UVA Health Leadership Transition

From Mitchell Rosner, MD, MACP, Acting Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Henry B. Mulholland Professor of Medicine: “I am writing as a follow-up to the message distributed by President Ryan and Rector Hardie Tuesday evening regarding the executive leadership transition of UVA Health. 

“I understand that any change comes with uncertainty, but I also know that I won’t be able to do this role without the support of all of you across our great health system. 

“I stand beside all of you in our commitment to the care and well-being of all the communities we serve. We have a collective mission to transform health and inspire hope for all Virginians and beyond. Of equal importance, we have a shared dedication to taking care of each other, which is a powerful element of the UVA Health culture that I have cherished in my time here. Please know that I am committed to support each and every one of you to ensure we continue to deliver the extraordinary care our patients expect from UVA Health. In addition, we will continue to focus on making our institution a great place to work.”  

Read the full message on KnowledgeLink. 

Patient Care 

Medical Care During Ramadan 

Ramadan will begin on the evening of Friday, Feb. 28, and ends at sundown on Sunday, March 29. One of the fundamental principles in observing this holy month for followers of Islam is fasting during daylight, which includes not taking oral medications. Please be aware of this custom and ask patients if they will be observing Ramadan. If so, it would be prudent to discuss a medication plan with them to ensure optimal medical care while they observe this holy month. Read more on Connect. 

Vent Box Updates 

Effective Monday, March 3 | The “Staff Attestation” form will be added to airway boxes and must be completed before requesting an airway box exchange. This form can be found in the sleeve that is located on top of the vent box. If the airway box is opened during an aerosol generating procedure, this must be recorded on the attestation form and all contents (excluding the needle valve) must be properly disposed. 

Update to Epic Health Maintenance Plan for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes 

On Tuesday, March 4, the Epic Health Maintenance plan for diabetes mellitus will be updated to include all diabetic (Type 2) patients who receive their primary care at UVA Health as well as patients on the Accountable Care Organization registry or on one of our value-based care registries. This health maintenance plan offers provider and patient reminders and tracking for things like Hemoglobin A1C, eye exam, foot exam, etc. — helping more of our diabetic patients get the care they need. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Saturday, March 1; reopens Sunday, March 9 | Facilities Management is replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Elevator Lobby. This will occur on the fourth level (C) and these doors will be closed during replacement. Another door will be available closer to the railroad tracks and signage will be placed to help with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | Get to Know the Echocardiography Team: A Small but Mighty Team With Heart 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, highlights a dedicated team that enhances cardiac health and wellness for our adult patients. Read more. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Jennifer Payne is featured locally, across Virginia, on TV stations nationally, and media outlets around the world discussing new research into how common menopause symptoms are among younger women. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Michael Ayers participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing sports cardiology. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights our plans to open an after-hours orthopedic clinic in March. 
• Mobile Mammography Coordinator Amy Pennington and Dr. Timothy Rooney are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing our new mobile mammography coach. 
• Dr. Cate Varney talks with Medscape about the importance of incorporating mental health care into the treatment of obesity. 
• Dr. Ross Buerlein is featured locally and in Roanoke discussing a new procedure to treat pancreatic cysts. 

Research 

• Dr. Melissa Little is featured in USA Today and more than 50 outlets nationally discussing hiccups caused by nicotine use. 
• Dr. Kara Anderson’s research into the benefits of high-intensity exercise are featured in the Telegraph (one of the UK’s largest papers) and Yahoo. 
• Dr. Susanna Keller and Associate Professor Sibylle Kranz talk with WVTF (Virginia NPR affiliate) about their research showing that genetics impacts your weight more than your diet. 
• Research from the Division of Perceptual Studies into near-death experiences is featured in newspapers across the UK. 

Community 

• CBS19 highlights the annual Bill Howard Golf tournament, which raises money for our Alzheimer’s Research Center. 

Education 

• UVA School of Nursing Dean Marianne Baernholdt is featured in more than 100 outlets nationwide in an Associated Press story discussing the donations of Bill and Joanne Conway to support nursing education. 

Human Resources 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Wednesday, March 5 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

Show Your Stripes on Rare Disease Day 

Friday, Feb. 28 | Rare Disease Day is an internationally recognized day and initiative to raise awareness, generate support, and advocate for care and treatment for 300 million people globally. The zebra is the official mascot for rare disease patients. Historically, medical professionals were told that when they “hear hoofbeats,” they should not expect to see a zebra. In other words, look for the more common answer, a horse. Today, we know that 1 in 10 Americans is a zebra! It’s not always obvious to recognize or diagnose a person with a rare disease (a zebra). As a result, this can cause a delay in care and often negatively impacts a person’s quality of life or life expectancy. On Feb. 28, use #ShowYourStripes on social media and wear stripes to start conversations to help others learn about the prevalence and challenges of rare diseases.  

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 

• Saturday, March 1 | noon | UVA Men’s Basketball vs. Clemson | UVA Health colorectal cancer surgeon Charles Friel, MD, who was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer two years ago, will be recognized in an on-court event during the game.  
• Friday, March 7 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Inflatable Colon in University Hospital Cafeteria | Team members, patients, and visitors can walk through the colon and talk to the team about colorectal cancer screening.  
• March 7-9 | South Tower Lighting | The South Tower will be lighted blue over the weekend in honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. 

Innovation in Education Week 

March 3-7 | This annual event serves as an opportunity to celebrate original scholarship produced by members of the UVA School of medicine community, to provide networking opportunities, and to welcome accomplished internal and external scholars who will provide professional development through keynote presentations. Hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education. See the full lineup of events. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, March 4 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | Recent winter weather caused many blood donation cancelations. As such, our blood supply has dropped to critical levels. Please consider donating! Help save lives and empower your health. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: give in March and you’ll receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Additionally, Red Cross is offering free A1C testing for all who successfully donate blood, platelets, or plasma. Details.   

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.           

• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future        
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Team Member Art Day 

Friday, March 7 | 1-3 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA and UVA Health. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

New Training Program: Excellence in Clinical Trials: Practical Skills for Principal Investigators 

Thursdays, April 24, May 1, May 8, May 15 | 3-5 p.m. | MR5, Room 3005 | An ideal program for first-time principal investigators (PIs), aspiring PIs, and clinical researchers looking to enhance their skills in managing clinical trials. Supported by the UVA School of Medicine Clinical Trials Unit and the integrated Translational Health Research Institute of Virginia (iTHRIV). Dowload the flyer or visit the site. Apply. 

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 

‘One of the Most Affirming Experiences of My Life’ | 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:           

• “As a transgender person, medical interactions can be stressful because I'm outing myself to total strangers to get the care I need. I am grateful for the staff, nurses, and doctors who participated in my surgery. They treated me with dignity and compassion. When I was at my most vulnerable, naked, unconscious, and unable to hide my transgender identity, the medical team created a space where I felt safe. The whole surgical experience was genuinely one of the most affirming experiences of my life.” 
• “Elizabeth Good is wonderful. Even though I only see her once a year, she remembers me and makes the visit very personal. She is a terrific listener and is interested in my overall health, not just the cancer-related issues.” 
• “My appointment was moved from North Ridge to Battle Building on the morning of the appointment due to a power outage. I was so impressed by the staff's willingness and ability to adjust, and how smoothly it went — as I imagine that it was a very stressful day for everyone taking care of patients and was quite a heavy lift to accomplish. I hope the entire team from both locations received the appropriate kudos for their efforts, flexibility, and dedication.” 

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

Previous Updates

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

• Saturday, March 1 | noon | UVA Men’s Basketball vs. Clemson | UVA Health colorectal cancer surgeon Charles Friel, MD, who was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer two years ago, will be recognized in an on-court event during the game.  
• Friday, March 7 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Inflatable Colon in University Hospital Cafeteria | Team members, patients, and visitors can walk through the colon and talk to the team about colorectal cancer screening.  
• March 7-9 | South Tower Lighting | The South Tower will be lighted blue over the weekend in honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. 

Patient Care 

Medical Care During Ramadan 

Ramadan will begin on the evening of Friday, Feb. 28, and ends at sundown on Sunday, March 29. One of the fundamental principles in observing this holy month for followers of Islam is fasting during daylight, which includes not taking oral medications. Please be aware of this custom and ask patients if they will be observing Ramadan. If so, it would be prudent to discuss a medication plan with them to ensure optimal medical care while they observe this holy month. Read more on Connect. 

Vent Box Updates 

Effective Monday, March 3 | The “Staff Attestation” form will be added to airway boxes and must be completed before requesting an airway box exchange. This form can be found in the sleeve that is located on top of the vent box. If the airway box is opened during an aerosol generating procedure, this must be recorded on the attestation form and all contents (excluding the needle valve) must be properly disposed. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Saturday, March 1; reopens Sunday, March 9 | Facilities Management is replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Elevator Lobby. This will occur on the fourth level (C) and these doors will be closed during replacement. Another door will be available closer to the railroad tracks and signage will be placed to help with wayfinding. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:         
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.  
  • Make a monetary donation.  
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.  
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).    
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Nominate: 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues for their extraordinary accomplishments of the past year! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

February Is Black History Month 

Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week University Medical Center Junior Volunteer Summer Program in Charlottesville. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please email Maureen Oswald. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, March 4 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | Recent winter weather caused many blood donation cancelations. As such, our blood supply has dropped to critical levels. Please consider donating! Help save lives and empower your health. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: Give in March and you’ll receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Additionally, Red Cross is offering free A1C testing for all who successfully donate blood, platelets, or plasma. Details.   

Team Member Art Day  

Friday, March 7 | 1-3 p.m. | Dining Conference Rooms 1, 2, and 3 | Drop in for a creative break in your day. All art supplies will be provided. Hosted by The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA and UVA Health. Free for all UVA Health team members. 

2025 Joint SAHMS and Agnes Dillon Randolph Nursing History Conference 

March 14-15 | UVA School of Nursing | The 2025 Joint Meeting of Southern Association for the History of Medicine and Science (SAHMS) and the Eleanor Crowder Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry Agnes Dillon Randolph International Nursing History Conference is an interdisciplinary event on topics related to the history of medicine, science, nursing, and healthcare. Details. Questions? Contact Dominique Tobbell or Maura Singleton. 

Charlottesville Ten Miler 

Saturday, March 22 | Downtown Charlottesville | Details | This year marks the 50th running of the race, a milestone event that celebrates decades of tradition and community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance race, this event is the perfect way to experience the beauty and spirit of Charlottesville. If you’re a UVA Health team member: 

• Cheer | A cheer zone to support runners during the race will be set up outside the Team Member Gym.    
• Free entry | Twenty-five complimentary race entries are available to team members. These will be distributed through a lottery. Applications for the lottery can be picked up and submitted at the front desk in the Team Member Gym, with the final drawing taking place on Feb. 28.    
• Group run | Every Thursday until March 20 a short run will be hosted weekly at 5:30 a.m., departing from the Team Member Gym. All paces are welcome. 

Appreciation 

‘Bursting With Pride!’ 

The Joint Commission has awarded Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification to UVA Health University Medical Center and Orthopedic Center Ivy Road (OCIR). 

This is the premier certification for total joint replacement surgery. Obtaining this certification validates outstanding patient outcomes through standardized clinical care guided by evidenced-based guidelines, requiring programs to meet prescriptive metrics set by The Joint Commission. These metrics are standardized performance measures the program must monitor monthly and submit regularly, such as ambulation on the day of surgery or patient discharge to home. Advanced Certification also encompasses the entire continuum of care from initial clinic visit to surgery and throughout post-operative follow up. 

“The entire team is bursting with pride on achieving advanced certification at both our operative locations. It required months of preparation and dedication. To see that effort be rewarded is amazing,” says Amber Dillon, RN, MSN, Clinical Program Coordinator, UVA Health Joint Replacement Program. 

Congratulations to the entire Joint Replacement team! 

Monday, Feb. 24

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Tuesday, March 4 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | Recent winter weather caused many blood donation cancelations. As such, our blood supply has dropped to critical levels. Please consider donating! Help save lives and empower your health. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: Give in March and you’ll receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Additionally, Red Cross is offering free A1C testing for all who successfully donate blood, platelets, or plasma. Details.  

Patient Care 

Medical Care During Ramadan 

Ramadan will begin on the evening of Friday, Feb. 28, and ends at sundown on Sunday, March 29. One of the fundamental principles in observing this holy month for followers of Islam is fasting during daylight, which includes not taking oral medications. Please be aware of this custom and ask patients if they will be observing Ramadan. If so, it would be prudent to discuss a medication plan with them to ensure optimal medical care while they observe this holy month. Read more on Connect. 

Vent Box Updates 

Effective Monday, March 3 | The “Staff Attestation” form will be added to airway boxes and must be completed before requesting an airway box exchange. This form can be found in the sleeve that is located on top of the vent box. If the airway box is opened during an aerosol generating procedure, this must be recorded on the attestation form and all contents (excluding the needle valve) must be properly disposed.    

Operations 

New East Gate Hours 

Effective Monday, Feb. 24 | In response to team member requests, East Gate door hours will be expanded to open 30 minutes earlier. The new hours are 4:30 a.m.-9 p.m. 

Human Resources 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures  

The team at UVA Health LASIK Northridge is pleased to share that all UVA Health and UVA academic team members and all UVA students are eligible for a 10% discount on LASIK procedures. LASIK is not covered by most insurance plans (including the UVA Health Plan). The out-of-pocket cost is $2,500 per eye, so UVA employees and students can save $250 per eye. To receive the discount, simply inform the scheduling team that you are a UVA employee or student when you schedule your initial evaluation with the clinic. To make an appointment, call 434.982.2010. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:        
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center. 
  • Make a monetary donation. 
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. 
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).   
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Why Artificial Intelligence Matters in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Feb. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio, Room 1110 | As the healthcare industry evolves — and artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of taking on more tasks — its adoption can begin to solve problems across the entire patient care journey. This is a UPG-facilitated education and discussion session with experts from Advisory Board. 

Medical Center Hour | Humanizing Healthcare: Using Narratives for Advocacy and Improving Patient Doctor Communication 

Wednesday, Feb. 26 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Speaker Shirlene Obuobi, MD, has presented at conferences and collaborated on medical research published in academic journals. Her research interests include health equity and narrative and graphic medical communications that use storytelling or comic book formats to educate at-risk and underserved populations about cardiovascular disease. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.          

• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)       
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future       
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD

Nominate: 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues for their extraordinary accomplishments of the past year! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

February Is Black History Month 

• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 

• Saturday, March 1 | noon | UVA Men’s Basketball vs. Clemson | UVA Health colorectal cancer surgeon Charles Friel, MD, who was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer two years ago, will be recognized in an on-court event during the game. 
• Friday, March 7 | 8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Inflatable Colon in University Hospital Cafeteria | Team members, patients, and visitors can walk through the colon and talk to the team about colorectal cancer screening. 
• March 7-9 | South Tower Lighting | The South Tower will be lighted blue over the weekend in honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. 

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: 

• Friday, March 7 | 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. 
• Tuesday, March 11 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Wednesday, March 19 | 8-11 a.m. 
• Thursday, March 27 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Monday, March 31 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Appreciation 

Black History Month | Bringing Visions to Life: Maurice Gough 

Originally from Buckingham County, Virginia — Maurice Gough joined UVA Health in Charlottesville in 2007, first as a Medical Aide in Patient Transportation, then working in the storeroom, and rising to Trades Utility Senior. Now, he’s nearly two decades into his UVA Health career. 

“I enjoy working with people as my role is to help set up their displays and events,” Gough explains, adding that Office of Diversity and Community Engagement, UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and UVA School of Nursing team members are wonderful to work with. 

What does Black History Month mean to Gough? “It's a time to remember those who suffered for the color of their skin and those who gave their voice to create change,” he explains. “But most of all — to celebrate how far we have come, and yet, how far we still have to go.” Read more on Connect. 

Friday, Feb. 21

Nominate: 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues for their extraordinary accomplishments of the past year! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

Patient Care 

Medical Care During Ramadan 

Ramadan will begin on the evening of Friday, Feb. 28, and ends at sundown on Sunday, March 29. One of the fundamental principles in observing this holy month for followers of Islam is fasting during daylight, which includes not taking oral medications. Please be aware of this custom and ask patients if they will be observing Ramadan. If so, it would be prudent to discuss a medication plan with them to ensure optimal medical care while they observe this holy month. Read more on Connect. 

Vent Box Updates 

Effective Monday, March 3 | The “Staff Attestation” form will be added to airway boxes and must be completed before requesting an airway box exchange. This form can be found in the sleeve that is located on top of the vent box. If the airway box is opened during an aerosol generating procedure, this must be recorded on the attestation form and all contents (excluding the needle valve) must be properly disposed.    

Operations 

Temporary Switch to Liquid Eggs 

Due to the supply uncertainty around shell eggs, we are temporarily serving pasteurized liquid eggs in our retail dining locations and patient meals. Our eggs are still 100% real, 100% pasteurized, and 100% delicious. 

Construction Impact: Jefferson Park Avenue Lane Shift 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | As part of the Linear Accelerator Replacement Project on the ground floor of the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), equipment will be delivered via crane. A section of sidewalk and one lane of Jefferson Park Avenue near the ECCCC and the Education Resource Center (ERC) loading dock area will be temporarily shifted to accommodate the delivery. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Jefferson Park Avenue. Signage will be installed the week of Feb. 17 to indicate which parking spaces near the loading dock area will be temporarily unavailable during the work. Questions? Contact Ryan Dewyea or Mark Humbertson. 

New East Gate Hours 

Effective Monday, Feb. 24 | In response to team member requests, East Gate door hours will be expanded to open 30 minutes earlier. The new hours are 4:30 a.m.-9 p.m. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Kanwar Singh is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing renal denervation to treat high blood pressure. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Adanna Akujuo participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing atrial fibrillation. 
• Dr. Kim Penberthy is featured on radio stations across Virginia discussing the wintertime blues. 
• Dr. Kelly Wingerter and Dr. Nisha Hosadurg are featured in Richmond discussing women’s heart health. 
• Dr. Jennifer Payne is featured in Texas and Michigan discussing insomnia therapy for pregnant women. 
• Associate Professor of Nursing Emma Mitchell is featured locally and in Roanoke discussing HPV self-test kits. 

Research 

• Dr. Melanie Rutkowski’s research into how to turn a failed ovarian cancer treatment into a lifesaver is featured locally and on MedPage Today. 
• Dr. Marieta Pehlivanova is highlighted in Baltimore and TV stations nationally discussing near-death experiences. 
• Dr. Emily McGowan is featured in Medscape discussing new guidance on treating esophageal dysfunction. 
• Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton is featured on the Century Lives podcast discussing menopause. 
• Dr. Kyle Enfield talks with WRIC in Richmond to dispel the myth that you’ll catch a cold by going outside during winter. 

Community 

• Director of Ambulatory Pharmacy Justin Vesser and Health Equity Research Outreach Specialist Claudette Grant are featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing UVA Health’s participation in the Dunbar Health Fair. 

Education 

• A Cincinnati TV station features Dr. Marcus Martin, the first African American chair of a clinical department at the UVA School of Medicine. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:       
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.
  • Make a monetary donation.
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.  
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).  
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky | The Art of Aleona Isakova 

Through Wednesday, March 12 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky.” Pictured: Inspired by African Ankara fabric Giclee with gold, hand-painted. Stop by and check it out! 

TDIC 2025: Cultural Humility in Medicine and Medical Education 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:15 a.m. | 3rd Floor Auditorium, Claude Moore Medical Education Building | Free | Registration Required | The seventh annual Trainee Diversity and Inclusion Conference (TDIC) aims to empower attendees to better serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Keynote speaker Jaya Aysola, MD, MPH, Assistant Dean of Inclusion and Diversity and Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Founder and Executive Director, Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, shares insights from working with health systems to operationalize equity for marginalized populations. Further discussion facilitated by UVA Housestaff Council for Diversity and Inclusion and key members of our local community. Faculty, attendings, residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses, UVA Health and UVA staff, and all other interested healthcare providers and educators also are invited to join. Lunch included.     

February Is Black History Month 

• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).        
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

Why Artificial Intelligence Matters in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Feb. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio, Room 1110 | As the healthcare industry evolves — and artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of taking on more tasks — its adoption can begin to solve problems across the entire patient care journey. This is a UPG-facilitated education and discussion session with experts from Advisory Board. Pre-meeting reception starts at 5 p.m. Registration and accreditation information. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.        

• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)       
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future       
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Appreciation 

‘A Doctor of the Soul’ | 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:           

• “This was the best ER I have ever been to. The facility was very nice and felt clean and organized. Everything ran so efficiently, and I felt so cared for: from the valet to the person who wheeled me in on the chair, registration, and those taking my vitals. My lab work was done so smoothly and with little pain. The doctors and nurses and all who helped me treated me like a human being in a moment where I was exhausted and scared, which is something the ER in my hometown does not do. Thank you so much. The kindness, care, and quickness does not go unnoticed, and I am so grateful for everyone who helped me.” 
• “Wanda at the front desk is always greeting me with her beautiful smile and a sincere ‘hello’ or ‘good morning,’ I feel like I am one of her best friends.” 
• “Nurses were all top-notch; very kind and responsive. No wait for anything we needed. They were there. A huge shout out to UVA nursing student, Swatha, who went above and beyond. She was very compassionate and had a good sense of humor which helped relax this nervous momma.” 
• “Dr. MacKnight is better than the best! He is more than my doctor; he is my friend. He has the ability to be not only a doctor of the body, but he is equally a doctor of the soul.”  

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

Wednesday, Feb. 19

Tomorrow: Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Operations 

Temporary Switch to Liquid Eggs 

Due to the supply uncertainty around shell eggs, we are temporarily serving pasteurized liquid eggs in our retail dining locations and patient meals. Our eggs are still 100% real, 100% pasteurized, and 100% delicious. 

Construction Impact: Jefferson Park Avenue Lane Shift 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | As part of the Linear Accelerator Replacement Project on the ground floor of the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), equipment will be delivered via crane. A section of sidewalk and one lane of Jefferson Park Avenue near the ECCCC and the Education Resource Center (ERC) loading dock area will be temporarily shifted to accommodate the delivery. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Jefferson Park Avenue. Signage will be installed the week of Feb. 17 to indicate which parking spaces near the loading dock area will be temporarily unavailable during the work. Questions? Contact Ryan Dewyea or Mark Humbertson. 

Leadership 

University Medical Center CEO Blog | ASPIRE Day 2025 

In her latest Vision and Voice blog, Wendy Horton, PharmD, MBA, FACHE, offers a first glance at last week's ASPIRE Day photos at University Medical Center. Read more. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:       
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.
  • Make a monetary donation.
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).  
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women.      
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies.      
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes.      
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.”    
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Webinars: Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day 

Feb. 22 is Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day. The Structural Heart and Valve program will be discussing several valve disorders:  

• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Transcatheter Interventions for Mitral Regurgitation With Jeff Chidester, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Dr. Chidester will discuss the treatment options for mitral regurgitation in the cath lab. (Meeting ID: 993 7035 5229; password: 2TWtP$8Y)    
• Lunch and Learn Series: Tricuspid Valve Disease and Treatment With John Saxon, MD | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Saxon will discuss tricuspid valve disease and treatment. If you plan on attending in person, please email JeanMarie O’Malley. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the presentation will start at noon. Room capacity is 30 people (Meeting ID: 934 2206 1834; password: Rb5rfV7?) 

February Is Black History Month 

• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Zoom | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).        
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend the Feb. 21 information session — registration required. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. For consideration, please contact the EWYL team by March 1. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

TDIC 2025: Cultural Humility in Medicine and Medical Education 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:15 a.m. | 3rd Floor Auditorium, Claude Moore Medical Education Building | Free | Registration Required | The seventh annual Trainee Diversity and Inclusion Conference (TDIC) aims to empower attendees to better serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Keynote speaker Jaya Aysola, MD, MPH, Assistant Dean of Inclusion and Diversity and Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Founder and Executive Director, Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, shares insights from working with health systems to operationalize equity for marginalized populations. Further discussion facilitated by UVA Housestaff Council for Diversity and Inclusion and key members of our local community. Faculty, attendings, residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses, UVA Health and UVA staff, and all other interested healthcare providers and educators also are invited to join. Lunch included.     

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

Why Artificial Intelligence Matters in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Feb. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio, Room 1110 | As the healthcare industry evolves — and artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of taking on more tasks — its adoption can begin to solve problems across the entire patient care journey. This is a UPG-facilitated education and discussion session with experts from Advisory Board. 

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week University Medical Center Junior Volunteer Summer Program in Charlottesville. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please email Maureen Oswald. 

Charlottesville Ten Miler 

Saturday, March 22 | Downtown Charlottesville | Details | This year marks the 50th running of the race, a milestone event that celebrates decades of tradition and community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance race, this event is the perfect way to experience the beauty and spirit of Charlottesville. If you’re a UVA Health team member:   

• Cheer | A cheer zone to support runners during the race will be set up outside the Team Member Gym.   
• Free entry | Twenty-five complimentary race entries are available to team members. These will be distributed through a lottery. Applications for the lottery can be picked up and submitted at the front desk in the Team Member Gym, with the final drawing taking place on Feb. 28.   
• Group run | Every Thursday until March 20 a short run will be hosted weekly at 5:30 a.m., departing from the Team Member Gym. All paces are welcome. 

Appreciation 

4 UVA Health Teams Earn National Patient Experience Awards 

Four teams at UVA Health University Medical Center have been honored with national patient experience awards based on top ratings from patients. 

The teams have earned the HX Pinnacle of Excellence Award from Press Ganey, which supports healthcare providers nationwide to improve overall safety, quality, and experience of care. The award-winning teams are: 

• Hematology/Oncology Clinic West at UVA Cancer Center’s Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center 
• Hematology/Oncology Clinic East at UVA Cancer Center’s Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center 
• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center Fontaine 
• UVA Health University Medical Center Outpatient Services 

The awards recognize healthcare teams who have maintained consistent levels of excellent patient experiences for three years based on the results of patient surveys. Patients were asked about factors that included their likelihood to recommend the clinic or area, the care providers’ teamwork, and their overall rating of the clinic or area. Congratulations to these teams! Read more. 

Monday, Feb. 17

This Week: Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Patient Care 

Need an Appointment?  

• Employee Primary Care is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., to all UVA Health team members enrolled in UVA Aetna health insurance. Call 434.297.4082 for an appointment. Self-scheduling options are also available online and through MyChart.   
• Same Day Care offers same-day appointments Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. It is recommended to call your UVA Health primary care physician (PCP) office first. If you're unable to reach them, or if you do not have a UVA Health PCP, call 434.982.3040 to schedule an appointment.  
• Virtual Urgent Care is available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Patients can self-schedule appointments via MyChart - Talk to Virtual Care Fast. No MyChart account is required to access this service.  
• Weekends: If you’re looking for care on a weekend, Primary Care Riverside is open Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon. Call 434.975.7700 for an appointment. 

New Charlottesville-Based Mobile Mammography Unit 

The UVA Health Breast Care Center and the Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging are receiving a new mobile mammography unit. It will screen its first patients today, Monday, Feb. 17. Highlights of the new unit:  

• Offers patients a comfortable experience as well as cutting-edge, 3D mammography technology.  
• The new, state-of-the-art 3D mammography system is the same one in place at UVA Health’s permanent mammography locations. That means our mobile mammography patients experience the exact same imaging quality and comfort as our other patients.  
• Smaller (by 11 feet!), allowing it to reach patients the previous unit couldn’t, thus expanding access to UVA Health’s world-class care to more people in our communities.  
• All mammograms are read by UVA Health’s subspecialty-trained breast imaging radiologists, who have the highest level of training and expertise possible in interpreting breast images.  

Learn more and view the mobile unit’s regular central Virginia screening locations. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: Jefferson Park Avenue Lane Shift 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | As part of the Linear Accelerator Replacement Project on the ground floor of the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), equipment will be delivered via crane. A section of sidewalk and one lane of Jefferson Park Avenue near the ECCCC and the Education Resource Center (ERC) loading dock area will be temporarily shifted to accommodate the delivery. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Jefferson Park Avenue. Signage will be installed the week of Feb. 17 to indicate which parking spaces near the loading dock area will be temporarily unavailable during the work. Questions? Contact Ryan Dewyea or Mark Humbertson. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events  

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:      
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center. 
  • Make a monetary donation.
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. 
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903). 
• Lunch and Learn Series: Cardiogenic Shock With Rajan Patel, MD | Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Patel will discuss cardiogenic shock. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 955 3495 5103; password: 8r1%yxG&)     
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women.     
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies.     
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes.     
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.”   
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Webinars: Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day 

Feb. 22 is Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day. The Structural Heart and Valve program will be discussing several valve disorders: 

• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Aortic Stenosis: Evaluation and Management With Michael Ragosta, MD | Tuesday, Feb. 18 | 7-8 a.m. | Zoom | Dr. Ragosta will discuss the importance of recognizing and treating aortic stenosis. (Meeting ID: 970 5155 6533; password: zG+iE^R9) 
• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Transcatheter Interventions for Mitral Regurgitation With Jeff Chidester, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Dr. Chidester will discuss the treatment options for mitral regurgitation in the cath lab. (Meeting ID: 993 7035 5229; password: 2TWtP$8Y)   
• Lunch and Learn Series: Tricuspid Valve Disease and Treatment With John Saxon, MD | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Saxon will discuss tricuspid valve disease and treatment. If you plan on attending in person, please email JeanMarie O’Malley. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the presentation will start at noon. Room capacity is 30 people (Meeting ID: 934 2206 1834; password: Rb5rfV7?) 

Medical Center Hour: Diabetes and the Politics of Difference 

Wednesday, Feb. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, Historical Collections Reading Room, Basement Level | Zoom | Professor Richard Mizelle’s talk connects medical science, racial politics, and health activism to make comprehensible the many faces of diabetes. Sponsored by Historical Collections at the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library and the Center for Health Humanities and Ethics at UVA School of Medicine. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.       

• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console      
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)      
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future      
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more. 

• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP  
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend the Feb. 21 information session — registration required. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. For consideration, please contact the EWYL team by March 1. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health. 

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:        

• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Zoom | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. 
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).       
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

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:    

• Friday, Feb. 21 | 9 a.m.-noon   
• Monday, Feb. 24 | 1-4 p.m. 

TDIC 2025: Cultural Humility in Medicine and Medical Education 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:15 a.m. | 3rd Floor Auditorium, Claude Moore Medical Education Building | Free | Registration Required | The seventh annual Trainee Diversity and Inclusion Conference (TDIC) aims to empower attendees to better serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Keynote speaker Jaya Aysola, MD, MPH, Assistant Dean of Inclusion and Diversity and Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Founder and Executive Director, Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, shares insights from working with health systems to operationalize equity for marginalized populations. Further discussion facilitated by UVA Housestaff Council for Diversity and Inclusion and key members of our local community. Faculty, attendings, residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses, UVA Health and UVA staff, and all other interested healthcare providers and educators also are invited to join. Lunch included.    

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

Why Artificial Intelligence Matters in Healthcare 

Tuesday, Feb. 25 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Claude Moore Medical Education Building, Learning Studio, Room 1110 | As the healthcare industry evolves — and artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable of taking on more tasks — its adoption can begin to solve problems across the entire patient care journey. This is a UPG-facilitated education and discussion session with experts from Advisory Board. Pre-meeting reception starts at 5 p.m. Registration and accreditation information. 

Nominate: 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

2025 Joint SAHMS and Agnes Dillon Randolph Nursing History Conference 

March 14-15 | UVA School of Nursing | The 2025 Joint Meeting of Southern Association for the History of Medicine and Science (SAHMS) and the Eleanor Crowder Bjoring Center for Nursing Historical Inquiry Agnes Dillon Randolph International Nursing History Conference is an interdisciplinary event on topics related to the history of medicine, science, nursing, and healthcare. Details. Questions? Contact Dominique Tobbell or Maura Singleton. 

Appreciation 

Ready for Our Close Up: UVA Health University Medical Center Welcomes Magnet Appraisers Feb. 24-27 

Anticipation is mounting at UVA Health University Medical Center, as four appraisers from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)’s Magnet Recognition Program will conduct a site visit from Monday, Feb. 24 through Thursday, Feb. 27 — the final step in the Magnet redesignation process that happens every four years. 

“The Magnet appraisers will spend the majority of their time visiting clinical practice settings and interviewing direct care nurses,” explains Jennifer “JT” Hall, MSN, RN, CNL, Director, Nursing Professional Practice, Magnet Program. “Additionally, they will meet with leaders and interprofessional partners as well as review outcomes and workforce data.” 

Magnet honors healthcare organizations for quality patient care, interdisciplinary collaboration, nursing excellence, and innovations in professional nursing practice. There are only 613 Magnet-designated organizations around the world. Fewer than 10% of hospitals in the United States hold Magnet designation. 

Thank you to all UVA Health team members who helped prepare for this visit. Read more on Connect. 

Friday, Feb. 14

ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | Happy ASPIRE Day! This year’s ASPIRE Day festivities are dedicated to all of you — our team who puts patient at the center of everything we do. Event kit deliveries and rounding are happening at more than 125 locations and UVA Health leaders are hosting tables at the following spots for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways:  

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.  
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  

You can also download a digital Valentine’s card to send to your colleagues. 

Operations 

Construction Impact: Jefferson Park Avenue Lane Shift 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | As part of the Linear Accelerator Replacement Project on the ground floor of the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), equipment will be delivered via crane. A section of sidewalk and one lane of Jefferson Park Avenue near the ECCCC and the Education Resource Center (ERC) loading dock area will be temporarily shifted to accommodate the delivery. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Jefferson Park Avenue. Signage will be installed the week of Feb. 17 to indicate which parking spaces near the loading dock area will be temporarily unavailable during the work. Questions? Contact Ryan Dewyea or Mark Humbertson. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Laura Homewood is featured on PBS Newshour discussing endometriosis. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Daniel Landes participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing children’s ear, nose, and throat conditions. 
• Jason Lineen is spotlighted on Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of chief strategy officers to know. 
• Dr. Nisha Hosadurg and Dr. Kelly Wingerter featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing women’s heart health. 
• Dr. Jeff Vergales co-writes an op-ed for MedPage Today on screen time for kids. 
• Clinical Dietitian Katherine Basbaum is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing how a new food labeling proposal could help Americans. 

Research 

• Dr. Melanie Rutkowski’s research into how to turn a failed ovarian cancer treatment into a lifesaver is featured locally, in Chicago, and on Yahoo. 
• Dr. Jennifer Payne’s research into a potential blood test for postpartum depression is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally. 
• Dr. Lulu Jiang is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing her Alzheimer’s research. 
• Dr. Steven Munger is featured on the VHHA podcast — broadcast on radio stations across Virginia — discussing UVA Health’s Center for Smell and Taste Disorders. 
• Dr. Laurie Archbald-Pannone is featured locally and in Roanoke discussing how to improve vaccination rates for older adults. 

Community 

• The Galax Gazette highlights UVA Cancer Center’s partnership with Tri-Area Community Health to improve access to breast cancer screening and follow-up care. 

Education 

• School of Nursing graduate student Sherrie Page Guyer writes an op-ed for STAT on the importance of school nurses. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:     
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.
  • Make a monetary donation.
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).
• Lunch and Learn Series: Cardiogenic Shock With Rajan Patel, MD | Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Patel will discuss cardiogenic shock. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 955 3495 5103; password: 8r1%yxG&)    
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women.    
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies.    
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes.    
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.”   
• Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies | Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16.   
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

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 first exhibit runs through March 14. The art will hang in the lobby of University Hospital alongside our scheduled rotating fine artists. Stop by and check it out! 

Nominate: John T. Casteen III Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Monday, Feb. 17 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. One donation can save up to three lives. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. Details. 

Webinars: Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day  

Feb. 22 is Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day. The Structural Heart and Valve program will be discussing several valve disorders:  

• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Aortic Stenosis: Evaluation and Management With Michael Ragosta, MD | Tuesday, Feb. 18 | 7-8 a.m. | Zoom | Dr. Ragosta will discuss the importance of recognizing and treating aortic stenosis. (Meeting ID: 970 5155 6533; password: zG+iE^R9) 
• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Transcatheter Interventions for Mitral Regurgitation With Jeff Chidester, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Dr. Chidester will discuss the treatment options for mitral regurgitation in the cath lab. (Meeting ID: 993 7035 5229; password: 2TWtP$8Y)  
• Lunch and Learn Series: Tricuspid Valve Disease and Treatment With John Saxon, MD | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Saxon will discuss tricuspid valve disease and treatment. If you plan on attending in person, please email JeanMarie O’Malley. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the presentation will start at noon. Room capacity is 30 people (Meeting ID: 934 2206 1834; password: Rb5rfV7?) 

Medical Center Hour: Diabetes and the Politics of Difference 

Wednesday, Feb. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, Historical Collections Reading Room, Basement Level | Zoom | Professor Richard Mizelle’s talk connects medical science, racial politics, and health activism to make comprehensible the many faces of diabetes. Sponsored by Historical Collections at the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library and the Center for Health Humanities and Ethics at UVA School of Medicine. 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.      

• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console     
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)     
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future     
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.   

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:       

• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.      
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).      
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library. 

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend the Feb. 21 information session — registration required. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. For consideration, please contact the EWYL team by March 1. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

TDIC 2025: Cultural Humility in Medicine and Medical Education 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:15 a.m. | 3rd Floor Auditorium, Claude Moore Medical Education Building | Free | Registration Required | The seventh annual Trainee Diversity and Inclusion Conference (TDIC) aims to empower attendees to better serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Keynote speaker Jaya Aysola, MD, MPH, Assistant Dean of Inclusion and Diversity and Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Founder and Executive Director, Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, shares insights from working with health systems to operationalize equity for marginalized populations. Further discussion facilitated by UVA Housestaff Council for Diversity and Inclusion and key members of our local community. Faculty, attendings, residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses, UVA Health and UVA staff, and all other interested healthcare providers and educators also are invited to join. Lunch included.   

Appreciation 

‘Absolute Breath of Fresh Air’ | 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. Jordan Hackworth was a fantastic anesthesiologist. He was kind, courteous, patient, and caring. Wonderful bedside manner. He listened to my concerns and answered my questions thoroughly. I was anxious about the procedure before I met him, and he quickly made me feel much better. UVA Health doctors are the best. I was so happy to have an anesthesiologist take care of me. Thank you, Dr. Hackworth!” 
• “I am fully aware of my bad habits that affect my health. I am very open and honest about such things. I'm working on it, in my own way, perhaps unconventional and it is working for me. In the past, I have felt shamed, dismissed, and unfortunately ridiculed for either my methods or my unhealthy behavior. What I got from this UVA Health appointment was caring, trust, and feeling safe. THAT is what helps me want to keep doing better for myself and my health. It was awesome!” 
• “I mean, wow. Lane was an absolute breath of fresh air. I almost said something to the doctor himself about it. I did call back after my appointment to try and reach the front desk to give positive feedback about my visit and I did mention Lane by name. I've been in and out of a lot of doctor's offices in my life, but I have never quite felt as at ease as I did when interacting with Lane. It was glaringly obvious to see what a genuine and friendly person she is. The facility is extremely lucky to have her. Hopefully this feedback makes Lane feel as nice as she made me feel at ease during my appointment. I've been in recovery for so long, over a year, and her positive energy was so appreciated — I don't know if she knows how much that can help someone in my position. Thanks for that!” 

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

Wednesday, Feb. 12

ASPIRE Day 2025!  

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:      

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.  
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Operations 

Winter Storm — Normalizing Operations 

As weather and road conditions have improved, UVA Health will be moving forward with the plan to open the majority of clinics (including those on Grounds) Feb. 12 at noon. For details, please refer to the email from Emergency Management or visit Connect.

Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Construction Impact: Jefferson Park Avenue Lane Shift 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 7 a.m.-5 p.m. | As part of the Linear Accelerator Replacement Project on the ground floor of the Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center (ECCCC), equipment will be delivered via crane. A section of sidewalk and one lane of Jefferson Park Avenue near the ECCCC and the Education Resource Center (ERC) loading dock area will be temporarily shifted to accommodate the delivery. Flaggers will be present to direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic along Jefferson Park Avenue. Signage will be installed the week of Feb. 17 to indicate which parking spaces near the loading dock area will be temporarily unavailable during the work. Questions? Contact Ryan Dewyea or Mark Humbertson. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:    
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.    
  • Make a monetary donation.    
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.  
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).    
• Lunch and Learn Series: Adult Congenital Surgery With Jared Beller, MD | Thursday, Feb. 13 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Beller will discuss Adult Congenital Surgery. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:15 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 930 7713 3712; password: 6e8g+jpD)   
• Lunch and Learn Series: Cardiogenic Shock With Rajan Patel, MD | Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Patel will discuss cardiogenic shock. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 955 3495 5103; password: 8r1%yxG&)   
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women.   
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies.   
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes.   
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.”  
• Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies | Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16.  
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Nominate: John T. Casteen III Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Monday, Feb. 17 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. One donation can save up to three lives. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. Details. 

Webinars: Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day  

Feb. 22 is Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day. The Structural Heart and Valve program will be discussing several valve disorders: 

• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Aortic Stenosis: Evaluation and Management With Michael Ragosta, MD | Tuesday, Feb. 18 | 7-8 a.m. | Zoom | Dr. Ragosta will discuss the importance of recognizing and treating aortic stenosis. (Meeting ID: 970 5155 6533; password: zG+iE^R9) 
• Heart Valve Awareness Education: Transcatheter Interventions for Mitral Regurgitation With Jeff Chidester, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | noon-1 p.m. | Zoom | Dr. Chidester will discuss the treatment options for mitral regurgitation in the cath lab. (Meeting ID: 993 7035 5229; password: 2TWtP$8Y) 
• Lunch and Learn Series: Tricuspid Valve Disease and Treatment With John Saxon, MD | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Saxon will discuss tricuspid valve disease and treatment. If you plan on attending in person, please email JeanMarie O’Malley. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the presentation will start at noon. Room capacity is 30 people (Meeting ID: 934 2206 1834; password: Rb5rfV7?) 

TDIC 2025: Cultural Humility in Medicine and Medical Education 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:15 a.m. | 3rd Floor Auditorium, Claude Moore Medical Education Building | Free | Registration Required | The seventh annual Trainee Diversity and Inclusion Conference (TDIC) aims to empower attendees to better serve an increasingly diverse patient population. Keynote speaker Jaya Aysola, MD, MPH, Assistant Dean of Inclusion and Diversity and Associate Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and Founder and Executive Director, Penn Medicine Center for Health Equity Advancement, shares insights from working with health systems to operationalize equity for marginalized populations. Further discussion facilitated by UVA Housestaff Council for Diversity and Inclusion and key members of our local community. Faculty, attendings, residents, fellows, advanced practice providers, nurses, UVA Health and UVA staff, and all other interested healthcare providers and educators also are invited to join. Lunch included.  

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

Nominate: 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week University Medical Center Junior Volunteer Summer Program in Charlottesville. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please email Maureen Oswald. 

Charlottesville Ten Miler 

Saturday, March 22 | Downtown Charlottesville | Details | This year marks the 50th running of the race, a milestone event that celebrates decades of tradition and community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance race, this event is the perfect way to experience the beauty and spirit of Charlottesville. If you’re a UVA Health team member:  

• Cheer | A cheer zone to support runners during the race will be set up outside the Team Member Gym.  
• Free entry | Twenty-five complimentary race entries are available to team members. These will be distributed through a lottery. Applications for the lottery can be picked up and submitted at the front desk in the Team Member Gym, with the final drawing taking place on Feb. 28.  
• Group run | Every Thursday, Feb. 13-March 20, a short run will be hosted weekly at 5:30 a.m., departing from the Team Member Gym. All paces are welcome. 

Appreciation 

‘Seen, Valued, Respected’ 

The 2025 Garden of Appreciation at UVA Health University Medical Center expressed gratitude to our Environmental Services (EVS), Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), and Rewards and Recognition (R&R) teams! 

Leaders and others served lunch to, and mingled with, more than 150 team members at the second annual event. 

“I’m glad all the involved team members were included in this invitation and recognized equally. It’s important to feel appreciated when you put in the hard work,” says Adriana Rodriguez, who’s been working as an Administrative Assistant for FNS for several months. 

“It’s nice to be appreciated for the hard work that we do for other team members,” says Josh Richard, Sous Chef, FNS. 

Read more reactions and see the photo gallery on Connect. 

Monday, Feb. 10

This Month: Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Leadership 

Be Heard Breakfast 

Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Health System Executive Board Room | There are still spots open for Wendy Horton’s Be Heard Breakfast. Come together and chat with colleagues from across UVA Health University Medical Center. Team members can clock in for their time spent contributing to these valuable conversations. Sign up. 

Human Resources 

New Benefit: Discount on UVA Health LASIK Procedures 

The team at UVA Health LASIK Northridge is pleased to share that all UVA Health and UVA academic team members and all UVA students are eligible for a 10% discount on LASIK procedures. LASIK is not covered by most insurance plans (including the UVA Health Plan). The out-of-pocket cost is $2,500 per eye, so UVA employees and students can save $250 per eye. To receive the discount, simply inform the scheduling team that you are a UVA employee or student when you schedule your initial evaluation with the clinic. To make an appointment, call 434.982.2010. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events  

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:   
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.   
  • Make a monetary donation.   
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. 
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).   
• Lunch and Learn Series: Adult Congenital Surgery With Jared Beller, MD | Thursday, Feb. 13 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Beller will discuss Adult Congenital Surgery. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:15 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 930 7713 3712; password: 6e8g+jpD)  
• Lunch and Learn Series: Cardiogenic Shock With Rajan Patel, MD | Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Patel will discuss cardiogenic shock. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 955 3495 5103; password: 8r1%yxG&)  
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Location: Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women.  
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies.  
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes.  
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.” 
• Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies | Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq)

Elevate Your Nursing With a UVA Graduate Degree 

UVA School of Nursing is Virginia’s top-ranked program and offers a multitude of programs and pathways for nurses interested in advancing their education and professional trajectory. Choose from the newly reformatted hybrid BSN to DNP program, which offers students a choice of one of eight specialty areas, to the school’s five specialty master’s programs and six post-master’s specialty programs. With programs designed for working nurses, many of which require minimal time on Grounds, our graduates earn more, rise faster, and reap the rewards a graduate nursing degree brings. With flexible schedules, affordable programs, and more than $4 million in financial aid distributed every year, there’s never been a better time to consider becoming an advanced practice nurse and supercharging your career. Join to learn more.      

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP   
• Wednesday, March 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | RSVP 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.     

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | NOWS (Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome) Intro, Part 1: Epidemiology and Screening    
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console    
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)    
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future    
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

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, Feb. 13 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.  
• Friday, Feb. 21 | 9 a.m.-noon  
• Monday, Feb. 24 | 1-4 p.m. 

Nominate: John T. Casteen III Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:     

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Blood Drive: Your Donation Is Urgently Needed 

Monday, Feb. 17 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Battle Building, Quayle Center, first floor | We urge all blood donors — particularly O negative blood donors — to give now to keep critical blood products on the shelves for patients in need. One donation can save up to three lives. Contact Sharon Jones at GiveBlood@uvahealth.org to make an appointment. Swag alert: Get a $15 e-gift card when you donate. Details. 

Medical Center Hour: Diabetes and the Politics of Difference 

Wednesday, Feb. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, Historical Collections Reading Room, Basement Level | Zoom | Professor Richard Mizelle’s talk connects medical science, racial politics, and health activism to make comprehensible the many faces of diabetes. Sponsored by Historical Collections at the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library and the Center for Health Humanities and Ethics at UVA School of Medicine. 

Information Sessions: RN to BSN 

Earn a BSN on your terms! UVA’s top-ranked RN to BSN program offers a part-time, hybrid, two-year pathway for RNs interested in the personal, professional, and financial benefits a BSN brings. In-person classes take place once a month across three sites: Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fairfax. Virtual info sessions offer prospective RN to BSN students a chance to chat with friendly students, faculty, and admissions staffers to learn about a degree that opens doors. Join to learn more.         

• Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday Feb. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | RSVP 
• Wednesday, March 12 | 6-7 p.m. | RSVP 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend the Feb. 21 information session — registration required. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. For consideration, please contact the EWYL team by March 1. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.  

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:      

• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.     
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).     
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.    

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

Appreciation

Making History

Margaret (Megan) Tracci, MD, JD, FACS, has been named the new president of the Southern Association for Vascular Surgery (SAVS) — and becomes its first woman president. The UVA Health vascular surgeon and UVA School of Medicine Professor of Surgery assumed the new role at the close of the 2025 SAVS annual meeting.  

In addition to maintaining a busy surgical practice, she is active nationally in health policy and currently serves as the Chair of the Society for Vascular Surgery’s Policy and Advocacy Council and as a member of the American College of Surgeons Health Policy and Advocacy Group. 

Dr. Tracci earned her undergraduate degree at Stanford University and a dual MD/JD degree with a focus on health policy and patient safety from the University of Illinois. She completed her training in general and vascular surgery at UVA School of Medicine, joined the faculty in 2010, and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a distinguished fellow of the Society for Vascular Surgery. 

“The Southern Association for Vascular Surgery embodies the very best in a regional organization,” she says. “The meeting is a forum for excellent science and clinical conversation and the society a collegial home for surgeons from all backgrounds to share ideas, build friendships, and support one another. I could not be more honored by this role and by the privilege of helping the Southern Association for Vascular Surgery celebrate its 50th anniversary and continue to make history over its next 50 years.” 

Friday, Feb. 7

National Wear Red Day — Send Your Photos to Us 

Friday, Feb. 7 | Uniting millions worldwide to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention for all with a focus on women’s health. Chances are, we all know a woman affected by heart disease and stroke because cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all cancers combined. Together, we can change this — because there is nothing women united with purpose cannot achieve.

Email photos of you (and your colleagues) wearing your best red outfits on Feb. 7 and we’ll share them on Connect. (Please include name and department in photo submissions.) 

More American Heart Month Events 

• UVA Health Heart and Vascular Center 2nd Annual Lewis Lipson, MD, Memorial Food Drive | Through Feb. 28 | Most needed items include staples (canned fruits and vegetables-low sugar/sodium), proteins (nut butters, can tuna/chicken, canned or dry beans), grains (cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, mac and cheese), meal makers (soups, stews, chilis, pasta sauce-low sodium), seasonings (cooking oils, dried herbs, spices), and non-food items (toilet paper, toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, baby formula, diapers, baby food). There are four ways to donate:  
  • Drop off any non-perishable donations at any of the food bins located throughout the Heart and Vascular Center.  
  • Make a monetary donation.  
  • Go online to Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.
  • Visit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (1207 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA, 22903).  
• South Tower Lighting | Feb. 7-9 | The South Tower will be lighted red over the weekend in honor of American Heart Month. 
• Lunch and Learn Series: Adult Congenital Surgery With Jared Beller, MD | Thursday, Feb. 13 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Beller will discuss Adult Congenital Surgery. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:15 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 930 7713 3712; password: 6e8g+jpD) 
• Lunch and Learn Series: Cardiogenic Shock With Rajan Patel, MD | Wednesday, Feb. 19 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Patel will discuss cardiogenic shock. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 955 3495 5103; password: 8r1%yxG&) 
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Location: Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women. 
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies. 
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes. 
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.” 
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq) 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement 

Through Sunday, Feb. 9; reopens Monday, Feb. 10 | Facilities Management is replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the third level (B) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the third level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

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:    

• Updates to Management of Broken Surgically Placed Tunneled Central Venous Catheter SOP.  
• Updates to Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation Medical Center Policy.  
• A new Berlin Cannula Dressing Change SOP, and many more.  

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

UVA Health in the News 

Top Story 

• Dr. Cate Varney is featured in more than 300 outlets nationally in an Associated Press story discussing weight loss medications. 

Patient Care 

• Dr. Patricia Rodriguez-Lozano participates in our weekly NBC29 segment, discussing women’s heart health. 
• Dr. Patrick Jackson is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing bird flu.  
• UVA School of Nursing Associate Professor Emma Mitchell and Director of Communications and Marketing Christine Kueter write an op-ed for STAT on at-home HPV tests. 
• Becker’s Hospital Review highlights the proposed reauthorization of the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act and the funding it has provided UVA Health. 
• Dr. Jennifer Payne is featured on a Georgia TV station discussing insomnia therapy for women while they are pregnant. 

Research 

• Dr. David Schiff is featured in Healio discussing a clinical trial he led examining a new potential treatment for grade 2 gliomas. 
• Dr. Anelyssa D’Abreu is featured in Yahoo and several UK news outlets discussing the link between hearing loss and dementia. 
• Dr. Jim Tucker talks with the Toronto Globe and Mail about his research into memories of past lives. 
• Dr. Kara Anderson is featured in Medical News Today discussing research into the health benefits of moderate-intensity exercise. 
• Albemarle High School student Vidya Ambati, who has worked with UVA Health researchers on a potential way to treat rheumatoid arthritis, is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally for reaching the finals of a national science competition. 

Community 

• Dr. Chris Holstege is featured locally, across Virginia, and on TV stations nationally discussing opioids and THC edibles. 

Education 

• Associate Professor of Nursing and Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Melissa Gomes, along with nursing students Jack Dennis and Ariel Till, are featured in an Education Week story on how education schools can borrow ideas from nursing schools to recruit more men. 

Happenings 

Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky | The Art of Aleona Isakova 

Through Wednesday, March 12 | University Hospital Lobby | UVA Health Arts Program is pleased to present “Fashion Illustration: Reflections of Earth and Sky.” Pictured: Inspired by African Ankara fabric Giclee with gold, hand-painted. Stop by and check it out! 

New Earn While You Learn Advanced Program Opportunity: Cardiac and Vascular Sonography 

Earn While You Learn (EWYL) has announced new programs for Adult Cardiac (Echo) Sonography and Adult Vascular Sonography starting August 2025. A limited number of positions are available to University Medical Center employees for this year-long training program. Please refer to the EWYL website for program requirements and plan to attend the Feb. 21 information session — registration required. Participant selection will occur in April for the program starting in August. For consideration, please contact the EWYL team by March 1. Questions? Email earnwhileyoulearn@uvahealth.org. 

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. 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health. 

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events: 

• Black Excellence Expo | Saturday, Feb. 8 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Suite 100. Manassas Park, VA, 20111 | Join the UVA Community Health Community Engagement team and medical professionals — as well as authors, entertainers, artists, musicians, and community leaders — to celebrate Black History Month. Attendees can look forward to engaging conversations, creative showcases, and food trucks at this family-friendly event. 
• UVA Health Storytellers | CANCELED
• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.    
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).    
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

Valentine’s Day Rose Bouquet 

Pre-order by Sunday, Feb. 9 | Want to send roses to a special someone on Valentine’s Day? Stop by the gift shop in the University Hospital lobby to pre-order a dozen roses for $39.99 (includes vase). 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.    

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | NOWS (Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome) Intro, Part 1: Epidemiology and Screening   
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console   
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)   
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future   
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:    

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.    
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.    
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.    
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.    
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.     

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Nominate: John T. Casteen III Diversity-Equity-Inclusion Leadership Award 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 14 | This award honors University community members who best demonstrate exemplary leadership in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at UVA or in the local community. This award honors one student, one staff, and one faculty member from UVA, UVA Health, and UVA Wise. Learn more and nominate. 

Medical Center Hour: Diabetes and the Politics of Difference 

Wednesday, Feb. 19 | noon-1 p.m. | Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, Historical Collections Reading Room, Basement Level | Zoom | Professor Richard Mizelle’s talk connects medical science, racial politics, and health activism to make comprehensible the many faces of diabetes. Sponsored by Historical Collections at the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library and the Center for Health Humanities and Ethics at UVA School of Medicine. 

Charlottesville Ten Miler 

Saturday, March 22 | Downtown Charlottesville | Details | This year marks the 50th running of the race, a milestone event that celebrates decades of tradition and community. Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance race, this event is the perfect way to experience the beauty and spirit of Charlottesville. If you’re a UVA Health team member: 

• Cheer | A cheer zone to support runners during the race will be set up outside the Team Member Gym. 
• Free entry | Twenty-five complimentary race entries are available to team members. These will be distributed through a lottery. Applications for the lottery can be picked up and submitted at the front desk in the Team Member Gym, with the final drawing taking place on Feb. 28. 
• Group run | Every Thursday, Feb. 13-March 20, a short run will be hosted weekly at 5:30 a.m., departing from the Team Member Gym. All paces are welcome. 

Appreciation 

‘They Are Rock Stars’ | 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. Barrick is a wonderful dentist who has impeccable standards. I recommend him to everyone I talk to. He has done a ton of dental work for me. I don't think it's fair to others, though, that I am his favorite patient.”  
• “Anayara Graziani, RN, was exceptional. She assisted with my needs; explained everything in detail — constantly checking to see if I was in pain or needed anything. She made sure that my support person was fully aware of everything that was going on. She is a credit to nursing and to UVA Health.” 
• “Katie George is an exceptional healthcare provider. She has completely transformed my life through her care. She is compassionate, understanding, and truly listens to her patients. Her role in understanding obesity is changing the landscape of healthcare and it is so needed. There is a reason why she and her team are getting booked out months and months. Please, do all you can to keep her here. Between her and Colin Leibold (a fellow) in primary medicine in Crozet — they are rock stars and if this is what the future of healthcare/medicine looks like, we will be just fine! Please do all you can to hire more like them and keep them here. This is how we can change healthcare in the U.S. (and the world).” 

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

Wednesday, Feb. 5

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.    

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:   

• Black History Month Opening Celebration: African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health | Friday, Feb. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 2ABC | Registration Required | Lunch will be served. Keynote speaker Rudolph Beverly, Manager, UVA Health Transportation and Distribution, will share insights and reflections on the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. Engage in meaningful discussions and connect with others who are passionate about diversity and inclusion. 
• Black Excellence Expo | Saturday, Feb. 8 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Suite 100. Manassas Park, VA, 20111 | Join the UVA Community Health Community Engagement team and medical professionals — as well as authors, entertainers, artists, musicians, and community leaders — to celebrate Black History Month. Attendees can look forward to engaging conversations, creative showcases, and food trucks at this family-friendly event. 
• UVA Health Storytellers | CANCELED
• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).   
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  

Read a message from leadership and learn more on Connect. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement  

Through Sunday, Feb. 9; reopens Monday, Feb. 10 | Facilities Management is replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the third level (B) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the third level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

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:   

• Updates to Management of Broken Surgically Placed Tunneled Central Venous Catheter SOP. 
• Updates to Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation Medical Center Policy. 
• A new Berlin Cannula Dressing Change SOP, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Transitioning From WebEx to Microsoft Teams and Zoom 

Beginning Feb. 20, UVA Health will no longer support WebEx as an option for hosting meetings within the organization. In its place, we will formally transition to both Microsoft Teams and Zoom as our primary meeting platforms. This decision comes after much deliberation in determining how best we can streamline collaboration, as well as enhance functionality, security, and ease of use. To make this transition as simple as possible, we are informing all team members now so you can begin to adopt Teams or Zoom for future meetings. To learn more, visit Connect. 

Human Resources 

Hoos Well Portal Is Open

Start earning rewards for healthy activities in the refreshed 2025 Hoos Well portal. Employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan can earn up to $500 each. Log in or create a new account. 

Happenings 

American Heart Month Events 

• National Wear Red Day — Send Your Photos to Us | Friday, Feb. 7 | Uniting millions worldwide to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention for all with a focus on women’s health. Chances are, we all know a woman affected by heart disease and stroke because cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all cancers combined. Together, we can change this — because there is nothing women united with purpose cannot achieve. Email photos of you (and your colleagues) wearing your best red outfits on Feb. 7 and we’ll share them on Connect. (Please include name and department in photo submissions.) 
• South Tower Lighting | Feb. 7-9 | The South Tower will be lighted red over the weekend in honor of American Heart Month. 
• Lunch and Learn Series: Adult Congenital Surgery With Jared Beller, MD | Thursday, Feb. 13 | 11:30 am-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Dr. Beller will discuss Adult Congenital Surgery. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11:15 a.m. and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 930 7713 3712; password: 6e8g+jpD) 
• Roundtable Discussion With Women's Heart Health and Primary Care Teams: 'Collaborative Approaches to Women's Cardiovascular Health in Primary and Specialized Care' | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 2-3 p.m. | Location: Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Objectives of the roundtable include identifying and addressing barriers such as fragmented care, lack of standardized protocols, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Plus, building a collaborative platform to improve cardiovascular outcomes in women. 
• Empowering Women in Medicine: Strategies for Leadership and Professional Growth With Gina Lundberg, MD | Thursday, Feb. 20 | 4-4:45 p.m. | Pinn Hall, G1 and 2 | Casual coffee chat for Internal Medicine residents, fellows, and medical students to inspire leadership ambitions and foster mentorship among trainees and share strategies. 
• Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Cardiovascular Care: Leadership and Patient-Centered Strategies in Cardiology | Friday, Feb. 21 | 8-9 a.m. | Pinn Hall G1 and 2 | Cardiovascular disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbated by limited diversity in care leadership and a lack of patient-centered models. This session will explore solutions to improve access, equity, and outcomes. 
• Department of Medicine: Grand Rounds | Friday, Feb. 21 | noon-1:15 pm | Education Resource Center, Conference Room A | Topic: “Gender Disparities in Cardiovascular Care: More than 20 years of Go Red for Women.” 
• Lunch and Learn Series: ECMO With Mike Gelvin, CCP | Thursday, Feb. 27 | 11:30 am-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Blue Ridge Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | Mike Gelvin, CCP, will discuss Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. For those attending in person, lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m., and the presentation will start at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 983 9936 6615; password: 5p#jD$rq)

Valentine’s Day Rose Bouquet 

Pre-order by Sunday, Feb. 9 | Want to send roses to a special someone on Valentine’s Day? Stop by the gift shop in the University Hospital lobby to pre-order a dozen roses for $39.99 (includes vase). 

ECHO: Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome UVA 2025 

This ECHO (Extension for Community Health Outcomes) is designed for providers and community members who care or support care for pregnant and parenting patients and newborns with or at risk for opioid use disorder. All sessions below are from 4 to 5 p.m. Register.   

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | NOWS (Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome) Intro, Part 1: Epidemiology and Screening  
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 | NOWS Intro, Part 2: Eat, Sleep, Console  
• Wednesday, Feb. 26 | Breastfeeding: NOWS and SUD (substance use disorder)  
• Wednesday, March 5 | NOWS Research, Predictive Analytics, Scoring, and the Future  
• Wednesday, March 12 | Postpartum Depression: NOWS and SUD 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:   

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.   
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.   
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.    

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Nominate: 2025 Sustainability Leadership Award 

Deadline: Monday, Feb. 24 | 5 p.m. | An initiative of UVA Sustainability, the award honors those who exhibit an abiding commitment to advancing sustainability practices and solutions in our community. Nominations are accepted in four categories: UVA student/group; UVA staff/department; UVA faculty/department; and local (Charlottesville, Albemarle, and surrounding counties) community member or group. You may nominate yourself or your group, department or organization, or you may nominate others. Nominate. 

2025 Nursing Excellence Awards Nominations Are Open 

Deadline: Thursday, Feb. 27 | Recognize the wonderful accomplishments from the past year of your UVA Health University Medical Center nursing and other colleagues! Review eligibility and submit nominations. Download and print a flyer to spread the word. 

Summer: Teen Volunteer Opportunity 

Deadline: Friday, Feb. 28 | Do you know a teen, ages 14-18, who wants to volunteer this summer? Learn details and fill out an interest form for the eight-week Charlottesville Medical Center Summer High School Junior Volunteer Program. Visit Volunteer Services for more information. If you work in a University Medical Center department/area and are interested in having Junior Volunteers assist with tasks in your area, please email Maureen Oswald. 

Appreciation 

Video Series | Research in Motion

Have you been keeping up with the weekly video series Research in Motion? In it, researchers are asked three questions: What do you do? What do you love about your research? How will it impact human health? View the latest:   

• Xuemei Huang, MD (pictured) | "My own research is to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, as well as to understand the causes of these disorders." 
• Jeffrey Gander, MD | "I look at two of the most important issues affecting children today: reducing opiate use and increasing access to healthy food." 
• Shayan Moosa, MD | "My research deals with focused ultrasound, where we are developing cutting-edge and non-invasive therapies for treating the brain." 
• Laura Newman, PhD | "My research concerns how inflammation is initiated on a cellular level. Primarily what we’re interested in is how a little piece of the cell, called mitochondria, controls the initiation of inflammation." 

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, Feb. 3

Parking and Transportation Update 

Thank you to everyone who has partnered with us to help alleviate some of our parking challenges. Your support has made a meaningful difference in ensuring that our patients can find parking and arrive at their appointments on time. 

Some team members have raised concerns about the capacity of the Emmet and Ivy Garage (EIG) and shuttle wait times. Please see this Connect article for important updates and resources that help address these concerns. For parking-related questions, please email parking@virginia.edu. 

Operations 

Construction Alert: Lee Street Parking Garage Door Replacement  

Through Sunday, Feb. 9; reopens Monday, Feb. 10 | Facilities Management is replacing double doors connecting the Lee Street Garage to the Connecting Tower. This will occur on the third level (B) and will not allow access from the garage parking directly into the Connecting Tower on the third level. During this time, handicap spaces will be blocked off and rerouted to other floors. Please anticipate some delays in parking and patients getting to appointments. Questions? Contact Justin Marshall. 

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:   

• Updates to Management of Broken Surgically Placed Tunneled Central Venous Catheter SOP. 
• Updates to Organ, Tissue, and Eye Donation Medical Center Policy. 
• A new Berlin Cannula Dressing Change SOP, and many more. 

Questions? Email PolicyTechAdmin@uvahealth.org. 

Central Clinical Orientation 

Tuesday, Feb. 4 | 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | Virtual | Central Clinical Orientation Grid | The newest version of Central Clinical Orientation begins with the Feb. 3 orientation cycle. Team members will have Human Resources orientation Feb. 3 and specialize into the clinical content Feb. 4. Please visit the new Nursing Center for Excellence orientation tab for the most up-to-date orientation information, including a side-by-side comparison of the orientation changes. Questions? Email Deanna Pototschnik, Nursing Professional Development Specialist.

Human Resources 

Hoos Well Portal Opens 

Start earning rewards for healthy activities in the refreshed 2025 Hoos Well portal. Employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan can earn up to $500 each. Log in or create a new account. 

Benefits Wednesday: Meet a Counselor 

Tuesday, Feb. 4 | 7 a.m.-3 p.m. | University Medical Center Dining Conference Room 3 | Ask questions and discuss your benefits with a Human Resources counselor. Walk-ins welcome. Note: Because of scheduling conflicts with the room, the February date is not on a Wednesday. See monthly dates. 

Happenings 

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, Feb. 5 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Thursday, Feb. 13 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 
• Friday, Feb. 21 | 9 a.m.-noon 
• Monday, Feb. 24 | 1-4 p.m. 

Intro to Mindfulness for Healthcare Employees 

Wednesdays, Feb. 5-March 12 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Zoom | Register | Ideal for those who want to learn about mindfulness and how to apply it to reduce stress both at work and at home with a shorter initial time commitment. It can be taken alone, as an introductory offering before taking the full 20-hour course, or as a follow-up to the longer course for those who want a refresher. 

Heart Month Lunch and Learn Series: Mission Work in Nigeria With Adanna Akujuo, MD 

Wednesday, Feb. 5 | 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Thoracic Cardiovascular and Vascular Offices, Albemarle/Shenandoah Conference Rooms 4050 or Zoom | The first Heart Month Lunch and Learn event will feature Dr. Akujuo who will discuss her mission work in Nigeria. If you plan on attending in person, please email Marian Lawson. Lunch will be available starting at 11 a.m.; presentation starts at 11:30 a.m. Room capacity is 30 people. (Meeting ID: 943 9915 6388; password: P#n3*jFm) 

National Wear Red Day — Send Your Photos to Us 

Friday, Feb. 7 | Uniting millions worldwide to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and stroke prevention for all with a focus on women’s health. Chances are, we all know a woman affected by heart disease and stroke because cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all cancers combined. Together, we can change this — because there is nothing women united with purpose cannot achieve. Email photos of you (and your colleagues) wearing your best red outfits on Feb. 7 and we’ll share them on Connect. (Please include name and department in photo submissions.) 

February Is Black History Month 

UVA Health Office of Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE) has announced our 2025 Black History Month theme as African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health.    

Supporting our UVA Health strategic plan goal of cultivating healthy communities and belonging for all through community engagement and healthy equity initiatives — UVA Health is offering this list below of events:   

• Black History Month Opening Celebration: African Americans and Labor: Acknowledging Our Contributions Across UVA Health | Friday, Feb. 7 | noon-1 p.m. | Pinn Hall 2ABC | Registration Required | Lunch will be served. Keynote speaker Rudolph Beverly, Manager, UVA Health Transportation and Distribution, will share insights and reflections on the history, culture, and contributions of the Black community. Engage in meaningful discussions and connect with others who are passionate about diversity and inclusion. 
• Black Excellence Expo | Saturday, Feb. 8 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Manassas Park City Library, 100 Park Central Plaza, Suite 100. Manassas Park, VA, 20111 | Join the UVA Community Health Community Engagement team and medical professionals — as well as authors, entertainers, artists, musicians, and community leaders — to celebrate Black History Month. Attendees can look forward to engaging conversations, creative showcases, and food trucks at this family-friendly event. 
• UVA Health Storytellers | CANCELED
• University Medical Center West Complex Historical Tour | Friday, Feb. 21 | 11:30 a.m-1 p.m. | Meet at the West Complex Courtyard | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. Tour concludes with lunch in the Old Medical School Auditorium. Read more about the tour initiated by Dan Cavanaugh, Curator of Historical Collections, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.   
• Memorial to Enslaved Laborers Tour | Monday, Feb. 24 | noon-1 p.m. | Meet at the memorial | Registration Required | Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE, leads this tour of the permanent tribute to enslaved individuals and families who built and maintained the University of Virginia, and discusses the history of race and how it has shaped our institution. (Recorded virtual tour available now).   
• Book of the Month Discussion: “Trauma and Race: A Path to Well-Being” | Thursday, Feb. 27 | noon-1 p.m. | Registration Required | Guest Speaker Rev. Dr. Micah McCreary, President, New Brunswick Theological Seminary, New Jersey. Co-facilitated by UVA Health's Kimberley Barker, MLS, Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, and Melody M. Pannell, DMin., MSW, M.Div., MACE, GC, Director, ODCE. While supplies last, pick up a copy of the book at UVA School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Claude Moore Health Sciences Library.  

Learn more on Connect. 

Valentine’s Day Rose Bouquet 

Pre-order by Sunday, Feb. 9 | Want to send roses to a special someone on Valentine’s Day? Stop by the gift shop in the University Hospital lobby to pre-order a dozen roses for $39.99 (includes vase). 

Elevate Your Nursing With a UVA Graduate Degree 

UVA School of Nursing is Virginia’s top-ranked program and offers a multitude of programs and pathways for nurses interested in advancing their education and professional trajectory. Choose from the newly reformatted hybrid BSN to DNP program, which offers students a choice of one of eight specialty areas, to the school’s five specialty master’s programs and six post-master’s specialty programs. With programs designed for working nurses, many of which require minimal time on Grounds, our graduates earn more, rise faster, and reap the rewards a graduate nursing degree brings. With flexible schedules, affordable programs, and more than $4 million in financial aid distributed every year, there’s never been a better time to consider becoming an advanced practice nurse and supercharging your career. Join to learn more.     

• Wednesday, Feb. 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP     
• Wednesday, March 12 | 7:30-8:30 a.m. | RSVP     
• Wednesday, April 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | RSVP 

Save the Date: ASPIRE Day 2025! 

Friday, Feb. 14 | UVA Health is hosting a systemwide event for all team members to come together to show our ASPIRE values some love! UVA Health leaders will host tables across the health system for conversation, Valentine’s, and candy giveaways. Discuss your ideas about how we can use our ASPIRE values to continue to make UVA Health one of the best places to work. Table locations:   

• University Medical Center | Main cafeteria breezeway | 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.   
• University Medical Center | West Complex lobby | 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.   
• Prince William Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Haymarket Medical Center | Hallway to Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.   
• Culpeper Medical Center | Cafe | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.    

Event kit deliveries and rounding are planned at more than 125 locations. Digital Valentine’s cards also will be available. 

Heart Failure Symposium: Trends, Issues, and Emerging Therapies 

Saturday, Feb. 22 | 8:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m. | Newcomb Hall and Zoom | Register | This symposium will enhance learners' competencies by addressing current trends, issues, and emerging therapies in heart failure care. Healthcare professionals will broaden their knowledge, aiming to improve care delivery and outcomes across specialized and continuum care settings. Presented by UVA School of Nursing Continuing Education. Registration deadline is Feb. 16. 

Appreciation 

‘Remarkable Contributions’: 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. UVA Health System Awards 

The 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. University of Virginia Health System Awards on Jan. 23 celebrated extraordinary individuals and a community organization making remarkable contributions to health equity, inclusion, and cultural humility.  

Congratulations to awardees Brianna Baldwin; Cleresa Roberts, MD, MBA; Leigh Sato, PT, DPT; Marquita Taylor, PhD, MPA, MBA; Debbie Vermillion; and the Behavioral Health Team at University Medical Associates Clinic. Greg Townsend, MD, and Judy Jones Pointer, MEd, BA, also were given special recognition for their contributions. 

UVA Health Office for Diversity and Community Engagement (ODCE), UVA School of Medicine, and UVA School of Nursing sponsored the event at the historic UVA Rotunda. Read more and see photos on Connect. 

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