April 30 Deadline for Health Leadership Institute Applications 

The UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) is ready to welcome a new cohort of emerging leaders to the institute: applications for the fourth cohort are due April 30. Interested candidates should complete their application, essay, and submit a letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal. The institute is seeking candidates who meet the following criteria:      

• Currently employed by any UVA Health entity.    
• Demonstrated exceptional leadership potential.    
• Invested in their career at UVA Health.    
• Shown a strong commitment to our ASPIRE values.    

Selected candidates will be notified in May and monthly cohort sessions will begin in October. Additional details about the HLI curriculum, application process, and more are available in the FAQs on Connect and in the information session Zoom recording (passcode: 8J@+c1pe). 

Operations 

Construction Impact: South Tower 

Through Friday, April 25 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | In preparation for finishing floors 6-8 in the South Tower, a temporary mockup will be constructed in the 8 South shell space. Light construction may cause minor noise and vibration to adjacent areas in the South and East Towers. Service Elevator 33 will be isolated for the transportation of construction materials to the shell space. If you believe this construction is impacting your work, please contact Brian Williams. 

Maintenance on Safety Data Sheet  

Sunday, April 27 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Security updates to UVA’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) database provider may affect its accessibility for approximately six hours. Users attempting to access the SDS database will experience intermittent interruption in service during this period. During the downtime, team members should use an internet search engine (like Google) to search for a specific SDS. For example, if there is a problem with an infant heel warmer, search for "infant heel warmer safety data sheet." The SDS would show what actions should be taken to contain a spill or address an exposure. Team members also should refer to the Red Book in their areas. 

Epic May Upgrade: What You Need to Know 

Wednesday, May 21 | The Health Information Technology (HIT) team will implement the next Epic Upgrade across all UVA Health entities on May 21. This routine upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the electronic health record (EHR) experience for our care teams and patients. Epic releases comprehensive updates that incorporate team member feedback to improve functionality, optimize workflows, and introduce new features. These upgrades help ensure our system remains efficient, secure, and aligned with the evolving needs of care delivery. To learn more about the top five changes in this upgrade, visit Connect. 

Patient Star Ratings and Comments Now Published on External Websites 

Following the successful implementation of star ratings and comment reviews on more than 900 uvahealth.com ambulatory provider profiles, these same ratings and reviews are being published on third-party websites such as WebMD as of April 15. Review publishing helps us reach the consumers who visit these popular sites, and the expanded digital presence will improve our position in organic search results so that more patients can find care at UVA Health. Review publishing also helps patients become more familiar with the exceptional care provided by UVA Health providers. UVA Health star ratings and comments will be published on nine, third-party websites: Healthgrades, Healthline, MedicalNewsToday, Sharecare, DocSpot, RateMDs, Vitals, WebMD, and Wellness. For more about the program, visit the Patient Experience intranet site. 

New Wheelchair Clinic Open for Referrals 

UVA Health Adult Wheelchair Care | 545 Ray C. Hunt Dr., Suite 3200 | 434.243.3100 | Adult Wheelchair Care is now accepting both internal and outside referrals for patients to be seen at its Fontaine clinic. This new clinic offers expert evaluations by an occupational therapist to determine the most appropriate wheelchair and seating solutions for patients aged 18 and older.  

The clinic team conducts a detailed evaluation of the patient’s needs to recommend appropriate equipment, and works with suppliers to deliver, test, and train the patient on proper use and maintenance, and provide education on positioning and safety. It is the only specialty therapy clinic in our area solely dedicated to wheelchair and seating solutions for adults, addressing a vital care gap in the region. To refer a patient, in Epic create an Ambulatory Referral to Adult Occupational Therapy and select the UVA Adult Wheelchair Care location. 

Language Interpretation Services at UVA Health 

In support of our mission to provide excellent patient care, UVA Health offers professional language interpretation services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients and their families. In-person and contracted interpreters are available to ensure patients can fully understand their care and make informed decisions. As required by federal law and University Medical Center Policy 0156, UVA Health must offer these services at no cost and document them in Epic when provided or declined. Effective communication is essential for patient safety, trust, and positive health outcomes.  

Please remember that only certified interpreters may provide language interpretation — team members who speak a second language are not permitted to interpret — and family, friends, and minor children should not serve as interpreters. Team members interested in becoming certified medical language interpreters are encouraged to contact the Language Services Department at RLangServices@UVAHealth.org. 

Leadership 

Amy Moreno, MD, Appointed System Medical Director for Clinical Documentation Integrity and Utilization Management  

In this important, cross-health system, inaugural role, Amy Moreno, MD, will lead efforts to ensure accurate and compliant clinical documentation that reflects the complexity and acuity of care delivered. She will work closely with medical staff and administrative leaders to align documentation practices with regulatory guidelines and coding requirements, while also optimizing protocols for length of stay, appropriate level of care determinations, and efficient use of hospital resources. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Moreno when she arrives on June 2. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Zoom | Take a 10-minute break to refresh your mind and body with this eight-week series. These quick, engaging, virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Learn more and see the full schedule. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management 

This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. All sessions are noon-1 p.m. Register. 

• Thursday, April 24 | Move: Move More, Weigh Less — How Exercise Combats Obesity 
• Thursday, May 8 | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds: The Role of an Emergency Imaging Section in Academic Medicine 

Thursday, Apr. 24 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Zoom | UVA Radiology's next installment of its Grand Rounds Series features speaker Jamlik-Omari Johnson, MD, who serves as Chair of Radiology at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. Topics include the history of emergency and trauma imaging (ETI), the role of ETI in patient care, and opportunities for ETI to participate in mission-aligned academic activities. Details. 

Donate Blood in Celebration of Medical Lab Week 

Friday, April 25 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of Medical Lab Week (April 20-26) please consider donating blood. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: when you donate in April, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card. Plus, through April 30, you’ll get an exclusive American Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Details. 

Clinical Instructor Workshop  

Claude Moore Nursing Education Building | A three-day, in-person workshop for nurses who have earned at least a BSN and are interested in teaching the next generation of nursing students. Learn more and register. 

• Wednesday, April 30 | 3-5 p.m. 
• Thursday, May 1 | 8 a.m.-5:15 p.m. 
• Friday, May 2 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Save the Date: UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations: 

• Sunday, May 11 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 
• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m. 
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Appreciation 

Leading the Way 

This Earth Month, we celebrate our shared responsibility to create a healthier planet — for our patients, communities, and future generations. We’ve recently earned The Joint Commission Sustainable Healthcare Certification. (Pictured at right: Matthew Meyer, MD; Hannah Hawthorne; Tracey Hoke, MD; Jonathan Perlin, MD, President and CEO, The Joint Commission.) 

Initiatives such as our partnership with Stryker help us save money while reducing waste — as Supply Chain works with our nursing team and other frontline workers to collect and reprocess single-use devices. Our Ambulatory Pharmacy team has eliminated more than 1.8 million printed pages each year by going digital. New curbside recyclable cold-chain packaging at our pharmacy locations is another step forward. Our UVA Health volunteers also make a difference. 

The UVA Health Sustainability Committee plays a big part in supporting these initiatives, policies, and organizing our submission for TJC Sustainable Healthcare Certification. It’s led by a dedicated UVA Health and UVA group including Co-chairs Kevin Fox, Director of Facilities Planning and Capital Development, and Matthew Meyer, MD, our first Medical Director of Sustainability. (Pictured at right: Hannah Hawthorne; Jonathan Perlin, MD; and Erika Herz.) 

“I’m so proud of how this team leads the way on sustainability,” says UVA Health University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton, MBA, PharmD, FACHE. Learn why in her latest Vision and Voice blog. 

And read more from Sustainability Fellow Anna Jett in the latest UVA Sustainability Blog. 

Previous Updates

Monday, April 21

Replay: AI in Healthcare Symposium 

The UVA Health Leadership Institute, UVA Darden School of Business, and UVA School of Data Science recently hosted an engaging evening exploring the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, featuring insights from industry leaders and peers.  

Speakers included Girish Nadkarni, MD, Chair, Windreich Department of AI and Human Health at Mount Sinai, and a panel of experts, including moderator Scott Beardsley, EdD, Dean, Darden School of Business; Philip Bourne, PhD, Dean, UVA School of Data Science; Scott Just, MD, CEO, UVA Physicians Group; Meg Keeley, MD, Senior Associate Dean, UVA School of Medicine; and Vivian Riefberg, MBA, Professor of Practice, Darden School of Business. See photos and watch a replay of the event on Connect. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: South Tower 

Through Friday, April 25 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | In preparation for finishing floors 6-8 in the South Tower, a temporary mockup will be constructed in the 8 South shell space. Light construction may cause minor noise and vibration to adjacent areas in the South and East Towers. Service Elevator 33 will be isolated for the transportation of construction materials to the shell space. If you believe this construction is impacting your work, please contact Brian Williams. 

University Hospital: 2M Roof Replacement Project 

Through Thursday, May 1 | 3-6 a.m. | To support University Hospital’s 2M roof replacement project, a boom truck will block one lane of traffic on Lee Street every two days. Flaggers will be on-site to assist with traffic. 

Maintenance on Safety Data Sheet 

Sunday, April 27 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | Security updates to UVA’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) database provider may affect its accessibility for approximately six hours. Users attempting to access the SDS database will experience intermittent interruption in service during this period. During the downtime, team members should use an internet search engine (like Google) to search for a specific SDS. For example, if there is a problem with an infant heel warmer, search for "infant heel warmer safety data sheet." The SDS would show what actions should be taken to contain a spill or address an exposure. Team members also should refer to the Red Book in their areas. 

Language Interpretation Services at UVA Health 

In support of our mission to provide excellent patient care, UVA Health offers professional language interpretation services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients and their families. In-person and contracted interpreters are available to ensure patients can fully understand their care and make informed decisions. As required by federal law and University Medical Center Policy 0156, UVA Health must offer these services at no cost and document them in Epic when provided or declined. Effective communication is essential for patient safety, trust, and positive health outcomes. 

Please remember that only certified interpreters may provide language interpretation — team members who speak a second language are not permitted to interpret — and family, friends, and minor children should not serve as interpreters. Team members interested in becoming certified medical language interpreters are encouraged to contact the Language Services Department at RLangServices@UVAHealth.org. 

Leadership 

Watch the Health Leadership Institute Info Session Recording 

Zoom Recording | Passcode: 8J@+c1pe | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, watch the recording of the April 10 information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session features first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, as well as questions from team members like you.  
 
When you’re ready to apply, submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. You can also learn more on Connect. 

Happenings 

One Healthcare Ecochallenge 

April 2025 | Join the One Healthcare Ecochallenge and show how UVA Health promotes health, sustainability, and community well-being. All clinicians, staff, and students are welcome to join and begin taking actions big or small. Example actions. Learn more. 

Earth Month Events 

April 2025 | Join this month-long celebration of our shared planet. Planned events include clothing swaps, Corner clean-ups, talks, garden tours, eco-fair, and more. See the full list of events. Learn more about UVA Sustainability. 

Donate Blood in Celebration of Medical Lab Week 

Tuesday, April 22, and Friday, April 25 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of Medical Lab Week (April 20-26) please consider donating blood. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: when you donate in April, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card. Plus, through April 30, you’ll get an exclusive American Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Details. 

UVA Research Computing Exhibition 

Wednesday, April 23 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Newcomb Hall Ballroom | This exhibition showcases the incredible research happening across UVA. Whether you are interested in sharing your research or discovering what others are working on, this exhibition offers the opportunity to see and discuss research posters, hear lightning talks from UVA faculty, learn about resources for research, explore diverse research methods, find potential collaborators, and connect with the broader research community. Free food and beverages, Details. 

Medical Center Hour | Hope and Help: America's Overdose Crisis 

Wednesday, April 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Learning Studio and Zoom | Speaker Beth Macy, author of "Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company That Addicted America,” is a Virginia-based journalist who writes about outsiders and underdogs. Details. 

Advancing Discoveries and Driving Innovation 

Wednesday, April 23 | 5-7 p.m. | The Link Lab | This event is about sparking new ideas, building connections, and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations. Attendees will share a one-minute elevator pitch about their research, so it's a great opportunity to hear what researchers are working on across Grounds. Register. 

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds: The Role of an Emergency Imaging Section in Academic Medicine 

Thursday, Apr. 24 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Zoom | UVA Radiology's next installment of its Grand Rounds Series features speaker Jamlik-Omari Johnson, MD, who serves as Chair of Radiology at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. Topics include the history of emergency and trauma imaging (ETI), the role of ETI in patient care, and opportunities for ETI to participate in mission-aligned academic activities. Details. 

Wellness Book Club 

Starts Friday, April 25 | Zoom | Details | Connect with fellow book lovers monthly via Zoom to explore and discuss wellness-related books in a warm and welcoming environment. “Atomic Habits” is the first book the group will read. Questions? Contact Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health. 

Film Screening: 'Dottie' 

Screening of the award-winning short film "Dottie," which focuses on dementia and empathy. A post-panel discussion will be held with social and behavioral scholar Ishan Williams, PhD, FGSA, Professor of Nursing; filmmaker C. Robin Maricotte of Boston-based Articine; and Tim Cunningham, DrPH, RN, FAAN, adjunct Associate Professor at Emory University School of Nursing. Part of the Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series and sponsored by the Haney Conference for Compassionate End-of-Life Care. Details.  

• Tuesday, April 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium, McKim Hall  
• Tuesday, April 29 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on:  

• Wednesday, April 30 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Tuesday, May 13 | 8-11 a.m. 
• Wednesday, May 14 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Wednesday, May 21 | noon-3 p.m. 
• Monday, May 26 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Alumni Info Session: What Can a Grad Nursing Degree Do for You? 

Wednesday, April 30 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Zoom | UVA School of Nursing alumni: Do you want to be able to prescribe medication and order tests? Open and operate your own clinical practice? Mentor and manage on-unit nurses? Teach the next generation of RNs? Advocate for change as a nurse scientist? No matter what your goals are, UVA School of Nursing has a program to suit you, the time you have, your family and work situation, and your financial needs. Details and registration. 

Free Skin Cancer Screening 

Saturday, May 3 | 8 a.m.-noon | UVA Health Primary Care Center Dermatology Clinic | Frequently in the sun? Have a mole that’s changed shape, size, or color? Get a free skin cancer screening by a UVA Health dermatologist and learn how to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer. Bring a baseball cap or visor to exchange for a new sun hat, while supplies last. Free parking is available in the 11th Street Garage. Sign up by calling 800.223.9173. 

UVA Health Orthopedics Community Event 

Saturday, May 3 | 9 a.m.-noon | UVA Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | Join the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery for this free, family friendly community event. Talk with providers and learn more about the services orthopedics offers, including the seven clinics, physical therapy, walk-in injury care, imaging, and more. Join a mediation session led by Joshua Li, MD, PhD, followed by four provider talks on common orthopedic issues. Kids can take a unique tour of the operating room and explore some of the tools that surgeons use. Plus, enjoy face painting, games, crafts, and photos with UVA cheerleaders. Free donuts and coffee will be available from The Donut Kitchen. The access registration desk will be open for patients to schedule appointments and assist in signing up for MyChart. 

Teddy Bear Clinic and Health Education Fair 

Saturday, May 3 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Boys & Girls Club, 195 Lambs Lane | Join our UVA Health Children’s team for this fun and informative fair! Free and open to all families. Teddy bear clinics are a fun way to help kids feel less scared at the doctor’s office and hospital, and learn more about staying healthy. The first 100 kids to arrive will get free teddy bears, and our pediatricians will give them a check-up before they go to their new homes. Enjoy: 

• Free books for kids to take home. 
• Performances from the Virginia Dance Team. 
• Meeting CavMan from noon-1 p.m. 
• Food from the Chimm food truck, free for the first 100 attendees and then available for purchase. 
• Talks from our pediatricians on screen time and asthma. 

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

May 6-12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:   

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file. 
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria 
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage 

2025 UVA Health Aortic Symposium 

Saturday, May 31 | 7 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center and Zoom | Register | This symposium brings together UVA Health’s dedicated experts in cardiovascular disease to share insights on current trends, challenges, and emerging therapies in vascular and endovascular surgery. If you are involved in the care of patients with aortic disease or are interested in the latest advancements in cardiovascular care, you are encouraged to join this informative day of engaging presentations and collaborative learning. Diagnosis and treatment paradigms for aortic and structural heart diseases, including medical, endovascular, surgical, and hybrid options will be presented. 

Appreciation  

UVA Medical Students Go the Distance for 42nd Annual 5K Benefiting Camp Holiday Trails 

The UVA Mulholland Society recently hosted the 42nd Annual School of Medicine 5K Benefiting Camp Holiday Trails. More than 100 runners from UVA School of Medicine and the broader Charlottesville community participated, raising nearly $2,000 in support.  

The event was hosted with the help of dozens of volunteers from the first-year class of UVA medical students and featured prizes generously donated by local Charlottesville businesses. Thank you to all of the runners, volunteers, and community partners that helped make the race a huge success! 

Since 1973, more than 10,000 kids have found fun and support during summers at Camp Holiday Trails, a camp for children with medical needs and their siblings. UVA School of Medicine’s partnership with Camp Holiday Trails has lasted decades and supports the amazing work that the camp does for families in our community. See more photos on Medicine in Motion. 

Friday, April 18

Donate Blood in Celebration of Medical Lab Week 

Tuesday, April 22, and Friday, April 25 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of Medical Lab Week (April 20-26) please consider donating blood. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: when you donate in April, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card. Plus, through April 30, you’ll get an exclusive American Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Details. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: South Tower 

Through Friday, April 25 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | In preparation for finishing floors 6-8 in the South Tower, a temporary mockup will be constructed in the 8 South shell space. Light construction may cause minor noise and vibration to adjacent areas in the South and East Towers. Service Elevator 33 will be isolated for the transportation of construction materials to the shell space. If you believe this construction is impacting your work, please contact Brian Williams. 

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Oncology Service Line Transitioning Away From Mandatory Masking 

Effective Monday, April 21 | The Oncology Service Line will transition away from mandatory masking in the following outpatient and inpatient cancer care locations, aligning with broader system-level policy changes around the end of flu and respiratory season. 

Outpatient Clinics and Infusion Centers 

• Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center 
• UVA Health Cancer Center Pantops (2nd and 3rd floors) 
• UVA Health Cancer Center Fishersville 
• Pantops Non-Oncology Infusion and Clinic 

Inpatient Unit 

• 3 South Acute Hematology-Oncology Unit 

Mandatory masking will be discontinued for all team members, patients, and visitors in the above locations. Patients and caregivers may request that providers and staff wear a mask during interactions within 6 feet, particularly in exam rooms or treatment areas. Teams will be expected to honor these requests to support a patient-centered environment. 

Continued Mandatory Masking in High-Risk Settings 

Due to the vulnerability of patients receiving intensive cellular therapies, mandatory masking will continue in the following areas: 

• 8 West Inpatient Cellular Therapy Unit 
• 2nd Floor Cellular Therapy Clinic at Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center 

These areas care for patients who are immunocompromised and at higher risk for severe complications from respiratory viruses, and continued masking is consistent with standard infection prevention protocols in similar transplant and cellular therapy programs. These patients will wear masks in all care areas and, similar to patients who request a provider/staff wear a mask, teams will wear a mask during interactions within 6 feet. 

New UVA Health Brand Site: Clearer Guidelines, Easier Access, More Functionality 

Check out UVA Health’s new and improved brand site, brand.uvahealth.com, designed to provide all team members with streamlined access to brand guidelines and standards, design templates, and digital assets. Team members will find it easier than ever to create professional, on-brand materials that reflect our commitment to excellence. The guidelines provide direction on how to apply our visual identity standards to ensure a clear, consistent, and compelling brand. Explore the new site and FAQs, and take advantage of these enhanced resources. 

Language Interpretation Services at UVA Health 

In support of our mission to provide excellent patient care, UVA Health offers professional language interpretation services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients and their families. In-person and contracted interpreters are available to ensure patients can fully understand their care and make informed decisions. As required by federal law and University Medical Center Policy 0156, UVA Health must offer these services at no cost and document them in Epic when provided or declined. Effective communication is essential for patient safety, trust, and positive health outcomes. 

Please remember that only certified interpreters may provide language interpretation — team members who speak a second language are not permitted to interpret — and family, friends, and minor children should not serve as interpreters. Team members interested in becoming certified medical language interpreters are encouraged to contact the Language Services Department at RLangServices@UVAHealth.org. 

Leadership 

Watch the Health Leadership Institute Info Session Recording 

Zoom Recording | Passcode: 8J@+c1pe | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, watch the recording of the April 10 information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session features first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, as well as questions from team members like you. 
 
When you’re ready to apply, submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. You can also learn more on Connect. 

University of Chicago Honors Dean Melina Kibbe With 2025 Alumni Award for Professional Achievement 

The University of Chicago has honored UVA School of Medicine Dean Melina Kibbe, MD, with a 2025 Alumni Award for Professional Achievement. The award recognizes Dean Kibbe’s outstanding contributions in the field of vascular surgery and her research to develop novel drug-eluting therapies for patients with vascular disease. Read more. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Mark T. Esser’s appointment as head of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology continues to receive strong coverage, including in Becker’s Hospital Review and The Daily Progress. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Renzo Figari Jordan participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing Parkinson’s disease. 
• Dr. Linda Martin is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new medication that helps surgeons spot lung cancer. 
• The UVA Health Transplant Center’s new outpatient clinic in Wytheville receives additional coverage across Virginia and on TV stations nationally. 
• A stuffed animal drive by Virginia motorcycle groups for UVA Health Children’s patients is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 
• Dr. Kim Penberthy talked with U.S. News & World Report about the difference between bipolar disorder and depression. 
• Amy Schmidt-Morris, Senior Advisor, Special Projects, is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the UVA Health Transplant Center’s Donate Life Month pinwheel garden. 

Research 

• Dr. Xuemei Huang talkes with WebMD about a new study showing Parkinson’s disease may soon outpace dementia cases. 
• Dr. Alexandra Kadl is featured on public radio stations across Virginia discussing a new long COVID trial at UVA Health. 
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with Medscape about new studies on the effectiveness of weight-loss medications and weight-loss surgery. 
• Dr. Natasha Sheybani is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a new $5.5 million grant for her research into using focused ultrasound to improve breast cancer treatment. 
• Dr. Christopher Kramer is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing a medication that could reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. 

Community 

• The open house for UVA Health’s Oak Lawn property is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 

Education 

• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured in MedPage Today and news outlets across Virginia discussing the dangers of too much vitamin A. 

Happenings 

Student Art at University Hospital 

Through November 2025 | The UVA Health Arts Committee and Albemarle County Schools Arts Programs are collaborating to bring student art to the health system. The art will hang in the lobby of University Hospital alongside our scheduled rotating fine artists. Stop by and check it out! 

Film Screening: ‘Stitching Strength’ 

Friday, April 18 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Light House Studio at Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. | This inspiring film delves into the dedicated efforts of neurologist and Director of the Duke ALS Clinic, Richard Bedlack, MD, PhD, MS, to instill hope and enhance the lives of individuals living with ALS — all while tirelessly searching for a cure. Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion featuring distinguished experts and advocates. Event flyer. Buy tickets. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | Details | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Two ways to participate:    

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. 
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim” T-shirt. 

UVA Research Computing Exhibition 

Wednesday, April 23 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Newcomb Hall Ballroom | This exhibition showcases the incredible research happening across UVA. Whether you are interested in sharing your research or discovering what others are working on, this exhibition offers the opportunity to see and discuss research posters, hear lightning talks from UVA faculty, learn about resources for research, explore diverse research methods, find potential collaborators, and connect with the broader research community. Free food and beverages, Details. 

Medical Center Hour | Hope and Help: America's Overdose Crisis 

Wednesday, April 23 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Learning Studio and Zoom | Speaker Beth Macy, author of "Dopesick: Dealers, Doctors, and the Drug Company That Addicted America,” is a Virginia-based journalist who writes about outsiders and underdogs. Details. 

Advancing Discoveries and Driving Innovation 

Wednesday, April 23 | 5-7 p.m. | The Link Lab | This event is about sparking new ideas, building connections, and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations. Attendees will share a one-minute elevator pitch about their research, so it's a great opportunity to hear what researchers are working on across Grounds. Register. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management 

This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. All sessions are noon-1 p.m. Register.      

• Thursday, April 24 | Move: Move More, Weigh Less — How Exercise Combats Obesity      
• Thursday, May 8 | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

UVA Radiology Grand Rounds: The Role of an Emergency Imaging Section in Academic Medicine 

Thursday, Apr. 24 | 12:30-1:15 p.m. | Zoom | UVA Radiology's next installment of its Grand Rounds Series features speaker Jamlik-Omari Johnson, MD, who serves as Chair of Radiology at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine. Topics include the history of emergency and trauma imaging (ETI), the role of ETI in patient care, and opportunities for ETI to participate in mission-aligned academic activities. Details. 

Wellness Book Club 

Starts Friday, April 25 | Zoom | Details | Connect with fellow book lovers monthly via Zoom to explore and discuss wellness-related books in a warm and welcoming environment. “Atomic Habits” is the first book the group will read. Questions? Contact Beth Frackleton, Occupational Health. 

Senior Health and Wellness Expo 

Saturday, May 3 | 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Brooks Family YMCA, 151 McIntire Park Dr. | A one-stop shop for those who are age 50 or older. This expo features resource tables with information on nutrition, transportation, disease management, social connection, care management, care for the caregiver, and money management. Education sessions about wills, safety, and long-term care will be available. Try a 15-minute fitness class while visiting. Sponsored by UVA Health. Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Appreciation 

‘Made Me Feel Special’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:                  

• “Dr. Druzgal and Dr. Belyah are amazing! So kind and compassionate. Dr. Showler also checked in with us during our stay and we love her! We also love Dr. Avi from our recent stay and Dr. Lacari and Dr. Burns from our previous stays. Both so kind! Dr. Spader and Dr. Grabb are amazing, and Amanda Hendrix has always been in touch and checking in with us as well. We can't say enough about the love we feel from staff all over UVA Health!” 
• “I would tell everyone to try UVA Health. I've never felt so safe, cared for, listened to, but most of all, Dr. Cantrell and her staff made me feel special. Dr. Cantrell always comes in with a smile, full of energy — and that alone makes me trust and love her, because she really cares about her patients.” 
• “Dr. Lee is highly knowledgeable, down to earth, and compassionate. He clearly understands the strain on parents during the time between biopsy and waiting for pathology results. He gave us only the information we needed to understand the next steps and encouraged us not to get too overwhelmed or caught up in what we don't know yet. But he also answered our questions honestly and directly. We feel so fortunate to have Dr. Lee and his team leading the charge for answers.” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, April 16

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: South Tower 

Through Friday, April 25 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | In preparation for finishing floors 6-8 in the South Tower, a temporary mockup will be constructed in the 8 South shell space. Light construction may cause minor noise and vibration to adjacent areas in the South and East Towers. Service Elevator 33 will be isolated for the transportation of construction materials to the shell space. If you believe this construction is impacting your work, please contact Brian Williams. 

Windows 11 Upgrade for All PCs Across UVA Health 

UVA Health HIT is upgrading all devices from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as part of our commitment to providing the best tools and technology for enhanced productivity and security. With Microsoft retiring Windows 10 at the end of October, HIT is upgrading existing devices across the health system until the end of November.  

In most areas, the upgrade will be deployed to computers automatically and completed after business hours. For departments operating 24/7, the upgrade will be scheduled during slower shifts, affecting only a limited number of computers at a time. For areas where any computer downtime is not feasible, HIT will collaborate with stakeholders to minimize potential disruptions. To prepare, team members are encouraged to back up critical files to network locations like the F: drive or departmental folders. While no data loss is expected, this precaution ensures data safety in case of upgrade issues. For more details on interface changes, visit the HIT intranet site or refer to the ServiceNow article. 

Leadership 

Watch the Health Leadership Institute Info Session Recording 

Zoom Recording | Passcode: 8J@+c1pe | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, watch the recording of the April 10 information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session features first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, as well as questions from team members like you. 
 
When you’re ready to apply, submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. You can also learn more on Connect. 

U.S. News Gives UVA Schools of Law, Business, Education, and Nursing Superior Marks 

UVA School of Nursing’s graduate programs continue to receive high marks from U.S. News and World Report’s graduate school rankings list. The school is home to the No. 13 public Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, which is No. 20 overall. It also hosts the No. 34 public Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and is No. 47 overall. Graduate nursing programs at UVA remain in the top 3% of 656 U.S. MSN programs and the top 11% of 433 U.S. DPN programs. See more rankings. 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Get to Know the GYN/ONC Team: Compassion, Collaboration, and Clinical Research 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, takes a look at a team whose work exemplifies one of the best parts of being an academic medical center: translating discoveries into revolutionary therapies. Read more. 

UVA Health to Host 2026 National APP Week 

UVA Health has been chosen to host 2026 National Advanced Practice Provider (APP) Week. Celebrated annually during the fourth week of September, this is a time to celebrate and recognize APPs, creating more awareness and highlighting the importance of a collaborative model for advanced practice. Congratulations to all UVA Health APPs — we look forward to helping you welcome your APP colleagues from across the country. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Zoom | Take a 10-minute break to refresh your mind and body with this eight-week series. These quick, engaging, virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Learn more and see the full schedule. 

Collecting 10,000 Diapers 

In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), UVA Health is partnering with Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone Charlottesville to collect 10,000 diapers in a week. You can help by donating full or open packs of diapers, pull-ups, or wipes. Two ways to donate: 

• Online | Order from Amazon. 
• Drop-off | Leave diapers in the Primary Care Center (3rd floor), North Ridge (3rd floor), OB Academic Office, or across from the Health Sciences Library. 

Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Affinity Dialogue Session: Enhancing Decision-Making for Better Outcomes 

Thursday, April 17 | 2-3 p.m. | Bavaro Hall, Holloway Hall Room 116 | Join colleagues from across UVA for a collaborative session focused on improving decision-making of all types: strategic, tactical, and operational. Come share and explore practical approaches to make decisions more effectively and drive successful organizational results. Sponsored by UVA Organizational Excellence. Register. 

The Enemy Within — How Does the Immune System Sense DNA as Danger? 

Thursday, April 17 | 3-4 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2025 John F. Anderson Distinguished Lecture will be presented by Zhijian “James” Chen, PhD, Professor, Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center. Refreshments follow the lecture. Read more. 

UVA Radiology 2025 Tegtmeyer Lecture: Video Game Medicine and Translational Team Science 

Thursday, April 17 | 5-6 p.m. | Educational Resource Center, Auditorium A | Zoom | UVA Health Radiology's 16th annual installment of its Tegtmeyer Lecture Series features speaker Brad Wood, MD, who serves as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Chief of Interventional Radiology and is the founding director of the NIH Center for Interventional Oncology. The talk will cover a wide span of topics including medical devices, robots, and artificial intelligence. Details. 

Nominate: Hoos Building Bridges Award 

Deadline: Friday, April 18 | This award recognizes team members who demonstrate leadership and build thoughtful collaborations and relationships across schools, units, and/or departments that advance our work as an institution. See eligibility requirements and nominate. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

Film Screening: ‘Stitching Strength’ 

Friday, April 18 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Light House Studio at Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. | This inspiring film delves into the dedicated efforts of neurologist and Director of the Duke ALS Clinic, Richard Bedlack, MD, PhD, MS, to instill hope and enhance the lives of individuals living with ALS — all while tirelessly searching for a cure. Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion featuring distinguished experts and advocates. Event flyer. Buy tickets. 

Movement Challenge: #Go50forALS 

Through Saturday, April 19 | Details | Get moving to raise money and awareness for ALS. Email your photos to the Hummingbird Fund and they'll include them in the community slideshow during the celebration at Selvedge Brewing on Saturday, April 19, 1-3 p.m. On social media, tag @hummingbirdfundva and use #go50forALS to share your posts and spread the word. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | Details | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Two ways to participate:    

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. 
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim” T-shirt. 

Donate Blood in Celebration of Medical Lab Week 

Tuesday, April 22, and Friday, April 25 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | In celebration of Medical Lab Week (April 20-26) please consider donating blood. Help save lives and empower your health. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: when you donate in April, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card. Plus, through April 30, you’ll get an exclusive American Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. Details. 

Film Screening: 'Dottie'  

Screening of the award-winning short film "Dottie," which focuses on dementia and empathy. A post-panel discussion will be held with social and behavioral scholar Ishan Williams, PhD, FGSA, Professor of Nursing; filmmaker C. Robin Maricotte of Boston-based Articine; and Tim Cunningham, DrPH, RN, FAAN, adjunct Associate Professor at Emory University School of Nursing. Part of the Compassionate Care Initiative Learning Series and sponsored by the Haney Conference for Compassionate End-of-Life Care. Details. 

• Tuesday, April 29 | noon-1 p.m. | Sandridge Auditorium, McKim Hall 
• Tuesday, April 29 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | The Center at Belvedere 

Celebrate National Nurses Week 

May 6-12 | In celebration of National Nurses Week, University Medical Center is hosting a series of events, including an Evidence-Based Practice Symposium, drop-in celebrations, Nursing Excellence Awards Ceremony, and more. Details. All team members are invited to participate in:  

• Nightingale Notables | Award a colleague with a 2025 Superlative Award. Available digitally or as a printable PowerPoint file. 
• Late Nights at Higher Grounds | May 6-12 | Extended hours to 2 a.m. | University Hospital cafeteria 
• Food Truck Friday | Friday, May 9 | 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. | MR5 Sidewalk between the loading dock and South Garage 

Save the Date: UVA Health Week 

May 11-15 | Join your colleagues at this annual event aligned during National Hospital Week to celebrate and show appreciation for the contributions of team members across our health system. Schedule of celebrations:   

• Sunday, May 11 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m., 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 
• Monday, May 12 | Fontaine Research Park | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Tuesday, May 13 | Orthopedic Center Ivy Road | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center | MR5 courtyard | 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 6-7:30 p.m.  
• Wednesday, May 14 | University Medical Center main cafeteria | 11 p.m.-1:30 a.m.  
• Thursday, May 15 | North Fork, 955 Ivy Rd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Thursday, May 15 | Northridge, 994 Research Park Blvd. | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

UVA Enlighten 

Application deadline: Thursday, May 15 | Apply for UVA’s 100% online Enlighten program and earn credit toward a bachelor’s degree. Join an online, interactive webinar Thursday, April 17, at 6 p.m., to learn more. Register. 

Virginia Academy of Science Annual Meeting 

Thursday, May 22 | The 103rd Annual Meeting of the Virginia Academy of Science (VAS) will be held at UVA. Agenda includes post and oral presentations, lectures, and awards ceremony. A council meeting will be held Friday, May 23. Questions? Contact VAS Vice President, Craig Group, Program Chair for the annual meeting. See schedule and register. 

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

Appreciation 

April Is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month 

The National Cancer Institute estimates that in 2024 — about 71,110 cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx were diagnosed and more than 16,110 people died from these diseases in the United States. The American Association for Cancer Research says head and neck cancers are more common among men than women, and diagnosed more often in people over age 50. 

UVA Health has an internationally recognized program for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant and benign head and neck lesions in adults and children. On our head and neck cancer team, we have 19 specialists in radiology and medical imaging, neuroradiology, hematology/oncology, otolaryngology, radiation oncology, and general surgery. (Pictured, from left: Varinda Kaur, MD; Jonathan Garneau, MD; Eric Dowling, MD; and Christopher McLaughlin, MD.) 

“Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month is so important because head and neck cancer is not really known or discussed in the community," says Christopher McLaughlin, MD, Medical Director, Radiation Oncology, and Assistant Professor, UVA School of Medicine. “It may not be the most common type of cancer, but when caught early, it can usually be cured with very high rates of success. Awareness is how we reach folks in the community so we can get treatment started while the cancer is still curable.” 

More than 90% of head and neck cancers can be detected by a simple physical exam, so it is important to see a doctor if you are at risk or experiencing symptoms. Free head and neck screenings can be scheduled 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, April 19, Charlottesville Free Clinic, 901 Preston Avenue, Suite 300. Appointments encouraged; walk-ins welcome. Contact Stephanie Mills at 434.982.1885 for more information. 

Monday, April 14

New Locations: UVA Health Cancer Care Pantops and UVA Health Infusion and Specialty Care Pantops 

UVA Health has opened an expanded cancer infusion and clinic space at 652 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 310. The new UVA Health Cancer Care Pantops offers multidisciplinary cancer care in a modern, patient-friendly setting. 

The former Cancer Care Pantops space at 590 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 175, will now house UVA Health Infusion and Specialty Care Pantops — our first dedicated site for non-cancer infusions. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new cancer care location will be held on Friday, April 25. 

Operations 

University Hospital: 2M Roof Replacement Project 

Through Thursday, May 1 | 3-6 a.m. | To support University Hospital’s 2M roof replacement project, a boom truck will block one lane of traffic on Lee Street every two days. Flaggers will be on-site to assist with traffic. 

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Leadership 

Watch the Health Leadership Institute Info Session Recording 

Zoom Recording | Passcode: 8J@+c1pe | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, watch the recording of the April 10 information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session features first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, as well as questions from team members like you. 

When you’re ready to apply, submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. You can also learn more on Connect. 

Human Resources 

FY25 Year-End Review for UVA Health 

FY25 UVA Health self-evaluations launched on March 31. Self-evaluations and FY26 goals are due to managers on April 30. Outstanding self-evaluations will advance to managers on May 1. All University Medical Center team members are required to complete their self-evaluation. Training is available in Workday Learning (five-minute asynchronous) for team members and leaders to help with completing the performance review. Resources and additional details about the FY25 performance process can be found on the UVA Health Performance website. 

Happenings 

One Healthcare Ecochallenge 

April 2025 | Join the One Healthcare Ecochallenge and show how UVA Health promotes health, sustainability, and community well-being. All clinicians, staff, and students are welcome to join and begin taking actions big or small. Example actions. Learn more. 

Earth Month Events 

April 2025 | Join this month-long celebration of our shared planet. Planned events include clothing swaps, Corner clean-ups, talks, garden tours, eco-fair, and more. See the full list of events. Learn more about UVA Sustainability. 

Collecting 10,000 Diapers 

In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), UVA Health is partnering with Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone Charlottesville to collect 10,000 diapers in a week. You can help by donating full or open packs of diapers, pull-ups, or wipes. Two ways to donate:    

• Online | Order from Amazon.    
• Drop-off | Leave diapers in the Primary Care Center (3rd floor), North Ridge (3rd floor), OB Academic Office, or across from the Health Sciences Library.    

Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Movement Challenge: #Go50forALS 

Through Saturday, April 19 | Details | Get moving to raise money and awareness for ALS. Email your photos to the Hummingbird Fund and they'll include them in the community slideshow during the celebration at Selvedge Brewing on Saturday, April 19, 1-3 p.m. On social media, tag @hummingbirdfundva and use #go50forALS, to share your posts and spread the word. 

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life 

Tuesday, April 15 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off or take what you need monthly. 

PhD Virtual Info Session 

Tuesday, April 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Speak with admissions and student services team members to learn more about UVA School of Nursing’s PhD programs, financial aid options, career opportunities, and what you can expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Redesigning the U.S.'s Broken Health System: The Nursing Profession's Role in Ending Unequal Treatment 

Wednesday, April 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | UVA School of Nursing is pleased to announce that Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD, MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAAN — a leading scholar in social determinants of health, adolescent mental and sexual health, and a Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing nurse scientist — has been chosen to be the 2025 McGehee Lecturer. Details. 

Breakfast With the Birth Sisters of Charlottesville 

Thursday, April 17 | 9 a.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110 | Join this breakfast with doulas from the Birth Sisters of Charlottesville to learn more about their work. Sponsored by UVA School of Medicine. Register. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on: 

• Thursday, April 17 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Monday, April 21 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Wednesday, April 30 | 9 a.m.-noon 

Affinity Dialogue Session: Enhancing Decision-Making for Better Outcomes 

Thursday, April 17 | 2-3 p.m. | Bavaro Hall, Holloway Hall Room 116 | Join colleagues from across UVA for a collaborative session focused on improving decision-making of all types: strategic, tactical, and operational. Come share and explore practical approaches to make decisions more effectively and drive successful organizational results. Sponsored by UVA Organizational Excellence. Register. 

The Enemy Within — How Does the Immune System Sense DNA as Danger? 

Thursday, April 17 | 3-4 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2025 John F. Anderson Distinguished Lecture will be presented by Zhijian “James” Chen, PhD, Professor, Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center. Refreshments follow the lecture. Read more. 

UVA Radiology 2025 Tegtmeyer Lecture: Video Game Medicine and Translational Team Science 

Thursday, April 17 | 5-6 p.m. | Educational Resource Center, Auditorium A | Zoom | UVA Health Radiology's 16th annual installment of its Tegtmeyer Lecture Series features speaker Brad Wood, MD, who serves as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Chief of Interventional Radiology and is the founding director of the NIH Center for Interventional Oncology. The talk will cover a wide span of topics including medical devices, robots, and artificial intelligence. Details. 

Nominate: Hoos Building Bridges Award 

Deadline: Friday, April 18 | This award recognizes team members who demonstrate leadership and build thoughtful collaborations and relationships across schools, units, and/or departments that advance our work as an institution. See eligibility requirements and nominate. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

Film Screening: Stitching Strength 

Friday, April 18 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Light House Studio at Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. | This inspiring film delves into the dedicated efforts of neurologist and Director of the Duke ALS Clinic, Richard Bedlack, MD, PhD, MS, to instill hope and enhance the lives of individuals living with ALS — all while tirelessly searching for a cure. Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion featuring distinguished experts and advocates. Event flyer. Buy tickets. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | Details | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Two ways to participate:    

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. 
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim” T-shirt. 

Appreciation 

2025 Sustainability Leadership Award Winners

Eleven nominees were selected as University of Virginia 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award winners for their outstanding contributions to sustainability efforts at UVA and in the broader community over the past year. UVA will formally recognize the winners at a May 2 event. Awardees were chosen by a selection committee facilitated by the Office for Sustainability. 

“We are impressed at the depth of nominations from individuals and groups we received again this year, from across UVA, the region, and across sectors, those who are saving energy and reducing waste in collaborative ways, while providing important and innovative services. The nominees’ and winners’ individual and collective impacts are inspiring,” said Andrea Trimble, Director of the UVA Office for Sustainability. Award recipients are: 

• Community Award | Bellair Farm; Flipp, Inc.; Local Energy Alliance Program (LEAP); and Make a Change Club at Albemarle High School. 
• Faculty Awards | Dr. Samantha Ahdoot, Katie MacDonald, and Kyle Schumann. 
• Staff Awards | Tabatha Gilbert, Alicia White, and Ash Morton. 
• Student Awards | Zack Landsman, Lincoln Lewis, and Student Clinicians for Climate Action. 

Read more on Connect. 

Friday, April 11

Top Medical Research Expert Mark T. Esser to Lead UVA’s Manning Institute 

UVA has named Mark T. Esser, PhD, a premier expert in the development of new medical treatments and tests, to lead the upcoming Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology and bring to life the institute’s ambitious plans for a healthier tomorrow for people across the world. 

In his role as the inaugural Chief Scientific Officer and Head of the Manning Institute, Esser will be charged with capitalizing on the cutting-edge biomedical research under way at UVA and UVA Health to tackle some of the greatest challenges in medicine and accelerate the development of new treatments and cures. Read the press release. 

Operations 

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

New Point Click Care Post-Acute Care Management Tool 

A new application called Point Click Care Post-Acute Care Management (PCC PAC Man) was launched March 27. This portal allows access to patients’ clinical information during their stay at a skilled nursing facility (SNF). Several teams have been trained on the portal, including the Population Health Department’s Transitions of Care (TOC), clinical care services, Continuum Home Health, and Case Management leadership. The Emergency Department (ED) also now has access to the ED SNF summary as a quick reference for patients with a recent SNF encounter. If you have a team member who needs access to PCC PAC Man, you must complete a request via the Access Management Platform in ServiceNow and a training video with attestation required in Workday. 

New UVA Health Brand Site: Clearer Guidelines, Easier Access, More Functionality 

UVA Health is excited to announce the launch of a new and improved brand site, brand.uvahealth.com, designed to provide all team members with streamlined access to brand guidelines and standards, design templates, and digital assets. With this improved brand site, team members will find it easier than ever to create professional, on-brand materials that reflect our commitment to excellence. The guidelines provide direction on how to apply our visual identity standards to ensure a clear, consistent, and compelling brand. We encourage all team members to explore the new site, check out the FAQs, and take advantage of these enhanced resources. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Mark T. Esser’s appointment as Chief Scientific Officer and Head of the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology is featured locally and in Virginia Business. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Katherine Fedder participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing head and neck cancers. 
• The UVA Health Transplant Center’s new outpatient clinic in Wytheville is highlighted across Virginia and in Becker’s Hospital Review. 
• Dr. Gregg Eure is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing Aquablation, a minimally invasive treatment for enlarged prostates. 
• Director of Specialty and Home Delivery Pharmacy Services Joshua Weber, Chief Pharmacy Officer Danielle Griggs, and Pharmacy Manager Morgan Astrin are featured locally, across Virginia, on TV stations nationally and in Becker’s Hospital Review discussing plans to expand specialty and home delivery pharmacy operations. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights the UVA Health Transplant Center among Optum’s centers of excellence for complex transplant needs. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review spotlights UVA Health among 56 health systems recognized nationally for digital supply chain excellence. 

Research 

• University Medical Center CEO Wendy Horton is featured in a Becker’s Hospital Review story on how health systems are thinking about and using AI. 
• Dr. Patrick Jackson talks with Medscape about what research has shown to be the best approach to preventing measles. 
• Dr. Rebecca Scharf is featured in The Telegraph (one of the UK’s largest newspapers) and on Yahoo discussing why chores are good for kids. 
• Dr. Mo Nadkarni talks with Medscape about the continued rise in diabetes cases and other chronic health conditions. 
• Dr. Chongzhi Zang is featured locally and in Richmond discussing a new cancer prediction tool. 

Community 

• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured locally, across Virginia, on TV stations nationally, and on MedPage Today discussing the dangers of overdosing on vitamin A. 

Education 

• Strategic Communications Specialist Debbie Fleischer and Program Manager Pamela Berton were featured in a Prince William Times story on a career exploration day for local high school students at Prince William Medical Center. 

Happenings 

Following the Flow of My Brushes: The Art of Anne Delatour Hopper 

Through Wednesday, May 14 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Following the Flow of My Brushes.” Pictured: “Mont Saint Michel,” oil on canvas. Stop by and check it out! 

UVA School of Nursing Seeks Preceptor-Mentors for Advanced Practice Nursing Students 

UVA School of Nursing is seeking nurses with a penchant to teach the next generation of advanced practice nursing students on their units. UVA graduate nursing students are experienced, fun, brilliant, and eager to learn from you and your colleagues. Curious about paying it forward in 2025? Learn more about being a preceptor and get started. 

National Donate Life Month 

April 11-12 | The South Tower will be lighted green over the weekend in honor of National Donate Life Month. 

Collecting 10,000 Diapers 

In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), UVA Health is partnering with Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone Charlottesville to collect 10,000 diapers in a week. You can help by donating full or open packs of diapers, pull-ups, or wipes. Two ways to donate:   

• Online | Order from Amazon.   
• Drop-off | Leave diapers in the Primary Care Center (3rd floor), North Ridge (3rd floor), OB Academic Office, or across from the Health Sciences Library.   

Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

42nd Annual UVA School of Medicine 5K Benefiting Camp Holiday Trails 

Saturday, April 12 | 9-11 a.m. | UVA Grounds | Since 1973, more than 10,000 kids have found fun and support during summers at Camp Holiday Trails, a camp for children with medical needs and their siblings. UVA School of Medicine's partnership with Camp Holiday Trails has lasted decades and supports the amazing work the camp does for families in our community. Sign up. Questions? Contact Tylah Harrison or Uloma Nwaolu. 

Medical Center Hour | Speaking Up About Meaningful Work: Navigating Its Power and Pitfalls 

Monday, April 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | Leading expert in applied positive psychology, Andrew Soren, Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, unpacks the paradox of meaningful work, exploring both its transformative potential and hidden challenges. A Medical Center Hour and CCI Learning Series talk. Details.   

Call for Nominations: 2025 Thomas Jefferson Awards 

Deadline: Monday, April 14 | noon | These awards are the highest honors given to members of the University community. Recipients exemplify the principles, ideals, and mission of the University in their character, work, and influence. Questions? Contact the Thomas Jefferson Awards Committee or Cecil Banks, Executive Director for Major Events and External Relations. Learn more. 

ROSE Program Gives Office Supplies New Life 

Tuesday, April 15 | 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Medical Center Dining Conference Rooms 1 and 2 | Reusable Office Supply Exchange (ROSE) Program is a free service that collects new or gently used office supplies. Drop off or take what you need monthly. 

Black Maternal Health Week | The Cost of Care: How Financial Disparities Play a Role in Black Maternal Morbidity and Mortality 

Tuesday, April 15 | 6 p.m. | Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church | Speaker: Tawanna Gilliard, MD, FACOG, author, TEDx speaker, and retired OB/GYN physician. Sponsored by UVA Health and UVA School of Medicine. Register.  

Redesigning the U.S.'s Broken Health System: The Nursing Profession's Role in Ending Unequal Treatment 

Wednesday, April 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | UVA School of Nursing is pleased to announce that Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD, MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAAN — a leading scholar in social determinants of health, adolescent mental and sexual health, and a Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing nurse scientist — has been chosen to be the 2025 McGehee Lecturer. Details. 

Breakfast With the Birth Sisters of Charlottesville 

Thursday, April 17 | 9 a.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Room 3110 | Join this breakfast with doulas from the Birth Sisters of Charlottesville to learn more about their work. Sponsored by UVA School of Medicine. Register. 

Nominate: Hoos Building Bridges Award 

Deadline: Friday, April 18 | This award recognizes team members who demonstrate leadership and build thoughtful collaborations and relationships across schools, units, and/or departments that advance our work as an institution. See eligibility requirements and nominate. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | Details | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Two ways to participate:   

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. 
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim” T-shirt. 

UVA Research Computing Exhibition 

Wednesday, April 23 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Newcomb Hall Ballroom | This exhibition showcases the incredible research happening across UVA. Whether you are interested in sharing your research or discovering what others are working on, this exhibition offers the opportunity to see and discuss research posters, hear lightning talks from UVA faculty, learn about resources for research, explore diverse research methods, find potential collaborators, and connect with the broader research community. Free food and beverages, Details. 

Advancing Discoveries and Driving Innovation 

Wednesday, April 23 | 5-7 p.m. | The Link Lab | This event is about sparking new ideas, building connections, and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations. Attendees will share a one-minute elevator pitch about their research, so it's a great opportunity to hear what researchers are working on across Grounds. Register. 

3rd Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety (QI/PS) Showcase 

Tuesday, June 10 | 11:30-1:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | Recognizing local improvements in QI/PS from all disciplines. Any UVA faculty member, staff member, fellow resident, postdoc, graduate student, or medical student who has engaged in implementation and assessment of a QI/PS project is eligible to download and submit a form and abstract by 11:59 p.m., April 14, to QIPSshowcase@uvahealth.org. Accepting works in progress and QI/PS projects. Authors of abstracts selected for presentation will be notified by May 1. 

Appreciation 

‘I Wasn't Just a Name on a Screen’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:                 

• “During my stay at the hospital, I had one nurse specifically who truly helped me so much. Her name was Mary Grace, and she was absolutely amazing, I cannot thank her enough for helping us get me ready to go back home to my kids. She had such a great personality that made her very relatable and easy to work with and understand. If I could nominate her for an award, I truly would! Thank you, UVA Health and Mary Grace.” 
• “I called in the morning to schedule an appointment due to severe pain. The receptionist was very kind and transferred me to the triage nurse, Sophia. The team was able to schedule me for later in the day. Sophia called me back maybe an hour after I scheduled my appointment. She wanted to check on me and make sure I had taken over-the-counter medication. She also reiterated when I would need to seek a higher level of care (ER). It really meant a lot to me that she thought to check on me again. I felt like I wasn't just a name on a screen and that she genuinely cares about the patients she interacts with.” 
• “This was the state-of-the-art, best experience I've ever had with any hospital! Everyone — from the time I walked in the door until I left — was exceptional. I was blessed to have your team care for me. You all are the best. I will, from this point forward, go to UVA Health for my medical needs. My healing and surgery were phenomenal. I felt like I was their top priority.” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, April 9

Hoos Research Champion Awards — Nominate a Colleague Today 

Deadline: Friday, April 11 | UVA Health is proud to launch the Hoos Research Champion Awards, a new initiative recognizing the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of research team members who enhance our culture of research excellence. Originating from the Spark Innovation Competition, this award celebrates those who conduct or support research at UVA Health. Each year, three outstanding recipients will be selected to receive a $1,000 prize, engraved award, and recognition in UVA Health publications. 

All UVA Health team members who contribute to research — such as research lab staff, clinical research coordinators, grants and contracts staff, core facility staff, and vivarium staff — are eligible. Faculty and students are not eligible. Nominations are open until April 11 and can be submitted by any UVA Health team member. Simply provide the nominee’s name, title/department, and a brief statement on why they deserve recognition. Submit a nomination. For questions, contact Danny Burdine, Director of Research Operations. Read more on Connect. 

Operations 

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Leadership 

UVA Health Leadership Institute Virtual Info Session 

Thursday, April 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom (Meeting ID: 937 9062 9032, Passcode: 19aEQ^YB) | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, plan to attend this virtual information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session will feature first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, with plenty of time for team member questions.    

In the meantime, you can learn more about HLI and the cohort leadership program application process on Connect. If you’re ready to apply: submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. 

Organizational Announcement: University Medical Center Bed Placement Operations and Patient Progression, UVA Health Transfer Center Operations 

Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, University Medical Center, announces that Abdi Somo, MBA, FACHE, Chief Administrative Officer, University Medical Center, will now oversee patient progression, bed placement, and transfer center operations across our medical center, effective immediately. She also welcomes Justin Langford, MS, BHS, to UVA Health as the Interim Director for Patient Placement, Medcom, Transfer Center Operations, and Discharge Transportation. Peter Paige, MD, Chief Clinical Officer, will continue working closely with Erik Shannon, CEO, UVA Community Health, and clinical leadership on clinical integration between UVACH and University Medical Center. Read the full message. 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Best Place to Work: Supporting You at Work and Beyond 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, highlights programs designed with your well-being in mind. Read more. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Zoom | Take a 10-minute break to refresh your mind and body with this eight-week series. These quick, engaging, virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Learn more and see the full schedule. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management 

This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. All sessions are noon-1 p.m. Register.     

• Thursday, April 10 | Mind: Mind Over Matter — How Mental Health Impacts Obesity     
• Thursday, April 24 | Move: Move More, Weigh Less — How Exercise Combats Obesity     
• Thursday, May 8 | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

Bryan Stevenson: In Conversation With UVA Batten Dean Ian H. Solomon 

Thursday, April 10 | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | Garrett Hall | Renowned civil rights advocate and attorney Bryan Stevenson is the recipient of the 2025 Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal in Citizen Leadership. Stevenson is founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Alabama, and author of The New York Times bestseller, “Just Mercy.” Register. 

HUMAINE and the Future of Healthcare: Implications for Nursing Science, Education, and Practice 

Thursday, April 10 | 4-5 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker Michael Cary, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Professor, Duke University School of Nursing, AI Heath Equity Scholar, Duke University Health System, leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to study health disparities related to aging and develops strategies to improve healthcare delivery for diverse older adult populations. As co-director of HUMAINE (Human-Centered Use of Multidisciplinary Artificial Intelligence for Next-Gen Education and Research) at Duke University School of Nursing, he works to enhance AI literacy among nurses and to promote equitable AI integration in healthcare. Details. 

Collecting 10,000 Diapers 

In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), UVA Health is partnering with Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone Charlottesville to collect 10,000 diapers in a week. You can help by donating full or open packs of diapers, pull-ups, or wipes. Two ways to donate:  

• Online | Order from Amazon.  
• Drop-off | Leave diapers in the Primary Care Center (3rd floor), North Ridge (3rd floor), OB Academic Office, or across from the Health Sciences Library.  

Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Medical Center Hour | Speaking Up About Meaningful Work: Navigating Its Power and Pitfalls 

Monday, April 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | Leading expert in applied positive psychology, Andrew Soren, Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, unpacks the paradox of meaningful work, exploring both its transformative potential and hidden challenges. A Medical Center Hour and CCI Learning Series talk. Details.   

PhD Virtual Info Session 

Tuesday, April 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Speak with admissions and student services team members to learn more about UVA School of Nursing’s PhD programs, financial aid options, career opportunities, and what you can expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Redesigning the U.S.'s Broken Health System: The Nursing Profession's Role in Ending Unequal Treatment 

Wednesday, April 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | UVA School of Nursing is pleased to announce that Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD, MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAAN — a leading scholar in social determinants of health, adolescent mental and sexual health, and a Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing nurse scientist — has been chosen to be the 2025 McGehee Lecturer. Details. 

Affinity Dialogue Session: Enhancing Decision-Making for Better Outcomes 

Thursday, April 17 | 2-3 p.m. | Bavaro Hall, Holloway Hall Room 116 | Join colleagues from across UVA for a collaborative session focused on improving decision-making of all types: strategic, tactical, and operational. Come share and explore practical approaches to make decisions more effectively and drive successful organizational results. Sponsored by UVA Organizational Excellence. Register. 

The Enemy Within — How Does the Immune System Sense DNA as Danger? 

Thursday, April 17 | 3-4 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2025 John F. Anderson Distinguished Lecture will be presented by Zhijian “James” Chen, PhD, Professor, Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center. Refreshments follow the lecture. Read more. 

UVA Radiology 2025 Tegtmeyer Lecture: Video Game Medicine and Translational Team Science 

Thursday, April 17 | 5-6 p.m. | Educational Resource Center, Auditorium A | Zoom | UVA Health Radiology's 16th annual installment of its Tegtmeyer Lecture Series features speaker Brad Wood, MD, who serves as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Chief of Interventional Radiology and is the founding director of the NIH Center for Interventional Oncology. The talk will cover a wide span of topics including medical devices, robots, and artificial intelligence. Details. 

3rd Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety (QI/PS) Showcase 

Tuesday, June 10 | 11:30-1:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | Recognizing local improvements in QI/PS from all disciplines. Any UVA faculty member, staff member, fellow resident, postdoc, graduate student, or medical student who has engaged in implementation and assessment of a QI/PS project is eligible to download and submit a form and abstract by 11:59 p.m., April 14, to QIPSshowcase@uvahealth.org. Accepting works in progress and QI/PS projects. Authors of abstracts selected for presentation will be notified by May 1. 

Appreciation 

Video Series | Research in Motion 

Have you been keeping up with this weekly series? Researchers answer three questions: What do you do? What do you love about your research? How will it impact human health? View the latest: 

• Tajie Harris, PhD (pictured) | "We’re tackling questions at the interface of how the nervous system interacts with the immune system. This is important because we think that the immune system shouldn’t enter the brain, but it does." 
• J. Nicholas Brenton, MD | "My research focuses on the environmental factors that may impact disease course in multiple sclerosis, such as obesity, diet, metabolism, and also physical activity levels." 
• Patrick Jackson, MD | "What I work on is how HIV is able to turn its own genes on and off, and how the virus uses that ability to adapt to different conditions in the human body ... I’m hopeful that understanding how the virus controls its own genes could be one piece of the puzzle that eventually leads us to a cure." 
• Tarek Abbas, PhD | "The focus for my research laboratory is to try to understand the specific functions of different regulatory proteins that are able to sense and repair different types of DNA damage." 

Thank you to these researchers — and all our colleagues who advance medical knowledge — for conducting research that shapes the medicine we deliver tomorrow, and how we deliver it. New Research in Motion videos are posted every Friday on Connect. 

Monday, April 7

UVA Health Leadership Institute Virtual Info Session 

Thursday, April 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom (Meeting ID: 937 9062 9032, Passcode: 19aEQ^YB) | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, plan to attend this virtual information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session will feature first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, with plenty of time for team member questions.   

In the meantime, you can learn more about HLI and the cohort leadership program application process on Connect. If you’re ready to apply: submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. 

Patient Care 

Expanding Use of Electronic Consents at UVA Health 

Phase 1 launches Tuesday, April 8 | As part of our commitment to improving workflows and enhancing patient care, UVA Health is expanding the use of electronic consents (e-consents) across the system. The expansion will occur in two phases, with Phase 1 launching on April 8. This phase includes updates to existing e-consent forms, the introduction of new blood e-consents for five early adopter groups, and workflow adjustments for inpatient doctors, APPs, and perioperative teams. Phase 2, planned for summer 2025, will introduce additional e-consents, including those for anesthesia, nerve blocks, ICU procedures, and more.       

To prepare for Phase 1 — providers, nurses, and perioperative team members should familiarize themselves with the updated procedural and surgical consents:     

• Review ELL tip sheet: Obtaining E-Consents With Blood. 
• Early adopter providers in Orthopedics, Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery, and UVA Health Imaging must complete a brief Workday training module by April 8. 

More details on Phase 2 will be shared later this spring. Thank you for your support as we enhance our electronic documentation processes for a more streamlined and efficient patient experience. 

Operations 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:     

• New Spontaneous Breathing Trial (SBT) for Adult Mechanical Ventilation Liberation SOP 
• Updates to Incoming Emergent/Urgent Phone Call Ambulatory SOP 
• Updates to Use of Patient’s Own Medication in the Provision of Care Medical Center Policy 
• Updates to Provision of Healthcare Services to Children Medical Center Policy, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, April 8 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services, as well as all Epic users, Access/Patient Access Teams, and the Emergency Department. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Contact the Service Desk: fill out a form or call 434.924.5334. 

University Hospital: 2M Roof Replacement Project 

April 8-May 1 | 3-6 a.m. | To support University Hospital’s 2M roof replacement project, a boom truck will block one lane of traffic on Lee Street every two days. Flaggers will be on-site to assist with traffic.   

Updating Access Control System Software 

Tuesday, April 8 | Starting at 9:30 a.m. | Electronic Security — in partnership with A-Tech, Lenel, and Health Information Technology — will begin updating the Access Control system software beginning with the server and following up with the appropriate updates to all clients. During this update period, which is expected to last four to eight hours, we will not be able to update access, add new users, modify door schedules, or run reports. This will not affect access within the hospital or ambulatory locations during the update. Please ensure all requests for access, new users or badges, schedules, or reports are submitted by noon on Monday, April 7, so that we can complete them before the end of the day. If you have questions regarding this update, please contact the Electronic Security Manager.   

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Happenings 

One Healthcare Ecochallenge 

April 2025 | Join the One Healthcare Ecochallenge and show how UVA Health promotes health, sustainability, and community well-being. All clinicians, staff, and students are welcome to join and begin taking actions big or small. Example actions. Learn more. 

Earth Month Events 

April 2025 | Join this month-long celebration of our shared planet. Planned events include clothing swaps, Corner clean-ups, talks, garden tours, eco-fair, and more. See the full list of events. Learn more about UVA Sustainability. 

Physicians and APPs: Get a New Provider Directory Headshot 

McKim Hall | Ground Floor, Room G045 | No appointment necessary. Bring a white coat if you have one; if not, one will be provided. Photos taken in 10 minutes or less on:    

• Tuesday, April 8 | 1:30-4:30 p.m.   
• Thursday, April 17 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Monday, April 21 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.  
• Wednesday, April 30 | 9 a.m.-noon 

Clinical Nurse Leader Virtual Info Session 

Tuesday, April 8 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Speak with admissions and student services team members to learn more about the role, program, financial aid options, and what you can expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Medical Center Hour | Continuity Within Chaos: Caring for Individuals Living Chronically in Shelters and on the Streets 

Wednesday, April 9 | noon-1 p.m., lunch provided to the first 60 people | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio and Zoom | Jim O'Connell, MD, President and Founder of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, will share the story of how he transitioned from the role of Internal Medicine Chief Resident at Massachusetts General Hospital to the country’s first street doctor for those experiencing homelessness. 

Advanced Practice (APRN) Virtual Info Session 

Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Hear from student ambassadors currently enrolled in the UVA School of Nursing program and speak with admissions and student services team members and faculty members to learn more about UVA’s advanced practice programs, financial aid, career opportunities, and what to expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management 

This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. All sessions are noon-1 p.m. Register.    

• Thursday, April 10 | Mind: Mind Over Matter — How Mental Health Impacts Obesity    
• Thursday, April 24 | Move: Move More, Weigh Less — How Exercise Combats Obesity    
• Thursday, May 8 | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

Bryan Stevenson: In Conversation With UVA Batten Dean Ian H. Solomon 

Thursday, April 10 | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | Garrett Hall | Renowned civil rights advocate and attorney Bryan Stevenson is the recipient of the 2025 Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal in Citizen Leadership. Stevenson is founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Alabama, and author of The New York Times bestseller, “Just Mercy.” Register. 

HUMAINE and the Future of Healthcare: Implications for Nursing Science, Education, and Practice 

Thursday, April 10 | 4-5 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker Michael Cary, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Professor, Duke University School of Nursing, AI Heath Equity Scholar, Duke University Health System, leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to study health disparities related to aging and develops strategies to improve healthcare delivery for diverse older adult populations. As co-director of HUMAINE (Human-Centered Use of Multidisciplinary Artificial Intelligence for Next-Gen Education and Research) at Duke University School of Nursing, he works to enhance AI literacy among nurses and to promote equitable AI integration in healthcare. Details. 

Hoos Research Champion Awards — Nominate a Colleague Today 

Deadline: Friday, April 11 | UVA Health is proud to launch the Hoos Research Champion Awards, a new initiative recognizing the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of research team members who enhance our culture of research excellence. Originating from the Spark Innovation Competition, this award celebrates those who conduct or support research at UVA Health. Each year, three outstanding recipients will be selected to receive a $1,000 prize, engraved award, and recognition in UVA Health publications.       

All UVA Health team members who contribute to research — such as research lab staff, clinical research coordinators, grants and contracts staff, core facility staff, and vivarium staff — are eligible. Faculty and students are not eligible. Nominations are open until April 11 and can be submitted by any UVA Health team member. Simply provide the nominee’s name, title/department, and a brief statement on why they deserve recognition. Submit a nomination. For questions, contact Danny Burdine, Director of Research Operations. Read more on Connect. 

Collecting 10,000 Diapers 

In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), UVA Health is partnering with Birth Sisters of Charlottesville and Stepping Stone Charlottesville to collect 10,000 diapers in a week. You can help by donating full or open packs of diapers, pull-ups, or wipes. Two ways to donate: 

• Online | Order from Amazon. 
• Drop-off | Leave diapers in the Primary Care Center (3rd floor), North Ridge (3rd floor), OB Academic Office, or across from the Health Sciences Library. 

Questions? Contact Jackie Martin. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Details. Two ways to participate:  

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s.  
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim” T-shirt. 

3rd Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety (QI/PS) Showcase 

Tuesday, June 10 | 11:30-1:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | Recognizing local improvements in QI/PS from all disciplines. Any UVA faculty member, staff member, fellow resident, postdoc, graduate student, or medical student who has engaged in implementation and assessment of a QI/PS project is eligible to download and submit a form and abstract by 11:59 p.m., April 14, to QIPSshowcase@uvahealth.org. Accepting works in progress and QI/PS projects. Authors of abstracts selected for presentation will be notified by May 1. 

Appreciation 

Transplant Team Creates a Garden of Pinwheels to Honor Those Who Have Donated Life 

If you have time during National Donate Life Month, stop by the front of the West Complex to visit the Pinwheel Garden. Each blue-and-silver pinwheel, with its single stem and eight spokes, represents the ability of one person to save up to eight lives through organ donation.  

The multi-colored pinwheels symbolize the diverse stories and experiences connected to organ donation and transplantation. Created by team members, patients, and families, these pinwheels illustrate the community spirit of Donate Life Month. 

The Pinwheel Garden will be on display through April 30. Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible! Read more and see photos on Connect. 

Friday, April 4

Operational Update: Flu Season 

Reid Adams, MD, Chief Medical Officer, and Costi Sifri, MD, Hospital Epidemiologist, report that seasonal influenza and COVID-19 activity continues to decline in most areas of the country, including Virginia; following updated guidance from UVA Health’s Infection Prevention and Control team, we will implement adjustments to our masking protocols.  
 
“Clinical areas where masking is currently optional will continue to be mask optional. Masking will continue to be required in areas where we have high concentrations of high risk patients. If you have questions about your unit's masking status, please ask your leader. As we move forward, we are reassessing masking requirements and will communicate any additional changes.” Read the full message  

Patient Care 

Expanding Use of Electronic Consents at UVA Health 

Phase 1 launches Tuesday, April 8 | As part of our commitment to improving workflows and enhancing patient care, UVA Health is expanding the use of electronic consents (e-consents) across the system. The expansion will occur in two phases, with Phase 1 launching on April 8. This phase includes updates to existing e-consent forms, the introduction of new blood e-consents for five early adopter groups, and workflow adjustments for inpatient doctors, APPs, and perioperative teams. Phase 2, planned for summer 2025, will introduce additional e-consents, including those for anesthesia, nerve blocks, ICU procedures, and more.      

To prepare for Phase 1 — providers, nurses, and perioperative team members should familiarize themselves with the updated procedural and surgical consents:    

• Review ELL tip sheet: Obtaining E-Consents With Blood.   
• Early adopter providers in Orthopedics, Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery, and UVA Health Imaging must complete a brief Workday training module by April 8.     

More details on Phase 2 will be shared later this spring. Thank you for your support as we enhance our electronic documentation processes for a more streamlined and efficient patient experience. 

Operations 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:    

• New Spontaneous Breathing Trial (SBT) for Adult Mechanical Ventilation Liberation SOP  
• Updates to Incoming Emergent/Urgent Phone Call Ambulatory SOP  
• Updates to Use of Patient’s Own Medication in the Provision of Care Medical Center Policy  
• Updates to Provision of Healthcare Services to Children Medical Center Policy, and many more.  

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

University Hospital Lobby: Women’s Restroom Temporarily Closed 

Saturday, April 5 | As part of the fire alarm upgrades project on the first floor of University Hospital, the women’s restroom near the main lobby will be temporarily closed. Signage will be installed to direct people to the nearest restrooms.  

Monthly Epic Update 

Changes go live Tuesday, April 8 | This month’s Epic updates will impact ambulatory and inpatient licensed independent practitioners, nurses, and therapy services, as well as all Epic users, Access/Patient Access Teams, and the Emergency Department. Details about the latest changes can be found in the Epic Update Bundle. Contact the Service Desk: fill out a form or call 434.924.5334. 

University Hospital: 2M Roof Replacement Project 

April 8-May 1 | 3-6 a.m. | To support University Hospital’s 2M roof replacement project, a boom truck will block one lane of traffic on Lee Street every two days. Flaggers will be on site to assist with traffic.  

Updating Access Control System Software 

Tuesday, April 8 | Starting at 9:30 a.m. | Electronic Security — in partnership with A-Tech, Lenel, and Health Information Technology — will begin updating the Access Control system software beginning with the server and following up with the appropriate updates to all clients. During this update period, which is expected to last four to eight hours, we will not be able to update access, add new users, modify door schedules, or run reports. This will not affect access within the hospital or ambulatory locations during the update. Please ensure all requests for access, new users or badges, schedules, or reports are submitted by noon on Monday, April 7, so that we can complete them before the end of the day. If you have questions regarding this update, please contact the Electronic Security Manager.  

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey  

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

New UVA Health Brand Site: Clearer Guidelines, Easier Access, More Functionality 

UVA Health is excited to announce the launch of a new and improved brand site, brand.uvahealth.com, designed to provide all team members with streamlined access to brand guidelines and standards, design templates, and digital assets. With this improved brand site, team members will find it easier than ever to create professional, on-brand materials that reflect our commitment to excellence. The guidelines provide direction on how to apply our visual identity standards to ensure a clear, consistent, and compelling brand. We encourage all team members to explore the new site, check out the FAQs, and take advantage of these enhanced resources. 

Leadership 

UVA Health Leadership Institute Virtual Info Session 

Thursday, April 10 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom (Meeting ID: 937 9062 9032, Passcode: 19aEQ^YB) | If you’re considering applying to the UVA Health Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort program now or in the future, plan to attend this virtual information session to learn more about the program’s many benefits and what you can expect from the curriculum. The session will feature first-person perspectives from HLI graduates and current cohort members serving in a variety of roles across the health system, with plenty of time for team member questions.  

In the meantime, you can learn more about HLI and the cohort leadership program application process on Connect. If you’re ready to apply, submit your application, essay, and letter of recommendation via the HLI application portal by April 30. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• A clinical trial led by Dr. Frederick Hayden into a medication that could stop the spread of COVID-19 is featured in Bloomberg. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Steven Munger participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing smell and taste disorders. 
• Dr. Daniel Sheeran is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing histotripsy, a non-invasive, liver cancer treatment now available at UVA Health. 
• Cindy Bo’s appointment as the inaugural chief of UVA Health Children’s is featured in The Daily Progress, newspapers across Virginia, and in Chief Healthcare Executive. 
• UVA Health’s 2025 expansion plans are highlighted in Virginia Business. 
• Dr. Anita Vincent-Johnson is featured on the VHHA podcast (airing on radio stations across Virginia) discussing her work as a kidney specialist and UVA’s Kidney Disease Screening and Awareness Program. 

Research 

• Dr. Daniel Cox is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing new research into type 2 diabetes treatment options. 
• Dr. Neeral Shah is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing the link between alcohol consumption and cancer. 
• Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova is featured on WPLN (Nashville NPR affiliate) discussing near-death experiences. 
• Dr. Andrew Southerland discusses the biggest health headlines of March with WJCT (Florida NPR affiliate). 

Community 

• UVA Health’s Children’s Miracle Network local champion, Grace Riedl, is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 

Education 

• Medical student James Vithoulkas co-authors an op-ed for the Lexington Herald-Leader on how potential Medicaid cuts could impact eastern Kentucky. 

Happenings 

Clinical Nurse Leader Virtual Info Session 

Tuesday, April 8 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Speak with admissions and student services team members to learn more about the role, program, financial aid options, and what you can expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Medical Center Hour | Continuity Within Chaos: Caring for Individuals Living Chronically in Shelters and on the Streets 

Wednesday, April 9 | noon-1 p.m., lunch provided to the first 60 people | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio and Zoom | Jim O'Connell, MD, President and Founder of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, will share the story of how he transitioned from the role of Internal Medicine Chief Resident at Massachusetts General Hospital to the country’s first street doctor for those experiencing homelessness. 

Advanced Practice (APRN) Virtual Info Session 

Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Hear from student ambassadors currently enrolled in the UVA School of Nursing program and speak with admissions and student services team members and faculty members to learn more about UVA’s advanced practice programs, financial aid, career opportunities, and what to expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Bryan Stevenson: In Conversation With UVA Batten Dean Ian H. Solomon 

Thursday, April 10 | 2:30-3:30 p.m. | Garrett Hall | Renowned civil rights advocate and attorney Bryan Stevenson is the recipient of the 2025 Thomas Jefferson Foundation Medal in Citizen Leadership. Stevenson is founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Alabama, and author of The New York Times bestseller, “Just Mercy.” Register. 

HUMAINE and the Future of Healthcare: Implications for Nursing Science, Education, and Practice 

Thursday, April 10 | 4-5 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker Michael Cary, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Professor, Duke University School of Nursing, AI Heath Equity Scholar, Duke University Health System, leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to study health disparities related to aging and develops strategies to improve healthcare delivery for diverse older adult populations. As co-director of HUMAINE (Human-Centered Use of Multidisciplinary Artificial Intelligence for Next-Gen Education and Research) at Duke University School of Nursing, he works to enhance AI literacy among nurses and to promote equitable AI integration in healthcare. Details. 

Hoos Research Champion Awards — Nominate a Colleague Today 

Deadline: Friday, April 11 | UVA Health is proud to launch the Hoos Research Champion Awards, a new initiative recognizing the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of research team members who enhance our culture of research excellence. Originating from the Spark Innovation Competition, this award celebrates those who conduct or support research at UVA Health. Each year, three outstanding recipients will be selected to receive a $1,000 prize, engraved award, and recognition in UVA Health publications.      

All UVA Health team members who contribute to research — such as research lab staff, clinical research coordinators, grants and contracts staff, core facility staff, and vivarium staff — are eligible. Faculty and students are not eligible. Nominations are open until April 11 and can be submitted by any UVA Health team member. Simply provide the nominee’s name, title/department, and a brief statement on why they deserve recognition. Submit a nomination. For questions, contact Danny Burdine, Director of Research Operations. Read more on Connect. 

Speaking Up About Meaningful Work: Navigating Its Power and Pitfalls 

Monday, April 14 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | Leading expert in applied positive psychology, Andrew Soren, Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, unpacks the paradox of meaningful work, exploring both its transformative potential and hidden challenges. A Medical Center Hour and CCI Learning Series talk. Details.  

Call for Nominations: 2025 Thomas Jefferson Awards 

Deadline: Monday, April 14 | noon | These awards are the highest honors given to members of the University community. Recipients exemplify the principles, ideals, and mission of the University in their character, work, and influence. Questions? Contact the Thomas Jefferson Awards Committee or Cecil Banks, Executive Director for Major Events and External Relations. Learn more. 

PhD Virtual Info Session 

Tuesday, April 15 | noon-1 p.m. | Speak with admissions and student services team members to learn more about UVA School of Nursing’s PhD programs, financial aid options, career opportunities, and what you can expect after graduation. Questions? Contact Austin Stajduhar. Register. 

Nominate: Hoos Building Bridges Award 

Deadline: Friday, April 18 | This award recognizes team members who demonstrate leadership and build thoughtful collaborations and relationships across schools, units, and/or departments that advance our work as an institution. See eligibility requirements and nominate. Questions? Email AskHR@virginia.edu. 

Run With Jim to Support Alzheimer’s Research and Patient Care 

Monday, April 21 | President Jim Ryan will run the Boston Marathon to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research and patient care at UVA Health. Join him in the fight against this disease by making a gift today. Details. Two ways to participate: 

• Give $26 to receive a special “Run With Jim” T-shirt. That’s $1 for every mile of the marathon. Wear your shirt on a run, a walk, or wherever you go to show your support for those impacted by Alzheimer’s. 
• Give $260 to sponsor President Ryan’s race singlet. Add your name or the name of someone you wish to honor — like a loved one affected by Alzheimer’s or a dedicated doctor or caregiver — to the shirt President Ryan wears during the marathon. Sponsors will also receive a "Run With Jim" T-shirt. 

UVA Research Computing Exhibition 

Wednesday, April 23 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Newcomb Hall Ballroom | This exhibition showcases the incredible research happening across UVA. Whether you are interested in sharing your research or discovering what others are working on, this exhibition offers the opportunity to see and discuss research posters, hear lightning talks from UVA faculty, learn about resources for research, explore diverse research methods, find potential collaborators, and connect with the broader research community. Free food and beverages, Details. 

Advancing Discoveries and Driving Innovation 

Wednesday, April 23 | 5-7 p.m. | The Link Lab | This event is about sparking new ideas, building connections, and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations. Attendees will share a one-minute elevator pitch about their research, so it's a great opportunity to hear what researchers are working on across Grounds. Register. 

Appreciation 

‘Best of the Best’ | Kudos for Our UVA Health Colleagues 

To best serve our community, UVA Health regularly surveys our patients on their healthcare experience. Below is a selection of feedback praising our team members:                

• “Dr. Yang and his entire staff are exemplary. As a fellow physician and former UVA Health resident physician, I can authentically say this. The care at the Outpatient Surgery Center was incredible. It is so apparent how much the entire staff enjoy being there, as the teamwork and positive energy was inspiring. I'd like to most notably recognize my post-op nurse Jen, who is gifted beyond what I've experienced. She is an absolute asset to UVA Health and made my post-surgery experience the very best it could be. Thank you to all for taking such good care of me and for reminding me what healthcare should and truly can be.” 
• “I am so excited to have Lisa Goldstein caring for me now! She has a great manner with patients and asked me questions I'd wanted care providers to ask me for years. She was very complimentary of my efforts to improve my health and was a wonderful source of information. She was respectful of my wishes for how to approach my health issues and offered me choices in how to proceed. Lisa is friendly, approachable, and is the perfect generational fit to understand her patients.” 
• “Stephanie helped me recover from an injury and wrote me a back-to-running plan that allowed me to run in the Charlottesville 10 Miler. I wasn't sure I had enough time to safely increase my mileage for the race, but the exercises and running plan got me there without pain or injury. She knew how important it was to me and helped me achieve my goal. She always gives me the information I need to understand how my physical therapy plan is going to work to strengthen weak areas. She's the best of the best.” 

Thank you to all team members for providing outstanding, compassionate, and safe care! 

Wednesday, April 2

Newsweek Ranks UVA Health University Medical Center No. 1 in Virginia 

UVA Health University Medical Center ranks as the No. 1 hospital in Virginia and among the top 50 hospitals nationally in Newsweek’s “World’s Best Hospitals 2025” guide. 

The newsmagazine rates UVA as the No. 49 hospital in the United States. 

Mitchell H. Rosner, MD, UVA’s Acting Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, says the rankings reflect the hard work of UVA Health’s team members to provide extraordinary patient care. “Every day, our team embraces our mission of transforming health and inspiring hope for all Virginians and beyond,” he says. “Our team is committed to the well-being of all the communities we serve, and this honor is a sign of that commitment.” Read more on Connect. 

Patient Care 

Expanding Use of Electronic Consents at UVA Health 

Phase 1 launches Tuesday, April 8 | As part of our commitment to improving workflows and enhancing patient care, UVA Health is expanding the use of electronic consents (e-consents) across the system. The expansion will occur in two phases, with Phase 1 launching on April 8. This phase includes updates to existing e-consent forms, the introduction of new blood e-consents for five early adopter groups, and workflow adjustments for inpatient doctors, APPs, and perioperative teams. Phase 2, planned for summer 2025, will introduce additional e-consents, including those for anesthesia, nerve blocks, ICU procedures, and more.     

To prepare for Phase 1 — providers, nurses, and perioperative team members should familiarize themselves with the updated procedural and surgical consents:   

• Review ELL tip sheet: Obtaining E-Consents With Blood.  
• Early adopter providers in Orthopedics, Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Vascular Surgery, and UVA Health Imaging must complete a brief Workday training module by April 8.    

More details on Phase 2 will be shared later this spring. Thank you for your support as we enhance our electronic documentation processes for a more streamlined and efficient patient experience. 

Operations 

Monthly Update: Clinical and Operational Documents 

Having a working knowledge of policies and other clinical and operational documents relevant to your role and responsibilities at University Medical Center supports quality patient care and regulatory compliance. Learn What’s New in Clinical and Operational Documents. This month’s highlights include:   

• New Spontaneous Breathing Trial (SBT) for Adult Mechanical Ventilation Liberation SOP 
• Updates to Incoming Emergent/Urgent Phone Call Ambulatory SOP 
• Updates to Use of Patient’s Own Medication in the Provision of Care Medical Center Policy 
• Updates to Provision of Healthcare Services to Children Medical Center Policy, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

University Hospital Lobby: Women’s Restroom Temporarily Closed 

Saturday, April 5 | As part of the fire alarm upgrades project on the first floor of University Hospital, the women’s restroom near the main lobby will be temporarily closed. Signage will be installed to direct people to the nearest restrooms. 

Updating Access Control System Software 

Tuesday, April 8 | Starting at 9:30 a.m. | Electronic Security in partnership with A-Tech, Lenel, and Health Information Technology will begin updating the Access Control system software. This update will begin by updating the server and following up with the appropriate updates to all clients. During this update period, which is expected to last between 4 and 8 hours, we will not be able to update access, add new users, modify door schedules, or run reports. This will not affect access within the hospital or ambulatory locations during the update. Please ensure all requests for access, new users or badges, schedules, or reports are submitted by noon on Monday, April 7, so that we can complete them before the end of the day. If you have questions regarding this update, please contact the Electronic Security Manager. 

Clinical Team Members: Help Improve Epic — Share Your Feedback in the Epic Experience Survey 

Deadline: Monday, April 21 | UVA Health is conducting a nationally benchmarked Epic Experience Survey to better understand the clinician experience and identify opportunities across our health system for improving Epic. Clinical team members (including but not limited to physicians, APPs, nurses, medical assistants, therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and technicians) who interact with patients and use Epic in their daily work should complete the survey no later than April 21. Your collective input is essential in shaping the future of our electronic medical record system. Thank you for providing feedback. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Strengthening Our Foundation: Expanding Our NICU to Serve More Families 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, discusses expanding our NICU to add 40 more beds. Read more. 

Happenings 

Micro Health Breaks 

Through Thursday, May 15 | Zoom | Take a 10-minute break to refresh your mind and body with this eight-week series. These quick, engaging, virtual sessions offer benefits like improved flexibility, reduced anxiety, enhanced energy, and a stronger mind-body connection — perfect for fitting wellness into your busy day. Learn more and see the full schedule. 

April Is National Occupational Therapy Month 

The Occupational Therapy (OT) Department is an integral part of our patients’ recovery throughout the health system. UVA Health team members provide OT services across the spectrum of care in all adult ICUs and acute care units; PACU/extended stay and the Emergency Department; inpatient and outpatient pediatric patients in UVA Health Children's; and psychiatric OT on the Behavioral Health unit. Our OTs start the rehabilitation process, optimize independence with self-care, provide thermoplastic splinting for protection and positioning, facilitate early and safe functional mobilization, and help facilitate safe and successful discharge planning. Please join us in showing appreciation for our wonderful OT colleagues! 

Medical Center Hour | Continuity Within Chaos: Caring for Individuals Living Chronically in Shelters and on the Streets 

Wednesday, April 9 | noon-1 p.m., lunch provided to the first 60 people | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio and Zoom | Jim O'Connell, MD, President and Founder of Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, will share the story of how he transitioned from the role of Internal Medicine Chief Resident at Massachusetts General Hospital to the country’s first street doctor for those experiencing homelessness. 

ECHO: The 5 Ms of Obesity Management 

This series aims to enhance clinician competence in obesity management by offering expert-led sessions across essential domains, fostering better patient outcomes through interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. All sessions are noon-1 p.m. Register.    

• Thursday, April 10 | Mind: Mind Over Matter — How Mental Health Impacts Obesity    
• Thursday, April 24 | Move: Move More, Weigh Less — How Exercise Combats Obesity    
• Thursday, May 8 | Medications: From Struggle to Solutions — Can New Medications End the Obesity Epidemic? 

YOU@UVA Leadership Program 

Application deadline: Thursday, April 10 | This six-month dynamic professional development initiative is aimed at fostering leadership, mentorship, and research excellence across UVA’s diverse academic and clinical landscape. This program is specifically tailored for faculty, trainees, and clinical research professional staff, equipping them with the skills and networks to thrive in leadership roles while driving impactful research. Kickoff lunch is April 22. Learn more. Apply. Questions? Contact Jennifer Phillips, RN, CCRC. 

National Summit for Building Healthy Academic Communities 

April 10-11 | Kimpton's The Forum Hotel | Learn best practices for creating healthier academic environments from renowned experts in health and well-being and how to apply these best practices through workshops and networking opportunities. Hoos Well hosts. Learn more and register. 

Hoos Research Champion Awards — Nominate a Colleague Today 

Deadline: Friday, April 11 | UVA Health is proud to launch the Hoos Research Champion Awards, a new initiative recognizing the dedication, expertise, and teamwork of research team members who enhance our culture of research excellence. Originating from the Spark Innovation Competition, this award celebrates those who conduct or support research at UVA Health. Each year, three outstanding recipients will be selected to receive a $1,000 prize, engraved award, and recognition in UVA Health publications.     

All UVA Health team members who contribute to research — such as research lab staff, clinical research coordinators, grants and contracts staff, core facility staff, and vivarium staff — are eligible. Faculty and students are not eligible. Nominations are open until April 11 and can be submitted by any UVA Health team member. Simply provide the nominee’s name, title/department, and a brief statement on why they deserve recognition. Submit a nomination. For questions, contact Danny Burdine, Director of Research Operations. Read more on Connect. 

Redesigning the U.S.'s Broken Health System: The Nursing Profession's Role in Ending Unequal Treatment 

Wednesday, April 16 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall Conference Center Auditorium and Zoom | UVA School of Nursing is pleased to announce that Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD, MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAAN — a leading scholar in social determinants of health, adolescent mental and sexual health, and a Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing nurse scientist — has been chosen to be the 2025 McGehee Lecturer. Details. 

Affinity Dialogue Session: Enhancing Decision-Making for Better Outcomes 

Thursday, April 17 | 2-3 p.m. | Bavaro Hall, Holloway Hall Room 116 | Join colleagues from across UVA for a collaborative session focused on improving decision-making of all types — strategic, tactical, and operational. Come share and explore practical approaches to make decisions more effectively and drive successful organizational results. Sponsored by UVA Organizational Excellence. Register. 

The Enemy Within — How Does the Immune System Sense DNA as Danger? 

Thursday, April 17 | 3-4 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building Auditorium | The 2025 John F. Anderson Distinguished Lecture will be presented by Zhijian “James” Chen, PhD, Professor, Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center. Refreshments follow the lecture. Read more. 

UVA Radiology 2025 Tegtmeyer Lecture: Video Game Medicine and Translational Team Science 

Thursday, April 17 | 5-6 p.m. | Educational Resource Center, Auditorium A | Zoom | UVA Health Radiology's 16th annual installment of its Tegtmeyer Lecture Series features speaker Brad Wood, MD, who serves as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Chief of Interventional Radiology and is the founding director of the NIH Center for Interventional Oncology. The talk will cover a wide span of topics including medical devices, robots, and artificial intelligence. Details. 

Virginia Academy of Science Annual Meeting 

Thursday, May 22 | The 103rd Annual Meeting of the Virginia Academy of Science (VAS) will be held at the University of Virginia. Agenda includes post and oral presentations, lectures, and an awards ceremony. A council meeting will be held Friday, May 23. Questions? Contact VAS Vice President, Craig Group, Program Chair for the annual meeting. See schedule and register. 

Trauma Survivors Network's Race to Rebuild 

Saturday, May 31 | 9 a.m. | Lakeside Middle School | A walk/run/cycle/roll event to support trauma survivors as they survive, connect, and rebuild after a serious injury. Benefits the Trauma Survivors Network. Learn more and sign up. Questions? Contact Brittany Nash, LCSW, UVA Health Trauma Survivor Network Coordinator. 

3rd Annual UVA Health Interdisciplinary Quality Improvement/Patient Safety (QI/PS) Showcase 

Tuesday, June 10 | 11:30-1:30 p.m. | Education Resource Center, Room A | Recognizing local improvements in QI/PS from all disciplines. Any UVA faculty member, staff member, fellow resident, postdoc, graduate student, or medical student who has engaged in implementation and assessment of a QI/PS project is eligible to download and submit a form and abstract by 11:59 p.m., April 14, to QIPSshowcase@uvahealth.org. Accepting works in progress and QI/PS projects. Authors of abstracts selected for presentation will be notified by May 1. 

Appreciation 

‘Transforming Cardiovascular Care for All’ 

Congratulations to Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC, UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center cardiologist, who is the new President of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) — an almost 60,000-member, global cardiovascular organization dedicated to “transforming cardiovascular care for all.” 

“I see significant challenges and opportunities for the field of cardiology in the coming years,” says Dr. Kramer, adding that he’s looking forward to helping ACC lead, while getting to know more of its membership and hearing their concerns and achievements. 

Dr. Kramer previously served as ACC’s Vice President and Treasurer — and as Chair of the organization’s Imaging Council. 

He joined UVA School of Medicine faculty in 1999 and became Chief of the Cardiovascular Division in 2019. His principal research interest has been the application of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging to the cardiovascular system in translational and clinical studies. He was awarded a Gold Medal by the Society of Magnetic Resonance for extraordinary contributions to the field. 

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