Dr. Watson and his family settled in Oakland, Calif., where he practiced as an OB-GYN for over 40 years. Known among his colleagues for taking difficult cases and achieving positive outcomes, Dr. Watson was regarded as a meticulous and exact surgeon. He was described as a master at explaining difficult concepts and ideas in easy-to-understand terms, which brought kindness and reassurance to thousands of patients over the years.

In retirement, Dr. Watson authored a collection of essays, “Short Stories for Tall Tales”, demonstrating his deep knowledge of varied topics, such as opera, fox hunting, medicine, fine dining, and more.

In recent years, the Dr. and Mrs. Carl and Nanine Watson Diversity Scholarship was established, signifying the history Dr. Watson made while paving the way for future doctors. The scholarship will aim to remove financial barriers for physicians in training and help make the medical field representative of the country’s rich diversity.

Dr. Watson is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nanine Neal Watson, his daughters, Camille Watson McGill and Remi Watson Adams, and four grandchildren, three of whom are currently attending college, with the youngest set to begin next year.

The legacy Dr. Watson leaves behind is tremendous. May we all be inspired by his passion for learning, commitment to compassionate care, and generous spirit.

To contribute to the Watson family’s scholarship fund, contact Kristin.Shattuck@uky.edu.

UK College of Medicine legacies honored through scholarship funds

DR. ALFRED WINER

With much grief, we share that scientist and educator, Alfred Dennis Winer, PhD, passed away on Nov. 16, 2023, at the age of 97, surrounded by loved ones.

A scholarship has been established in the department of molecular and cellular biochemistry in honor of Dr. Winer.

Contributions to the scholarship can be made online by scanning the QR code below.

Dr. Winer joined the University of Kentucky in 1960 as a founding faculty member of the College of Medicine, serving as professor in the department of biochemistry for more than three decades.

Over the years, he became a favorite professor to hundreds of medical students, earning the University award for Best Teacher in 1979. As a scientist, Dr. Winer’s research focus was primarily in experimental medicine and biology, a domain in which he made many contributions to our understanding of the complex enzyme reactions occurring in the human body.

Before his tenure at the UK College of Medicine, Dr. Winer earned advanced degrees from Purdue, Northeastern, Duke, and Harvard Universities. He also served as first lieutenant in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953 in Korea and later as the director of biochemistry at Walter Reed Hospital. While receiving his doctorate in biochemistry from Harvard, he met his wife of over 70 years.

Dr. Winer is survived by his wife, Miroslava “Billy” Nikitovitch-Winer, PhD, who joined the UK College of Medicine in 1960 alongside her husband, and later served as chair of the anatomy and neurobiology department for several years. Dr. Winer is also survived by two children, Nick and Alexandra, and four grandchildren.

He will be dearly missed and always celebrated for the lasting legacies he leaves behind.

DR. MIKE PRESLEY

Michael William Presley, MD, was a Kentucky native who embodied servant leadership through his role as an emergency medicine physician. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Presley was a source of fortitude and stability for hundreds of emergency physicians and APPs.

He graduated from the UK College of Medicine in 2002 and continued his training at the University of Louisville Emergency Medicine Department. He served as the regional medical director of emergency medicine for Team Health from 2005 to 2015 where he oversaw the physicians and APPs for over 20 emergency departments (EDs) servicing over 400,000 patients each year. In December 2015, Mike became the founding chief executive officer of Emergency Medicine for Sound Physicians. During his six years there, he led Sound’s emergency medicine growth from zero to over 1.5 million patient visits in 15 states.

Dr. Presley was a successful and caring doctor, a loving and devoted husband, a supportive and funny dad, and a huge UK fan. He was a man of faith who had a positive impact on so many.

A scholarship honoring Dr. Presley is intended to provide financial support to a deserving student and to extend a great legacy by inspiring the values and priorities aligned with his well-lived life.

For information on how you can contribute, please email Tricia.Potts@uky.edu.

A scholarship honoring Dr. Presley is intended to provide financial support to a deserving student and to extend a great legacy by inspiring the values and priorities aligned with his well-lived life.

The following list includes faculty and staff who assumed new leadership positions in 2023.

Sandra Beck, MD ASSISTANT DEAN FOR PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT, GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION

John Gensel, PhD DIRECTOR, SPINAL CORD AND BRAIN INJURY RESEARCH CENTER

Ginny Gottschalk, MD CHAIR, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY MEDICINE

Lauren Greathouse ASSISTANT DEAN FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND STRATEGY

Craig Rush, PhD ASSISTANT DEAN FOR FACULTY AFFAIRS

Abbigail Tissot, PhD, MS ASSISTANT DEAN FOR STUDENTS, NORTHERN KENTUCKY CAMPUS

Eddy Yang, MD, PhD CHAIR, RADIATION MEDICINE

Holly Danneman, MD ASSOCIATE DEAN, NORTHERN KENTUCKY CAMPUS

Charles Griffith, MD, MSPH DEAN, UK COLLEGE OF MEDICINE

Deanna Morris, PhD ASSISTANT DEAN FOR STUDENTS, BOWLING GREEN CAMPUS

Janna Neltner, MD ASSISTANT DEAN FOR ACCREDITATION, GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION

Matthew Bush, MD, PhD, MBA CHAIR, OTOLARYNGOLOGY –HEAD AND NECK SURGERY

Todd R. Cheever, MD DIVISION CHIEF, ACADEMIC MEDICAL EDUCATION

Na’Tasha Evans, PhD, MEd VICE DEAN FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Simon Fisher, MD, PhD DIRECTOR, BARNSTABLE BROWN DIABETES CENTER

Marcia Fantoni, MD, PhD, MS ASSISTANT DEAN FOR CURRICULUM INTEGRATION, BOWLING GREEN CAMPUS

Michelle Lineberry, EdD ASSOCIATE DEAN FOR STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESS, ACADEMIC MEDICAL EDUCATION

CREDITS

UK Medicine magazine is a publication of the UK College of Medicine.

For more information, write: University of Kentucky College of Medicine

give

“The University of Kentucky Hospital is a great regional facility that takes care of a large percentage of our city’s population and surrounding counties. A hospital is one of the most important assets of a community, and with UK being a teaching hospital, they are reinvesting in the next generation of health care providers for our community. We continue to donate to children’s mental health programs and the Markey Cancer Center because mental health and cancer are huge problems that need to be addressed for the health and safety of our community. I’ve also had life-saving trauma care at UK Hospital and was fortunate enough to have the resources at hand that saved my life, and I want to continue to make sure those resources are available.”

Greg Goodman and Family, Mt. Brilliant Farm

why I

why I give

“The wood products industry in Kentucky started our Log a Load for Kids Program to partner with the University of Kentucky to address the need to provide better health care for our children throughout the state. There are a wide range of forestry interests, wood processing facilities, and loggers working in nearly every county in Kentucky. We realize the importance of improved health care to meet the needs of a rural state. We feel strongly that all children in the Commonwealth should have access to quality health care. We are proud of our partnership with University of Kentucky HealthCare to assist with care and healing for our most valuable resource - our children.”

Bob Bauer, Executive Director, Kentucky Forest Industries Association

KFIA sponsors the Kentucky Log a Load for Kids Program that donates all proceeds to the Kentucky Children’s Hospital.

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Editor: Audrey Kirby, Communications Director, Email: Audrey.Kirby@uky.edu | Phone: 859-323-1143

Photography: Jorge Castorena, Charla Hamilton, Audrey Kirby, Lily Wilder, UK College of Medicine Communications; Arden Barnes and Mark Cornelison, UK Photo; Jeremy Blackburn, UK Research Communications; Mark Mahan Photography

Editorial: Charla Hamilton, Audrey Kirby, UK College of Medicine Communications; Allison Perry, Kristi Willett, UK Now; Lindsay Travis, UK Research Communications

Design: Jordan Gieselman, UK College of Medicine Communications

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