Chair's Corner

Dear Colleagues, 

This past month was busy with celebrations and filled with great hope for the future of our graduating trainees. I have been honored to watch them begin to develop into fine physicians, physician-scientists, physician-educators, and physician leaders of tomorrow over the last few years, and I would like to extend my best wishes to them as they embark on their future journeys. I would also like to express my gratitude to our dedicated faculty who teach in the clinic, the classroom, and the lab. One of our residents recently shared the following sentiment, emphasizing the impact of our educators saying, in part, “I am grateful for the mentors who take a genuine interest in both our personal and professional development. Their guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of residency and charting a course toward achieving my career goals.” I can’t think of a higher compliment.  

As one chapter closes for many, a new one begins for the enthusiastic group of interns who joined our residency at the end of June. Please say hello and welcome them if you see them around campus.  

Please be sure to check out this month’s Chair’s Spotlight, where we will have an in-depth feature on the work of Dr. Sarah Hyder, our director of endoscopy. When Dr. Hyder joined us in the spring of 2023, she faced an immediate critical challenge—a significant backlog of patients waiting for endoscopy procedures. We recently spoke with Dr. Hyder to learn about her work and how she is leading new initiatives to address the backlog of patients. 

Later this month, we will feature Dr. Alok Kapoor as our Researcher Spotlight. Dr. Kapoor is a faculty member in the Divisions of Hospital Medicine and Health Systems Science whose research focuses on anticoagulation use and underuse—specifically in underserved populations, transitions of care, and clinical decision support tools to improve care for patients with cardiovascular disease. This month’s feature highlights his work to investigate disparities in clinical care.  

Finally, in June, we celebrated Juneteenth and Pride Month. These events highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion in our workplace, society, and culture. I hope you took the opportunity to celebrate them by participating in the activities and programs offered by UMass Chan, UMass Memorial, and throughout our local communities. 

I wish you all a happy Independence Day, and, as you’re able, please take some time to rest and rejuvenate this summer! 

Sincerely,
Dave 
 

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