Awards and Honors

Cara Larson Biddle, MD, MPH

Cara Larson Biddle, MD, MPH, named as the Diane and Norman Bernstein Professor of Community Pediatrics

Cara Larson Biddle, MD, MPH

“I’m very honored to be the new Diane and Norman Bernstein Professor of Community Pediatrics,” Dr. Biddle says. “My goal is to safeguard and sustain key community programs that are so vital to our children and families. This is such wonderful support.”

Children’s National Hospital named Cara Larson Biddle, MD, MPH, as the Diane and Norman Bernstein Professor of Community Pediatrics.

Dr. Biddle serves as interim senior vice president for Community Health and is the division chief of General Pediatrics and Community Health at Children’s National. She trains medical students and residents, with an emphasis on general pediatrics and delivering community-focused, comprehensive healthcare services in the medical home setting.

The big picture

Dr. Biddle joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. We are grateful to generous donors who have altogether funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families. They foster new discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

A native Washingtonian, Dr. Biddle has a deep-rooted commitment to children and families in the community, especially those living in under-resourced areas. Dr. Biddle also has expertise in the care of children and adolescents with complex and chronic healthcare conditions. She has served Children’s National for 20 years.

Dr. Biddle played a lead role in integrating complex care and mental and behavioral health into the Goldberg Center for Community Pediatric Health, enabling patients to receive continuous, coordinated treatment at their local primary care locations.

“I’m very honored to be the new Diane and Norman Bernstein Professor of Community Pediatrics,” Dr. Biddle says. “My goal is to safeguard and sustain key community programs that are so vital to our children and families. This is such wonderful support.”

Moving the field forward

The Diane and Norman Bernstein Foundation, through its vision and generosity, is ensuring that Dr. Biddle and future holders of this professorship will launch bold, new initiatives to advance the field of community pediatric health, elevate our leadership and improve the lives of all children in the Washington, D.C., area.

Diane and Norman Bernstein had a decades-long relationship with Children’s National. Diane was a volunteer and an employee at Children’s National during the 1970s and 1980s. The couple created this endowment to support initiatives and partnerships that improve healthcare delivery and outcomes for children and their families in the community. The Bernsteins passed away in 2021, but their legacy of giving continues throughout the capital area.

“We are delighted to know Diane & Norman’s endowment to Children’s National Hospital enables Dr. Biddle to expand the hospital’s reach in pediatric community health,” says Kelly Lynch, executive director, Diane & Norman Bernstein Foundation. “Diane was a lifelong activist on children’s issues. She believed deeply that for kids to thrive, they must have access to excellent healthcare. Dr. Biddle’s work will continue her spirited legacy.”

Leandra Godoy, PhD

Honor bestowed on Leandra Godoy, PhD

Leandra Godoy, PhDChildren’s National Hospital named Leandra Godoy, PhD, as the A. James & Alice B. Clark Distinguished Professor of Early Childhood Intervention and Advocacy.

Dr. Godoy is a clinical psychologist and the co-director of the Early Childhood Behavioral Health Program and the Community Mental Health Collaboration, Outreach, Research and Equity (CORE) team.

 The big picture

Dr. Godoy joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have altogether funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families. They foster discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Godoy leads teams that care for young children from birth to age six. Innovation plays a key role in advancing care. Her research aims to improve access to optimal mental healthcare for children and families.

“Funding from this professorship will give my team the flexibility to respond to specific behavioral health needs,” Dr. Godoy says. “These resources will fuel strategic investments so we can help kids get the best start in life.”

Moving the field forward

The A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation established this professorship as part of its historic investments in the Clark Parent & Child Network. Founded in 2020, the network aims to create the best possible health outcomes for parents, infants and young children.

“The Clark Foundation’s enduring vision and generosity will enable Dr. Godoy and future holders of this professorship to launch bold new initiatives that meet the health needs of young children in the Washington, D.C., region,” says Elizabeth Wells, MD, MHS, executive vice president, chief clinical officer and physician-in-chief.

Dr. Godoy’s work has fueled improvements in care, including reducing wait times for autism evaluations in primary care clinics. She also fosters online support groups for parents of children with behavioral health challenges and leads several citywide initiatives, such as the DC Autism Collaborative.

Patrick Cimino

Patrick Cimino, MD, PhD, joins Children’s National as inaugural Professor of Molecular Neuropathology

Patrick Cimino

“It’s an honor to join Children’s National and become the first Professor of Molecular Neuropathology,” Dr. Cimino says.

Children’s National Hospital named Patrick “P.J.” Cimino, MD, PhD, as the inaugural Professor of Molecular Neuropathology.

Dr. Cimino began his role as a principal investigator in the Children’s National Research Institute in October 2025. He will lead new research and bring experts together across the Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, the Brain Tumor Institute and the Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.

The big picture

Dr. Cimino joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have altogether funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families. They foster new discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflects both the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Cimino is a nationally recognized physician-scientist and board-certified neuropathologist. He specializes in the molecular genetics of gliomas. His work looks at brain and central nervous system tumors at the molecular level to understand how and why they develop, and guide more accurate diagnosis and treatment. At Children’s National, he will provide clinical pathology and neuropathology services and lead research that contributes to better therapies and patient outcomes.

Previously, Dr. Cimino served as head of the Neuropathology Unit in the Surgical Neurology Branch at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, part of the National Institutes of Health.

“It’s an honor to join Children’s National and become the first Professor of Molecular Neuropathology,” Dr. Cimino says. “I’m grateful to the generous donor who made this possible, and to the hospital for their trust and vision. Our shared commitment and collaboration to uncover what drives hard-to-treat tumors will lead to real breakthroughs for kids and families.”

Moving the field forward

This appointment was made possible by a $96 million strategic investment from an anonymous family in 2023 to advance pediatric brain tumor research and care. It is one of the largest donations in the hospital’s history, and is transforming the ability to give patients a better chance at healthy lifetimes. The Professorship in Molecular Neuropathology is the third created through this investment, which previously endowed the McCullough Distinguished Professorship in Neurosurgery and the Kurt D. Newman, MD, Professorship in Neuro-Oncology. The investment also elevated the Dr. Robert J. and Florence T. Bosworth Distinguished Professorship in Cancer and Transplantation Biology Research and fully funded the William Seamus Hughes Professorship in Neuro-Oncology and Immunology.

Through this incredible investment, Children’s National continues to partner with global experts to lead a powerful, collaborative effort to change what’s possible for children with brain tumors. It unites researchers and clinicians across disciplines to advance the science — developing new, often first-in-child therapies — while improving every aspect of care, from medical treatment to the psychosocial well-being of patients and their families.

“The vision of the anonymous family continues to create lasting impact,” says Roger J. Packer, MD, director of the Brain Tumor Institute and The Gilbert Distinguished Professor of Neurofibromatosis. “Dr. Cimino is an exceptional leader and scientist. We are thrilled to have him as the inaugural Professor of Molecular Neuropathology. His expertise brings exactly what we needed to move this work forward and deepen our understanding of how tumors grow and change.”

Dr. Sandler gives remarks to graduating surgeon fellows at the RCS England’s Diplomate’s Ceremony.

Anthony Sandler, MD, surgeon-in-chief, named honorary fellow of RCS England

Dr. Sandler gives remarks to graduating surgeon fellows at the RCS England’s Diplomate’s Ceremony.

Dr. Sandler gives remarks to graduating surgeon fellows at the RCS England’s Diplomate’s Ceremony.

Anthony Sandler, MD, senior vice president and surgeon-in-chief of the Joseph E. Robert, Jr. Center for Surgical Care at Children’s National Hospital, was awarded the title of honorary fellow from the Royal College of Surgeons of England. He also delivered an inspirational speech to the RCS England’s Diplomates Ceremony for graduating surgeon fellows. The remarks, focused on lessons he’s learned over the course of career so far, reminded the audience that surgeons have a great responsibility to remain curious about solving problems, but that curiosity and humility must walk hand-in-hand.

“Hold onto uncertainty,” he said. “It reminds you that even as our hands can heal, our hearts must always listen.”

What it means

The RCS England is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious training institutions for aspiring surgeons. The RCS England honorary fellowship is offered by special invitation to people whose extraordinary achievements have made a profound and lasting impact on the fields of surgery or medicine on an international level.

It highlights a surgeon’s exceptional professional service and is one of the highest accolades the college can bestow separate from standard progression through the RCS England itself.

Why it matters

“Every surgeon’s journey is essentially an odyssey, a lifelong pursuit of mastery, compassion and purpose,” Dr. Sandler told the graduating fellows. His own career exemplifies this perception. He is an accomplished thoracic and general pediatric surgeon with an active clinical practice who also leads a clinical center well-known for its ability to train the most successful pediatric general surgery fellows in the U.S. In addition to his surgical leadership, he has avidly pursued research in tumor immunology and tumor vaccine therapy, as well as the design and application of novel devices and technologies for surgical practice.

Dr. Sandler has served and chaired multiple committees for the American Pediatric Surgical Association and served for 10 years on the Board of Examiners for the Pediatric Surgery Qualifying examination. He has authored over 160 peer reviewed publications in clinical and scientific medical journals and is an NIH funded investigator.

He also directs the Sheik Zayed Institute for Surgical Innovation at Children’s National and is the Diane and Norman Bernstein Chair in Pediatric Surgery as well as a professor of surgery and pediatrics at George Washington University.

The Royal College of Surgeons of England

The RCS England is one of the oldest and most prestigious training institutions for aspiring surgeons in the world.

Pascal Amedro, MD, PhD

Pascal Amedro, MD, PhD, named as inaugural Dunn Family Professor of Cardiac Research

Pascal Amedro, MD, PhD

Dr. Amedro joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair.

Children’s National Hospital named Pascal Amedro, MD, PhD, as the inaugural Dunn Family Professor of Cardiac Research.

Dr. Amedro began his role as a senior pediatric cardiologist and researcher in Children’s National Heart and Lung Center and as professor of pediatrics at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in September 2025. He will focus on advancing care and research to improve rehabilitation and lifelong health for children and young adults with congenital heart disease and other chronic conditions.

The big picture

Dr. Amedro joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have altogether funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families. They foster new discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflects both the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Children with congenital heart disease and those with cardiovascular risks linked to chronic conditions are living longer than ever thanks to medical advances, but many still struggle with physical and emotional challenges that follow treatment.

Dr. Amedro is an internationally recognized physician-scientist with a long history of advancing pediatric cardiac care and research. At Children’s National, he plans to introduce QUALIREHAB, a research-based cardiac rehabilitation program he developed and validated in Europe. The 12-week hybrid model combines hospital sessions with guided home exercise, patient education and psychosocial support. Designed to help patients stay active and confident, it has been shown to improve aerobic fitness, patient autonomy, cardiovascular health, mental well-being and overall quality of life.

Previously, Dr. Amedro was a pediatric cardiologist at Bordeaux University Hospital and professor of pediatrics at University of Bordeaux. Currently on academic leave from France, he continues to lead the QUALIREHAB research program in Europe. Earlier in his career, he led the Department of Pediatrics at Montpellier University Hospital, where he founded the pediatric clinical research unit and launched several national and international programs in pediatric cardiology.

As the Dunn Family Professor of Cardiac Research, Dr. Amedro will lead efforts to make prevention a cornerstone of cardiac care — turning research in exercise and rehabilitation into real-world programs that help kids live fuller, healthier lives.

“It’s an honor to join Children’s National and become the first Dunn Family Professor of Cardiac Research,” Dr. Amedro says. “By intervening early and helping families integrate these tools at home, we can give patients a better quality of life and hopefully prevent many of the long-term difficulties they face. I’m deeply grateful to the Dunn family for helping us build a future where children have the chance to live not just longer, but better.”

Moving the field forward

The Dunn family, through their vision and generosity, are ensuring that Dr. Amedro and future holders of this professorship will launch bold initiatives to rapidly advance the field of cardiac research, elevate our leadership and improve the lifetimes of children with heart disease.

Laurie and Colin Dunn’s youngest son, Cannon, was born with congenital heart disease in 2020. He underwent open-heart surgery at four days old. Thanks to expert care at Children’s National, he is now thriving at almost 5 years old. Colin and Laurie — together with Colin’s parents, George and Carroll, and his sister Catie and her husband Jerry — have since given back to advance heart research and support other families. Their most recent $2.5 million gift established the Dunn Family Professorship in Cardiac Research and helped launch a nurse-led research initiative aiming to transform cardiac intensive care unit care to reduce stress for infants and parents and enhance coping.

“We’re forever grateful to the surgeons and care team at Children’s National who saved Cannon’s life,” says George Dunn. “This gift is deeply personal for our family, and we are honored to give back by supporting research that will improve care and outcomes for future generations.”

Marius George Linguraru, DPhil, MA, MS, at the MICCAI conference

Marius George Linguraru honored as MICCAI Fellow and celebrates a landmark year for medical imaging innovation

Marius George Linguraru, DPhil, MA, MS, at the MICCAI conference

Dr. Marius George Linguraru, a global leader in pediatric imaging and AI, has been named a 2025 MICCAI Fellow for advancing quantitative imaging biomarkers and championing equitable AI in children’s health.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming how doctors diagnose, monitor and treat disease. At this year’s conference of the Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention (MICCAI) Society in Daejeon, South Korea, more than 3,300 scientists, engineers and clinicians from around the world gathered to explore that transformation firsthand. Among them was Marius George Linguraru, DPhil, MA, MS, the Connor Family Professor of Research and Innovation at Children’s National Hospital and a global leader in pediatric imaging and AI research, who was officially named a 2025 Fellow of the MICCAI Society.

The fellowship recognizes Dr. Linguraru for his “distinguished contributions to medical image computing, particularly in the development of quantitative imaging biomarkers for pediatric and rare diseases.”

The big picture

The MICCAI Society is the world’s leading organization for medical image computing and computer-assisted intervention. Each year, it recognizes researchers who have shaped the field through scientific excellence, mentorship and community leadership. Dr. Linguraru shares this year’s honor with Carl-Fredrik Westin of Harvard Medical School and Jayashree Kalpathy-Cramer of the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

In addition to receiving the fellowship, Dr. Linguraru currently serves as president of the MICCAI Society, helping to guide its global community through a new era of AI-driven discovery.

“The wellbeing of children is a core value of any society, and I believe AI is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve healthcare for all,” said Dr. Linguraru. “I stand firmly as an advocate for equitable imaging and AI, a mentor and a researcher devoted to children’s health. These values are at the heart of the MICCAI Society, my global family pushing the frontiers of science and healthcare.”

The backdrop

At the 2025 MICCAI conference in Daejeon, more than 3,300 participants came together to celebrate science, collaboration and culture. The meeting showcased the latest breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and machine learning for healthcare, including deep-learning approaches to imaging, robotics and clinical decision support.

Dr. Linguraru highlighted the growing momentum toward translating AI methods into clinical practice, as well as new partnerships with the European Society of Radiology and the European Society of Digital and Integrative Pathology that will strengthen the field’s impact.

The society also introduced new awards and grants focused on innovation, health equity and inclusivity, priorities that align closely with Dr. Linguraru’s own career-long mission to bring AI tools to children with rare diseases and limited access to care.

The bottom line

Dr. Linguraru’s installation as a MICCAI Fellow marks a defining moment for both his career and the society he now leads. It celebrates two decades of pioneering research in pediatric imaging and AI, mentorship across continents and a deep belief that technology should serve every child, everywhere.

As the MICCAI community looks ahead to Abu Dhabi in 2026 and Auckland in 2027, Dr. Linguraru’s leadership will help guide the field toward a future where imaging science, artificial intelligence and compassion work hand in hand to advance global health.

Lowell Frank, MD, with the 2025 Maria Serratto Master Educator Award

Lowell Frank, MD, honored with 2025 Maria Serratto Master Educator Award

Lowell Frank, MD, with the 2025 Maria Serratto Master Educator Award

A leader in pediatric cardiology education for nearly two decades, Dr. Frank has directed the fellowship program since 2015, mentoring nearly 70 fellows.

Lowell Frank, MD, has been awarded the 2025 Maria Serratto Master Educator Award by the American Academy of Pediatrics – Section on Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery. This prestigious honor recognizes exceptional leadership in teaching and mentorship in pediatric cardiology. Dr. Frank joins a distinguished group of Children’s National recipients whose work has helped shape the future of pediatric medical education.

About Lowell Frank, MD

Dr. Frank has been part of Children’s National for nearly 20 years, initially arriving for fellowships in pediatric cardiology and advanced imaging. He joined the fellowship leadership team in 2012 and has directed the program since 2015, mentoring nearly 70 fellows. A recognized educator, Dr. Frank has received multiple teaching honors, including the Jodi Pike Teaching Award and the Elda Arce Teaching Scholar Award.

Nationally, he served on the board of the Society of Pediatric Cardiology Training Program Directors (2015–2023), including as President, and represented pediatric cardiology on the Council of Pediatric Subspecialties. He has contributed extensively to national training standards, co-authoring key educational frameworks for the American Board of Pediatrics and ACGME and leading initiatives such as the EPA Revision and Workforce Modeling Project for pediatric cardiology.

“Dr. Frank’s dedication to cultivating future pediatric specialists has been manifested in his teaching, curriculum development and mentorship. His influence reaches beyond our walls — guiding trainees, enriching educational programs and exemplifying excellence to the pediatric community at large.”  said Wayne Franklin, MD, senior vice president of the Children’s National Heart and Lung Center.

Pediatric Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders seal

Children’s National Hospital designated Pediatric Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders

Pediatric Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders seal

Children’s National Hospital’s Neuroimmunology Program has been named a Pediatric Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders by the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association.

The Neuroimmunology Program at Children’s National Hospital has been recognized by the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association (SRNA) as a Pediatric Center of Excellence in Rare Neuroimmune Disorders (CERND). This designation highlights the program’s expertise in caring for children with complex neuroimmune conditions and its commitment to advancing research and education in the field.

The program is led by Elizabeth Wells, MD, Senior vice president of the Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine Center, Alexandra Kornbluh, MD, director of Neuroimmunology Investigational Therapeutics, and Ilana Kahn, MD, clinical director of Neuroimmunology. Together, they oversee a multidisciplinary team providing state-of-the-art diagnosis, treatment and long-term management for children with antibody-mediated autoimmune encephalitis (AE), acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), febrile infection related epilepsy syndrome (FIRES), multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), opsoclonus myoclonus ataxia syndrome (OMAS), transverse myelitis (TM), optic neuritis (ON), primary CNS vasculitis and other central nervous system demyelinating and inflammatory conditions.

As a designated CERND, Children’s National offers:

  • Expert-led care: Specialists at the forefront of clinical practice and research.
  • Comprehensive services: Coordinated care across neurology, neurosurgery, neuropsychology, psychiatry, psychology, neuroradiology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, critical care, social work, pharmacy and speech therapy.
  • Research opportunities: Access to clinical trials and studies that drive progress in therapies and patient outcomes.

In addition to delivering high-quality clinical care, the program partners with SRNA to expand educational resources for patients, families and clinicians. Its work aligns with SRNA’s broader objectives to strengthen the CERND network, support innovative research and improve both acute therapies and long-term management strategies for rare neuroimmune disorders.

US News badges

Children’s National Hospital once again ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report

US News badgesChildren’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., was ranked as a top hospital in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report 2025-26 Best Children’s Hospitals annual rankings. This marks the ninth straight year Children’s National has made the Honor Roll list. The Honor Roll is a distinction awarded to only 10 children’s hospitals nationwide.

For the fifteenth straight year, Children’s National ranked in 10 specialty services and is the highest U.S. News ranked children’s hospital in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Last year, U.S. News introduced pediatric & adolescent behavioral health as a service line in its rankings. While there are no ordinal rankings for behavioral health, the Children’s National program was named one of the top 50 programs in the country for the second year in a row.

“To be named among the nation’s top children’s hospitals for nine years in a row is a reflection of the extraordinary expertise, innovation and heart that our teams bring to every child and family we serve,” said Michelle Riley-Brown, MHA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Children’s National. “Our leadership in specialties like neurology, cancer, and diabetes and endocrinology underscores the national impact of our work, and we remain focused on setting new standards in pediatric care.”

The annual rankings are the most comprehensive source of quality-related information on U.S. pediatric hospitals and recognizes the nation’s top 50 pediatric hospitals based on a scoring system developed by U.S. News.

“Being a top-ranked pediatric hospital means more than just excelling in a single specialty — it means being a pillar of outstanding care for your entire region,” said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News. “Our rankings acknowledge these hospitals for their comprehensive excellence, helping families find the very best care conveniently located within their state and community.”

The bulk of the score for each specialty service is based on quality and outcomes data. The process includes a survey of relevant specialists across the country, who are asked to list hospitals they believe provide the best care for patients with the most complex conditions.

The Children’s National specialty services that U.S. News ranked in the top 10 nationally are:

The other six specialties ranked among the top 50 are Behavioral Health, Cardiology and Heart Surgery, Gastroenterology and GI Surgery, Neonatology, Pulmonology and Lung Surgery, and Urology.

Wayne J. Franklin

Wayne J. Franklin, MD, MBA, named as inaugural A. James & Alice B. Clark Distinguished Professor of Cardiac Care

Wayne J. Franklin

Dr. Franklin joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair.

Children’s National Hospital named Wayne J. Franklin, MD, MBA, as the inaugural A. James & Alice B. Clark Distinguished Professor of Care.

Dr. Franklin serves as senior vice president of the Children’s National Heart and Lung Center, a role he assumed in 2024. He leads a multidisciplinary team delivering high-quality and innovative pediatric cardiac and pulmonary care. Dr Franklin oversees cardiology, cardiac surgery, cardiac intensive care, cardiovascular anesthesia and pulmonary and sleep medicine, including heart and lung transplant services.

This new endowed professorship was made possible through a generous investment from the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation.

The big picture

Dr. Franklin joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have altogether funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families and foster new discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Franklin is nationally recognized for his research on adult congenital heart disease, specifically single ventricle-Fontan physiology, neurocognitive outcomes, pulmonary hypertension and cardiac disease in pregnancy. He is committed to advancing pediatric cardiac care through technology and innovation to improve the lives of children and families.

“I am deeply honored to become the A. James & Alice B. Clark Distinguished Professor of Cardiac Care,” Dr. Franklin says. “My goal is to ensure that children born with heart conditions can live full, thriving lives into adulthood. I am committed to advancing the care for patients with heart disease in ways that make a lasting difference for generations to come.”

Moving the field forward

The A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation, through their vision and generosity, is ensuring that Dr. Franklin and future holders of this professorship will launch bold, new initiatives to advance the field of cardiovascular research and care, elevate our leadership and improve the lifetimes of children and families with congenital heart disease.

The Clark family and the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation have been steadfast partners of Children’s National for more than 30 years. Their first transformational investment established the A. James Clark Distinguished Professorship in Molecular Genetics, one of the hospital’s earliest endowed chairs. Since then, their thoughtful and strategic philanthropy has advanced programs that give children healthier childhoods and better outcomes. Their most recent $5 million investment created the A. James & Alice B. Clark Distinguished Professorship in Cardiac Care and will help build a flagship Cardiac Exercise and Rehabilitation Program to improve lifelong outcomes for children with heart disease.

“This professorship is both a vital investment in the future and a celebration of our remarkable partnership with Children’s National,” says Courtney Clark Pastrick, board chair of the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation. “With Dr. Franklin as the inaugural chair, I know it will spark discoveries that give children with heart conditions the best possible start in life and the chance to thrive. We are deeply honored to stand behind advancements that truly redefine what’s possible for families.”

Magnet redesignation celebration at Children's National.

Children’s National Hospital receives Magnet redesignation

For the fourth time, Children’s National Hospital has been designated as a Magnet® hospital by the ANCC Magnet Recognition Program®. This designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a subsidiary of the American Nurses Association, is given to hospitals that demonstrate the highest standards of nursing excellence and patient care.

“Our nurses at Children’s National continue to set the highest standards in care and compassion,” said Michelle Riley-Brown, MHA, FACHE, president and CEO of Children’s National. “Magnet recognition is the highest national honor for nursing excellence, and very few hospitals in the country have achieved it four times. I’m proud of the nursing leadership, teamwork and dedication that made this possible.”

Hospitals that achieve Magnet Recognition® have demonstrated lower patient mortality, fewer medical complications, improved patient and employee safety and higher patient and staff satisfaction. Magnet-recognized hospitals have some of the most advanced nursing practices in health care. Less than 10% of hospitals across the country have achieved Magnet status.

“At the core of this achievement are our Children’s National nurses. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion bring our mission, vision and core values to life,” said Linda Talley, MS, RN, NE-BC, FAAN, senior vice president and chief nursing officer at Children’s National. “Our nurses not only excel in caring for patients and families, but also lead in professional practice, drive evidence-based change, and contribute to the creation and advancement of new knowledge that strengthens the nursing profession and transforms care.”

Nurses at Children’s National actively work with patient families to help them make informed decisions about their health care options. Through various leadership councils, Children’s National nurses create solutions from shared decision-making, and integrate them into the individualized care delivered each day in units and across the continuum of care.

The ANCC Magnet Recognition Program® seeks to advance quality in an environment that 1) supports professional nursing practices, 2) disseminates nursing best practices and 3) promotes positive patient outcomes. Children’s National previously received Magnet® designation from the ANCC in 2010, 2015 and 2020.

Kavita Parikh

Honor bestowed on Kavita Parikh, MD, MSHS

Kavita Parikh

“I am honored to step into this role, driven by a vision that every child can thrive when hospitals and communities work hand-in-hand,” Dr. Parikh says.

Children’s National Hospital named Kavita Parikh, MD, MSHS, the Wendy Goldberg Professor of Translational Research in Child Health and Community Partnerships.

Dr. Parikh serves as the research director of the Division of Hospital Medicine and medical director of Quality and Safety Research at Children’s National. She is an investigator in the Center for Translational Research within the Children’s National Research Institute and a Professor of Pediatrics with tenure at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

The big picture

Dr. Parikh joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have funded 51 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families and foster discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

As a pediatric hospital medicine attending, Dr. Parikh cares for some of the most high-risk and vulnerable children. She has a firsthand view of the barriers families face, uniquely positioning her to recognize the urgent need for improved care access beyond the hospital. Dr. Parikh also values collaboration with other community organizations to develop sustainable solutions to support families outside the hospital.

“I am honored to step into this role, driven by a vision that every child can thrive when hospitals and communities work hand-in-hand,” Dr. Parikh says. “By connecting families and community partners, our hospital system can transform Hospital to Home care into a bridge for better health and brighter futures. I look forward to building strong teams and leading work that turns data into action and partnerships into progress. By strengthening the Hospital to Home journey, we can close gaps, lift barriers and create healthier futures for children.”

Moving the field forward

Wendy and Fred Goldberg, through their vision and generosity, are ensuring that Dr. Parikh and future holders of the Wendy Goldberg Professorship in Translational Research in Child Health and Community Partnerships align around a shared goal: strengthening the health and well-being of children by building data-informed, deeply collaborative partnerships that extend beyond the walls of the hospital. The Professorship will enable bold, new initiatives to elevate community engagement to avoid hospitalization and, where necessary, make the Hospital-to-Home transition easier and more effective for the many children whose conditions are exacerbated by living in low-income and disadvantaged communities.  Through strategic partnerships that address the needs of these communities, Dr. Parikh and her team will help bolster the health and well-being of children.

Wendy and Fred have a long philanthropic and volunteer leadership history at Children’s National. Fred served on the Children’s National Board and as chair of the Legal Affairs and Audit Committee. Wendy served on the Children’s National Board as well as the Safe Kids Worldwide Board, the HSC Board, the HSCSN Board, the Children’s School Services Board, Board of Visitors and the Children’s National Hospital Foundation Board. She also chaired the Children’s National Advocacy and Public Policy Board for many years. The Goldbergs share a particular interest in connecting community initiatives to hospital innovations.

“There are so many children and families who are living with serious chronic conditions, like asthma and diabetes, for example,” Wendy and Fred state. “Lack of access to quality food, unhealthy physical environments and even a parent’s mental health, can worsen these conditions and cause kids to miss school and make frequent emergency room visits. That’s why translational research and forging strong community alliances are necessary. Together, they help physician-scientists find real-world solutions to these public health challenges. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kavita Parikh to this vital role!”

2025 KidneyCure Research Scholar Grant recipients

Denver Brown, MD, awarded prestigious KidneyCure grant to advance pediatric CKD research

2025 KidneyCure Research Scholar Grant recipients

Denver Brown, MD, a pediatric nephrologist at Children’s National Hospital, has been named a 2025 KidneyCure Research Scholar Grant recipient. Her project, titled Metabolic Acidosis and Growth in a Heterogeneous Pediatric CKD Population: A Target Trial Emulation Study, addresses a critical gap in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children.

KidneyCure, established by the American Society of Nephrology, is the largest private funder of kidney-focused research, awarding $3.2 million this year to support 45 investigators. Dr. Brown’s award falls under the Transition to Independence Grants Program, which supports early-career researchers in establishing independent research careers.

Dr. Brown’s study will examine how treating metabolic acidosis affects linear growth in children with CKD, a population in which up to 35% experience growth impairment. “My research focuses on adding to, and increasing, evidence-based approaches to managing chronic kidney disease in children, with a particular focus on metabolic acidosis,” she said.

Instead of a traditional clinical trial, she will use target trial emulation, a method that applies advanced statistical techniques to real-world data from 11 institutions. “Target trial emulation is especially valuable in pediatric nephrology, where the rarity of CKD makes large-scale trials difficult to conduct,” she explained.

Dr. Brown hopes her findings will help reduce morbidity in pediatric CKD patients by identifying effective treatment strategies. “Poor linear growth affects up to 35% of the pediatric CKD population and has been associated with poor health and quality of life outcomes,” she noted.

Looking ahead, she aims to become a leader in pediatric clinical trials. “With the support of this award, I hope to gain skills in advanced statistical approaches that can be leveraged to conduct novel pediatric CKD-focused trials and studies.”

She also brings a personal connection to her work: “My oldest brother is a living-donor kidney transplant recipient. He and my younger brother, the donor, are thriving 15 years post-transplant.”

Her work reflects KidneyCure’s mission to support the next generation of nephrology leaders and drive research that improves patient care.

Matthew Bramble

Dr. Matthew Bramble named Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences

Matthew Bramble

“This award is a tremendous honor,” said Dr. Bramble, principal investigator in the Center for Precision Medicine and Genomics Research at Children’s National. “It will allow us to push the boundaries of our work and explore new ways to understand and treat devastating childhood diseases.”

Children’s National Hospital is proud to congratulate Matthew Bramble, PhD, on being named a 2025 Pew Scholar in the Biomedical Sciences. This highly competitive honor recognizes outstanding early-career researchers who are driving innovation and discovery in human health. Dr. Bramble is one of just 22 scientists nationwide selected this year to join the Pew Scholars Program, which provides four years of funding and access to a network of more than 1,000 leading biomedical researchers.

“This award is a tremendous honor,” said Dr. Bramble, principal investigator in the Center for Precision Medicine and Genomics Research at Children’s National. “It will allow us to push the boundaries of our work and explore new ways to understand and treat devastating childhood diseases.”

Dive deeper

Dr. Bramble’s research focuses on konzo, a little-known but serious neurological condition that causes sudden and irreversible paralysis in children. Konzo primarily affects families in rural regions of sub-Saharan Africa who rely on improperly processed cassava as a staple food. The disease is linked to compounds in cassava that become toxic when combined with poor nutrition.

“Konzo is heartbreaking because it strikes vulnerable children and is entirely preventable,” said Dr. Bramble. “If we can better understand the molecular pathways that lead to paralysis, we can develop strategies to protect children and potentially inform treatments for other neurological disorders.”

His lab uses advanced OMIC’s technologies to study how toxins from cassava interact with a child’s biology, aiming to uncover how the disease damages the nervous system. By examining the molecular biology of konzo, Dr. Bramble hopes to reveal insights not only for affected communities abroad but also for understanding broader principles of brain health and development.

Why it matters

The Pew Scholars Program in the Biomedical Sciences, run by The Pew Charitable Trusts, has supported early-career scientists for 40 years. Scholars receive multiyear funding to pursue bold, creative approaches to complex scientific problems. Many alumni have gone on to win major scientific awards and make discoveries that have shaped modern medicine.

For Dr. Bramble, joining the program provides vital support for high-risk, high-reward science and connects him to a collaborative network of researchers across disciplines.

“This award validates the importance of studying conditions like konzo that don’t often receive attention but have a profound impact on children’s lives,” he said.

Dr. Bramble’s recognition underscores not only Children’s National Hospital’s commitment to advancing pediatric research and fostering discoveries that improve children’s health worldwide but also the institution’s commitment to providing resources and a setting for this type of unique, cutting-edge work. By supporting investigators who explore fundamental biology and rare diseases, the hospital helps build the foundation for tomorrow’s treatments.

With the support of the Pew award, Dr. Bramble and his team are poised to deepen their understanding of konzo and its impact on the nervous system—and, in the process, generate insights with far-reaching implications for pediatric neurology.

Dr. Marius George Linguraru accepts the IEEE EMBS Distinguished Service Award.

Dr. Marius George Linguraru honored with IEEE EMBS Distinguished Service Award

Dr. Marius George Linguraru accepts the IEEE EMBS Distinguished Service Award.

Dr. Marius George Linguraru accepts the IEEE EMBS Distinguished Service Award in Copenhagen, honoring his global impact in pediatric AI and dedication to advancing children’s health through innovation.

Marius George Linguraru, DPhil, MA, MSc, Connor Family Professor and Endowed Chair in Research and Innovation at Children’s National Hospital, has received the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS).  IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity with over 486,000 members in more than 190 countries. This honor recognizes his “unwavering dedication to service, mentorship and scientific excellence” and notes that “his distinguished contributions have strengthened the society and expanded EMBS’s global reach.”

At Children’s National, Dr. Linguraru leads groundbreaking artificial intelligence (AI) research initiatives focused on transforming pediatric care. His work provides non-invasive, accessible solutions for early detection and treatment of complex childhood diseases, giving vulnerable children everywhere a better chance of healthier lives.

Through the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation and other interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Linguraru and his team develop AI tools that support clinicians in diagnosing and monitoring conditions ranging from rare genetic disorders to endemic heart diseases and critical pediatric cancers. His dedication to innovation has placed Children’s National at the forefront of AI-powered global pediatric health care.

“IEEE EMBS has been a professional home throughout my career, and this award holds special personal significance,” Dr. Linguraru shared. “It has been incredibly fulfilling to contribute to the organization while also advancing our mission at Children’s National, to create and translate technologies that improve care for children and families around the world.”

In addition to his leadership at Children’s National, Dr. Linguraru holds faculty appointments as Professor of Radiology and Pediatrics at George Washington University. He also co-founded PediaMetrix Inc., a company focused on improving pediatric health through AI innovation, and serves as the president of the Medical Image Computing and Computer Assisted Intervention (MICCAI) Society.

Dr. Linguraru’s commitment to service has been reflected in his numerous leadership roles within IEEE EMBS, including Chair of the Technical Committee for Biomedical Imaging and Image Processing, General Chair of the IEEE International Symposium on Biomedical Imaging (ISBI) 2019, and Distinguished Lecturer of the society. His contributions have inspired colleagues and future leaders across the field.

His work has earned widespread recognition, including the Excellence in Engineering Award at the UK Houses of Parliament and media features in The Economist, The Washington Post, and The Times (London). Yet it is his dedication to improving the lives of children that remains at the heart of his mission.

“I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and collaborators, both at Children’s National and around the world, who share this vision of using AI technology to make a real difference in pediatric health,” said Dr. Linguraru. “This award is not only a personal honor but a recognition of the incredible work we do together to create a healthier future for children everywhere.”

Michael Keller, MD

Michael D. Keller, MD, named as Inaugural Professor of Precision Medicine

Michael Keller, MDChildren’s National Hospital named Michael D. Keller, MD, as the inaugural Professor of Precision Medicine.

Dr. Keller, a pediatric immunologist, directs the Translational Research Laboratory within the Center for Cancer and Immunology Research (CCIR). He also leads the Jeffrey Modell Diagnostic and Research Center for Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders.

A generous gift from the Indian Paintbrush Foundation endowed this new professorship.

The big picture

Dr. Keller joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold an endowed chair. Altogether, generous donors have funded 51 professorships at the hospital.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families. They foster discoveries and innovations. They honor the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Keller’s research focuses on adoptive T-cell therapies for treating infections in immunocompromised patients. He seeks to improve outcomes for children with primary immunodeficiency disorders and those undergoing bone marrow transplants for cancer. He leads several Phase I-II studies of virus-specific T-cell therapies.

Dr. Keller has authored many peer-reviewed articles and helped shape guidelines on the treatment and diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency disorders. He is a member of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology; the Clinical Immunology Society; the European Society of Immunodeficiency and the Primary Immunodeficiency Treatment Consortium.

“This professorship will amplify Dr. Keller’s pioneering work, which promises to transform care for children with immunodeficiencies,” says Catherine Bollard, MBChB, MD, Senior Vice President and Chief Research Officer. Dr. Bollard leads the Cell Enhancement and Technologies for Immunotherapy (CETI) Program and holds the Dr. Robert J. and Florence T. Bosworth Distinguished Professorship in Cancer and Transplantation Biology Research.

Moving the field forward

The Indian Paintbrush Foundation’s support enabled Children’s National to establish the professorship. Endowment funds will help Dr. Keller and future chairholders launch bold precision medicine initiatives. Targeted diagnostics and therapies will deliver maximum health benefits with minimal side effects.

“The Indian Paintbrush Foundation’s deep commitment to the well-being of children and families will drive our work to personalize treatment and expand access to care,” says Nathan Kuppermann, MD, MPH, Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer. Dr. Kuppermann directs the Children’s National Research Institute and holds the Fight For Children Distinguished Chair of Academic Medicine.

Marc DiSabella, DO

Marc DiSabella, DO, honored with Child Neurology Society 2025 Training Director Award

Marc DiSabella, DO

Marc DiSabella, DO, of Children’s National Hospital has been named the 2025 recipient of the Child Neurology Society (CNS) Training Director Award.

Marc DiSabella, DO, of Children’s National Hospital has been named the 2025 recipient of the Child Neurology Society (CNS) Training Director Award. This national recognition honors program directors who demonstrate outstanding leadership in education, mentorship and curriculum development within child neurology and neurodevelopmental pediatrics.

Dr. DiSabella joined Children’s National and 2008 and currently serves as associate chief of Neurology Operations, director of the Headache Program.  He previously led the Child Neurology Residency Program and served as director of Neurology Education.

A dedicated educator, Dr. DiSabella completed the Master Teacher Leadership Development Program at the George Washington University. His innovative teaching style and commitment to excellence have helped raise the bar for neurology education at Children’s National and beyond.

“Dr. DiSabella is an exceptional, enthusiastic and lucid teacher who has introduced several successful innovations over the past 15 years,” said William D. Gaillard, MD, Chief of Neurology at Children’s National. “He has trained more than 50 child neurologists, many now leaders in the field, and built one of the country’s foremost multidisciplinary headache programs. His administrative talents and positive, can-do attitude continue to benefit the entire department.”

Dr. DiSabella will be honored during the CNS Annual Meeting in Charlotte, North Carolina, in October.

The CNS Training Director Award reflects the organization’s mission to recognize the achievements of child neurologists  who are model educators, and to recognize those who shape the future of child neurology through education, mentorship and leadership.

Pharmacy team receiving URAC award

Children’s National earns URAC accreditation in specialty pharmacy

URAC sealChildren’s National Hospital is proud to share that it has earned URAC accreditation for specialty pharmacy — its second recognition of this kind. The hospital previously received Telehealth accreditation from URAC, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in patient care.

“This accreditation is a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering the highest standard of care to our patients,” said Johnny Yoko-Uzomah, PharmD, DPLA, director of Specialty Pharmacy Services at Children’s National. “It reinforces the trust families place in us and highlights the dedication of our staff to continuous improvement, safety and excellence in everything we do.”

URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality by setting high standards for clinical practice, consumer protections, performance measurement, operations infrastructure and risk management. By achieving this status, Children’s National has demonstrated its commitment to quality care, enhanced processes, patient safety and improved outcomes.

“This distinguished achievement of receiving URAC accreditation and having it presented by Dr. Griffin today demonstrates a seal of quality ensuring Children’s National Hospital’s pharmacy operations and patient management services adhere to the highest set of standards,” said Christopher Wilson, PharmD, MBA, senior director of Pharmacy Operations at Clearway Health. “It also exemplifies the incredible work of the Clearway Health team in providing an ongoing compliance and audit roadmap for reaccreditation readiness in a finite amount of time. Today, Children’s National Hospital joins one of only a few children’s hospitals in the Mid-Atlantic region to earn this accreditation and the ability to provide comprehensive care to patients on specialty medications, keeping the care of children close to the providers they trust.”

“Now more than ever, specialty pharmacies are an essential part of the patient care team and patient experience. URAC congratulates Children’s National on their achievement of Specialty Pharmacy Accreditation. This achievement demonstrates excellence in pharmacy operations, product handling, patient education and patient management. When an organization achieves URAC accreditation, they demonstrate their commitment to improving their quality of care, which is important to patients, providers and payers,” said URAC’s president and CEO Shawn Griffin, MD.

Pharmacy team receiving URAC award

Beth Tarini

Honor bestowed on Beth A. Tarini, MD, MS, MBA

Beth Tarini

Dr. Tarini has extensively studied policies to optimize the delivery of genetic services for newborns and their families.

Children’s National Hospital named Beth A. Tarini, MD, MS, MBA, as the Richard and Agnes Hudson Endowed Chair in Health Services Research at Children’s National Hospital.

Dr. Tarini, a pediatrician, is the Co-Director of the Center for Translational Research in the Children’s National Research Institute, the hospital’s Director of Resident Research and a professor of pediatrics at George Washington University.

The big picture

Dr. Tarini joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists with an endowed chair. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have funded 51 professorships altogether.

Professorships support groundbreaking work on behalf of children and their families and foster new discoveries and innovations in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and the donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Tarini has extensively studied policies to optimize the delivery of genetic services for newborns and their families. She has obtained $10 million in federal and foundation funding. A national leader in her field, she has served as president of the Society for Pediatric Research and as an appointed member of the Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children. In the latter role, she helped advise the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on the most appropriate application of universal newborn screening tests, technologies, policies, guidelines and standards.

“It’s an honor to receive the Hudson Chair, which allows me to bridge research and real-world impact,” says Dr. Tarini. “With this support, I will continue working to translate scientific discovery into better genetic services and policy for all newborns and their families.”

The visionary investment from the estate of Richard and Agnes Hudson will ensure that Dr. Tarini and future chairholders can launch bold new initiatives to rapidly advance the field of health services research, elevate the hospital’s academic leadership and improve the health and well-being of children.

Nathan Kuppermann

Honor bestowed on Nathan Kuppermann, MD, MPH

Nathan Kuppermann

Children’s National Hospital named Nathan Kuppermann, MD, MPH, the Fight For Children Distinguished Chair of Academic Medicine at Children’s National.

Children’s National Hospital named Nathan Kuppermann, MD, MPH, the Fight For Children Distinguished Chair of Academic Medicine at Children’s National.

Dr. Kuppermann serves as executive vice president and chief academic officer at Children’s National. He is the director of the Children’s National Research Institute and the chair of the Department of Pediatrics and associate dean of Pediatric Academic Affairs at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

The big picture

Dr. Kuppermann joins a distinguished group of Children’s National physicians and scientists who hold endowed chairs. Children’s National is grateful to generous donors who have funded 49 professorships.

Professorships support groundbreaking research and innovation on behalf of children and their families and foster new discoveries and therapies in pediatric medicine. These appointments carry prestige and honor that reflect the recipient’s achievements and donor’s commitment to advancing and sustaining knowledge.

Why it matters

Dr. Kuppermann is a pediatric emergency medicine physician, clinical epidemiologist and leader in emergency medical services for children. He specializes in clinical trials and clinical prediction rules using large cohorts of acutely ill and injured children. He is world-renowned for his research and mentorship.

“I was drawn to Children’s National by its nationally recognized work and dedication to innovation and team science,” says Dr. Kuppermann. “I’m eager to contribute to the remarkable work being done in both the research and education space to continue to improve the understanding, prevention and treatment of childhood diseases.”

Fight For Children’s support ensures that Dr. Kuppermann and future holders of this professorship will launch bold, new initiatives to rapidly advance pediatric medical research, elevate our leadership and improve the lives of children in our community and around the world.

Moving the field forward

Fight For Children was founded in 1990 by the late Joseph (Joe) E. Robert, Jr., with the mission of improving the lives of underserved children in the nation’s capital. The organization has impacted the lives of more than 400,000 young people throughout the D.C. metropolitan area.

Fight For Children endowed the Fight For Children Chair in Academic Medicine in 1997 to support the clinical research initiatives of the Chief Academic Officer. Most recently, in 2019, they made a $5M gift to create the Fight For Children Sports Medicine Center at Children’s National. It is the region’s first site dedicated to the orthopedic surgery, sports medicine and comprehensive concussion needs of young athletes.

Joe Robert was an entrepreneur and visionary who believed in the importance of investing in children through education and healthcare. His largest gift to Children’s National created and endowed our Joseph E. Robert, Jr., Center for Surgical Care. He was also instrumental in developing the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation at Children’s National, created in 2009 with a $150 million gift from the government of Abu Dhabi.

“Joe’s legacy continues to be represented through the incredible work being done at Children’s National,” says David Fensterheim, chairman and interim CEO of Fight For Children. “Dr. Kuppermann is a pioneer in pediatric healthcare. We are proud to honor his cutting-edge vision as the latest holder of this prestigious professorship.”

This professorship embodies Joe’s legacy and Fight For Children’s commitment to inspire others to think bigger and differently to advance pediatric healthcare for children in the community and beyond.