Author: Marcy

WashU Medicine OBGYN and Barnes-Jewish Hospital Earns Prestigious “MO PQC Stars” Designation for Maternal Health Excellence

ST. LOUIS, MO — WashU Medicine OBGYN and Barnes-Jewish Hospital have been officially recognized by the Missouri Perinatal Quality Collaborative (MO PQC), in partnership with the Missouri Hospital Association (MHA), for their outstanding commitment to improving maternal and infant health outcomes across the state. The team has been awarded the prestigious MO PQC Stars designation […]

Nardhy Gomez-Lopez, PhD, Named Director of CRePHS 

We are delighted to announce that Dr. Nardhy Gomez-Lopez, Professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and a secondary appointment in the Department of Pathology and Immunology, became Director of the Center for Reproductive Health Sciences (CRePHS) effective July 1, 2026. She previously served as Associate Director of the Center. Dr. Gomez-Lopez succeeds Sarah K. England, PhD, the Alan A. and Edith L. Wolff Professor of Medicine, who served as […]

Team Member Awards 2025

We are delighted to announce the recipients of the 2025 Team Member Awards, as nominated by their peers. These awards recognize the outstanding contributions and dedication of our colleagues, who continuously go above and beyond to support our department’s goals and values. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional teamwork, innovation, and commitment to excellence. […]

Wood Appointed Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Strategy for OBGYN Department 

Sara Wood, MD, MHPE, Appointed Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Strategy for the Obstetrics & Gynecology Department  The department of Obstetrics & Gynecology is delighted to announce the appointment of Sara Wood, MD, MHPE, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, as the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and Strategy for the Department of OBGYN, effective July 1, 2026. In this newly created position, Dr. Wood […]

Dr. Massad Retires from practice

After a remarkable career dedicated to advancing gynecologic oncology, Dr. Leslie Stewart Massad Jr., Professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, retired on April 1, 2026.  Dr. Massad completed his undergraduate studies at Williams College, earning a B.A. in Biology magna cum laude and being inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He went on to receive […]

The REI Handbook: From Spiral Bound to Standard of Care 

The REI Handbook that many Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility physicians rely on today traces back to the vision of Dan Lebovic. While on faculty at the University of Michigan shortly after completing fellowship, Lebovic noticed that the Oncology division had a compact spiral-bound guide for residents. At the time, he was studying for his REI oral board exam and saw an opportunity to […]

WashU Medicine OBGYN Ranks No. 14 in the Nation for NIH Funding

The Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research has released its 2025 national rankings, placing WashU Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at No. 14 in the country for funding from the National Institutes of Health—a significant achievement amid a challenging federal research climate. The ranking comes at a time when NIH funding faces budget uncertainties, […]

WashU Medicine Urogynecology opens at Progress West Hospital

On November 3, 2025, WashU Medicine Urogynecology, celebrated the grand opening of its first dedicated urogynecology services at Progress West Hospital with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting event. This marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s ongoing commitment to offering comprehensive and specialized care for women’s pelvic health.  Alec Szlachta-McGinn, MD, FACOG, a WashU Medicine urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgeon, and Julie Hake, DNP, […]

Diana Gray retires after 40+ years in Practice

Celebrating the Distinguished Career of Dr. Diana Gray St. Louis, MO—November 20, 2025—In a heartfelt gathering, esteemed colleagues, students, and friends celebrated the exceptional career and achievements of Dr. Diana Gray, who is now embarking on a well-earned retirement. Dr. Gray’s illustrious journey has been marked by her extraordinary contributions to medicine, education, and leadership, […]

Mutch Elected President of the Society of Pelvic Surgeons 

November 3, 2025  David Mutch, professor of obstetrics and gynecology, has been elected president-elect of the Society of Pelvic Surgeons—a distinguished international organization dedicated to advancing multidisciplinary pelvic surgery.  “Being elected president-elect of the Society of Pelvic Surgeons is a profound honor,” said Mutch. “I am thrilled to be a part of this prestigious society and look […]

Campbell Appointed Vice Chair of Faculty Development for OBGYN Department 

Heather Campbell, MD, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Appointed Vice Chair of Faculty Development for the Obstetrics & Gynecology Department  The department of OBGYN is delighted to announce the appointment of Heather Campbell, MD, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, as the Vice Chair of Faculty Development for Obstetrics and Gynecology, effective October 1, 2025. Dr. Campbell has […]

Dan Lebovic Recognized in Fertility and Sterility 75th Anniversary Feature

As part of its 75th anniversary celebration, Fertility and Sterility published a special article recognizing the most-cited papers in the journal’s history — highlighting the research that has most influenced the field of reproductive medicine over the decades. We are proud to share that Dr. Dan Lebovic and his 2001 paper Immunobiology of endometriosis, was […]

Willers Appointed Chief of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics & Gynecology Division

After a thorough national search, we are delighted to announce that Denise M.S. Willers, MD, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been appointed Chief of the Division of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics & Gynecology (ASOG), effective October 1, 2025. Dr. Willers stepped into the role of interim chief in July 2024, and her exceptional leadership […]

Thaker Appointed Chief, Division of Gynecologic Oncology

The Department is pleased to announce that Premal Thaker, MD, MS, the David & Lynn Mutch Distinguished Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Trials, has been appointed as Chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, effective June 1, 2025. Dr. Thaker served for almost 18 months as Interim Chief and […]

Dr. Jeannie Kelly Honored with BJH Medical Staff Association Early Career Award

St. Louis, MO — Dr. Jeannie Chen Kelly, Chief of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) and Vice Chair of Obstetrics at WashU Medicine OB-GYN, has been recognized with the BJH Medical Staff Association Early Career Award. This honor celebrates her extraordinary contributions within the first decade of completing her training. Journey into Maternal-Fetal Medicine Dr. Kelly’s academic path […]

Black Maternal Health Week 2025

Sponsored by: WashU Medicine, BJH Women & Infants & Goldfarb School of Nursing Doula Reception April 10, 2025     1:00 – 3:00 PM Parkview Tower Conference Room D Contact Lashanda.Jackson@bjc.org to participate. Centering Joy in the Black Birthing Experience Conference April 11, 2025 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Goldfarb School of Nursing Registration required: SOLD […]

Match Day 2025

We are excited to have these nine outstanding candidates joining our program in June!  Thank you to the education team and everyone who made this interview season such a success.  Ready to rock the new Academic Year of 2026! Abigail Bell, MD WashU Medicine @washumedicine  Kallie Cobourn, MD University of Nevada Reno School of Medicine @unrmed  Emily Lambert, […]

WashU Medicine OBGYN Publishes Chair’s Report FY24

We are delighted to announce the release of the Department of OBGYN’s annual report for the fiscal year 2024 (FY24) at WashU Medicine. The report highlights significant progress in expanding clinical services to enhance patient access, generating impactful research, and dedicating efforts to education through professional development and community partnerships. Our faculty and staff have […]

Kelly appointed Chief, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Ultrasound

After a national search, we are pleased to announce that Jeannie Kelly, MD, MS, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been appointed as Chief of the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, effective March 1, 2025. She stepped into the role of interim chief in September 2024, and with her strong leadership and expertise, she has […]

Team Member Awards 2024

We are delighted to announce the recipients of the 2024 Team Member Awards, as nominated by their peers. These awards recognize the outstanding contributions and dedication of our colleagues, who continuously go above and beyond to support our department’s goals and values. Each of these individuals has demonstrated exceptional teamwork, innovation, and commitment to excellence. […]

Wellness Screening at the COH

Wellness Champion Allison Wyrsch held the first-ever ObGyn health screening for the entire department! Our HR partners brought a team to test A1c level (blood test to measure diabetes risk), current blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key indicators in detecting disease early. WashU employees can participate once a year and by completing their appointment: receive […]

Sonn welcomes Med Students, Khabele gives Keynote at 2024 White Coat Ceremony

First-year medical students at WashU Medicine in St. Louis received their white coats, symbolizing their entrance into the medical profession. Dr. Tammy Sonn, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and a Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology, welcomed the incoming medical students. Dr. Dineo Khabele, the Mitchell & Elaine Yanow Professor and head of the Department of […]

Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino history and culture. While we celebrate Hispanic and Latino communities beyond this month, from September 15 to October 15 we give extra recognition to the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, popular and […]

REI Fellow Accepted to Residents and Fellows Diversity Initiative (RFDI)

Dr. Aileen Portugal, REI Clinical Fellow, was recently accepted to participate in the RFDI this academic year, a BJC/WashU/SLCH consortium initiative to advance health equity. Congratulations, Dr. Portugal! Established in 2006 by the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Foundation, the Residents and Fellows Diversity Initiative (RFDI) focuses on promoting a diverse and inclusive environment within our community to […]

This is Cancer: Stage 4 Endometrial Cancer at 41: “You Have Cancer; It Doesn’t Have You”

The early symptoms were not clear. But after feeling “off” for a few days after traveling internationally Candice took herself to the ER. Soon after that she was diagnosed with Stage 4 endometrial cancer. She was just 41. With the guidance and expertise of Washington University gynecologic oncologist Dr. Premal Thaker, Candice welcomes each day, […]

Scott Biest retires after 31 years in Practice

After 31 years of practice, Dr. Scott Biest, Chief of the Division of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, retires on June 30, 2024. Dr. Biest earned his bachelor’s and medical degrees in the combined program at the University of Missouri Kansas City. After he completed his residency at Washington University, Dr. Biest joined Drs. David Weinstein […]

Black Maternal Health Week 2024 recap

April 11-17, 2024 – Updates from the DEIA Committee This week provided an opportunity for us to raise awareness and take action to improve the health and well-being of Black mothers and birthing people.  As part of our commitment to supporting maternal health, we have organized a series of events aimed at educating, empowering, and […]

Medical Students Honor Four Mentors from OBGYN

Medical students at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis recently honored faculty and residents with Distinguished Service and Teaching Awards (DSTAs) for the 2023-24 academic year. From our department, four mentors were honored. Read the full article here

Sarah Smith named finalist for 2024 Excellence in Nursing Awards

Congrats to all the recent BJC Excellence in Nursing Awardees! Our very own Sarah Smith, RN, BSN, CLC, was selected as a finalist for the category of women’s health. Sarah works as a Nurse Coordinator in our fetal care center, providing compassionate care to families from day one and throughout their experience. Additionally, shout out […]

Powell named 2024 Dean’s Impact Award Recipient

Throughout his career, Matthew Powell, MD, has leveraged his own professional standing to advance others’ careers through direct one-on-one mentorship and sponsorship, providing opportunities, expanding networks and nominating protégées for awards and promotions. Since joining our faculty in 2002, Powell has helped train over 35 gynecologic oncology fellows, including 14 who benefited from his leadership […]

Black Maternal Health Week 2024

We are excited to invite you to participate in the upcoming events for Black Maternal Health Week, which runs from April 11-17, 2024. This week provides an opportunity for us to raise awareness and take action to improve the health and well-being of Black mothers and birthing people. As part of our commitment to supporting […]

Matthew Powell, MD, named the Ira C. and Judith Gall Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Matthew Powell, MD, a renowned high-volume surgeon and leader in clinical research, has been named the Ira C. and Judith Gall Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. This position was held by Dr. David Mutch, the inaugural holder of this endowed professorship. “We are proud to have […]

Match Day 2024

✨ We are absolutely thrilled to welcome this new intern class of 2028! ✨ India Claflin – Creighton University SOM Symphony Davis – Morehouse SOM Andy Habib – Georgetown University SOM Anna Jones – U of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink SOM Ashlyn Kinard – U of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth April Lewis – SLU SOM […]

Jayme Trevino, CFP Fellow, will take on ACOG Darney/Landy Fellowship after graduation

Congratulations to graduating CFP fellow, Jayme Trevino, MD, MPH, who will assume the Darney/Landy Fellowship position with ACOG after graduation. The Darney/Landy Fellow position is a one-year, post- Complex Family Planning Fellowship placement for obstetrician-gynecologists that honors the clinical excellence of Phil Darney, MD, and the collaborative advocacy of Uta Landy, PhD. This position offers […]

Eisenberg appointed Chief, Division of Complex Family Planning

After a national search, we are pleased to announce that David Eisenberg, MD, MPH, FACOG, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, has been appointed as Chief of the Division of Complex Family Planning, effective March 1, 2024. He stepped into the position of Interim Chief in December 2022 and is well-positioned to take on the permanent role based on his […]

Nelson Society Hosts 2nd Annual Resident Career Day

The Nelson Society hosted their second annual Resident Career Day on February 21, 2024. This dedicated event provided residents with valuable insights and guidance regarding their future careers. The day consisted of a special grand rounds guest speaker, Dr. William Leininger, Naval Medical Center, San Diego. Next were presentations from Alumni member, Dr. Jeffery Mormol […]

FROM SILENCE TO SOLUTIONS: TREATING PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

BY JENNIFER FINK Originally published Jan 2024Pelvic organ prolapse—which occurs when the uterus, bowel, bladder or top of the vagina “drops” or bulges into the vagina—affects one in four women in their 40s, one in three women in their 60s and half of all women in their 80s, according to the American College of Obstetricians […]

Dr. Cantave and Dr. Staples Recognized as Inaugural Awardees of the David G. Mutch Residency Research Scholarship

The Michael D. Nelson Society Board is delighted to announce Dr. Melissa “Missy” Cantave and Dr. Halley Staples, as the inaugural awardees of the David G. Mutch Residency Research Scholarship Award. This honor is given to support and enhance the scholarly research activity of residents while at this level of their professional journey.   Dr. Missy […]

Celia Santi, MD, PhD, named the James P. Crane Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology

Dr. Celia Santi, MD, PhD, an internationally renowned and respected leader in the field of Reproductive Biology, has been named the James P. Crane Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. “We are exceedingly fortunate to count Dr. Santi among our esteemed faculty. Her exceptional contributions to groundbreaking […]

Premal Thaker, MD named the inaugural David & Lynn Mutch Distinguished Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology 

Premal H. Thaker, MD, MS, an accomplished clinician investigator and Director of Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Trials, has been named the David & Lynn Mutch Distinguished Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.  “We are truly fortunate to have Dr. Thaker as a valued member of our faculty. Her […]

England Elected to National Academy of Medicine (Links to an external site)

Reproductive biologist Sarah K. England, PhD, and two others from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine, a part of the National Academy of Sciences. Membership in the organization is one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine in the United […]

Raghuraman Named Chief of the Division of Clinical Research in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

Dr. Nandini Raghuraman has been named Chief of the Division of Clinical Research in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology effective October 1, 2023. Building upon the legacy of our previous directors, Raghuraman will oversee the Division of Clinical Research, which provides specialized facilities and services to support clinical research in women’s reproductive health. “Nan’s […]

Nelson Society Partners with David G. Mutch to Launch Residency Research Scholarship 

Residents may now submit their applications for the David G. Mutch Residency Research Scholarship. This scholarship was generously started by David G. Mutch, MD, the Ira C. and Judith Gall Professor, in partnership with the Nelson Alumni Society to support and enhance the scholarly research activity of residents.  The scholarship will give two $1,000 awards, twice per academic […]

Registration Now Open for the 48th Annual Symposium

Eric P. Newman Education Center @ Washington University Medical CenterOctober 19, 2023 8:00 AM – October 20, 2023 3:30 PM Coordinator Michelle R Padgett, MS, ATC, Washington University CME Agenda This conference is offered as an in-person course only. Thursday, October 19, 2023   7:30am Registration & Continental Breakfast    8:10     Welcome – Makeba Williams, MD, NCMP Session I […]