The Department of Medicine welcomes André L. Churchwell, MD, Grady Hospital’s inaugural Black chief medical resident

On January 16, 2024, the Department of Medicine welcomed André L. Churchwell, MD, back to Emory as a visiting professor and Medicine Grand Rounds guest speaker. Dr. Churchwell currently serves as senior advisor to the Chancellor on Inclusion and Community Outreach at Vanderbilt University and is the Levi Watkins, Jr. MD Chair and professor of Medicine, Radiology, and Radiological Sciences. He also has the special distinction of being a former chief medical resident (CMR) — specifically the first Black chief medical resident at Grady Hospital. He would then go on to train in Cardiology at Emory where he was an integral part of the inaugural DEI efforts in the School of Medicine.

Though wintry weather advisories were abounded, that didn’t stop residents, medical students, and faculty from filling the room and virtual space for his Grand Rounds presentation which centered on Hearing the Voices of Our Mentors.

(L: Darlington Pobee, M: André Churchwell, R: Martin Campbell)

In a special moment, PGY2 resident and Churchwell Diversity and Inclusion Collective (CDIC) president, Darlington Pobee brought the occasion and introduced Martin L. Campbell, our current chief resident at Emory University Hospital (EUH). Dr. Campbell shares two unique distinctions with Dr. Churchwell — he is our historic first Black CMR at EUH and he will join us for his cardiology fellowship next year. The significance of this was not lost on any in attendance.

The day was filled with teaching, meetings with trainees and faculty, seeing old friends, and reminiscing during a tour of Grady Hospital. Joined by his wife, Mrs. Doreatha Henderson Churchwell (a former Grady ER nurse!) we were treated to her insights and reflections as well. This special homecoming culminated with a dinner that included a roundtable with current CDIC residents, cardiology fellows, and our RYSE DEI leadership. This visit was aptly scheduled on the day after MLK Day and was truly a highlight of the year.

For those who missed his extraordinary presentation and walk through Emory’s DOM history, visit the DOM YouTube Channel here.