News briefs
Lewis awarded for work on Lowe syndrome
Walker to lead national association
Lewis awarded for work on Lowe syndrome
Richard Lewis, M.D., professor of ophthalmology, was the co-recipient of the Lowe Syndrome Association inaugural Legacy Award. Joining Dr. Lewis in receiving this award was Dr. Robert Nussbaum, chief of medical genetics at University of California - San Francisco.
The Lowe Syndrome Association was founded in 1983 by parents of children affected with Lowe Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes physical and mental handicaps and medical problems in boys. Dr. Lewis and Dr. Nussbaum were selected based on their collaboration in the 1980s to identify the Lowe Syndrome gene. They pinpointed the location of the gene in 1992, and, a few years later, the specific enzyme which the gene controls was identified. These discoveries led to the development of a biochemical diagnostic test for Lowe Syndrome, a prenatal diagnostic test, and testing by genetic analysis.
Teaching award goes to Elliot
Tricia C. Elliott, M.D., clinical assistant professor of family medicine at Baylor College of Medicine and director of the BCM residency training program at Kelsey Seybold, was awarded the Exemplary Teaching Award from the Texas Academy of Family Physicians during its Session and Scientific Assembly this month.
This award honors individuals with outstanding teaching skills and those who have developed and implemented innovative teaching models. Elliott was selected as a result of her efforts to improve and shape the community medical experience. In addition to directing this program, she also coordinates and advises international medical missions, which take residents to Matamoros, Mexico, where they care for the underserved.
Walker to lead national association
James Walker, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) at Baylor College of Medicine, has been elected 2008-09 president-elect of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. He will serve a one-year term as president-elect, followed by a one-year term as president.
Walker is the director of the BCM graduate program in nurse anesthesia and associate professor of anesthesiology and allied health sciences. Founded in 1931, the AANA is the professional organization for more than 36,000 CRNAs. As advanced practice nurses, CRNAs are the hands-on providers of 30 million anesthetics delivered in the United States each year. CRNAs practice in every setting where anesthesia is available and are the sole anesthesia providers in more than two-thirds of all rural hospitals.
