Message from the Chair

As we turn the page on another academic year, I’m reminded of the energy, purpose, and promise that define the Department of Emergency Medicine at UMMC. This issue of the E.D. Dispatch reflects the depth and breadth of our collective mission- training future leaders, advancing impactful research, and fostering excellence in every sense of the word.

First, it is with great excitement that we welcome the Residency Class of 2028. These 16 interns represent a wide range of backgrounds and bring a diversity of perspectives that will no doubt strengthen our department. We’re honored they’ve chosen to begin their emergency medicine careers with us and we look forward to supporting them every step of the way.

Our alumni continue to inspire us as they lead by example well beyond Mississippi. In this issue, we proudly recognize Drs. C.J. Winckler, Gerad Troutman, and Chico Desai. They now serve as leaders in the Texas Emergency Medical Task Force. Their work in disaster response and EMS system development reflects the values we strive to instill in all our trainees: clinical excellence, decisive leadership, and a commitment to service.

At the same time, we celebrate the incredible progress of our Women in Emergency Medicine (WEM) group, whose programming this year embodied the spirit of advocacy, mentorship, and wellness. From hosting self-defense classes and yoga sessions to leading impactful lectures, WEM continues to build a supportive and empowering environment for women across all stages of training and practice. We thank Drs. Heather Deville and Amanda Huffman for their leadership and welcome Drs. Lauren Hopper and Megan McLin as they take the helm.

Finally, we highlight a major milestone in our institution’s commitment to violence prevention: the launch of the Mississippi Center for Violence Research (MCVR). This new center brings together interdisciplinary leaders, including several from our own department, to address the root causes of violence and create healthier, safer communities across our state. The MCVR is a vital step forward in understanding and preventing violence as a public health issue, and we are proud to be part of this collaborative effort.

Taken together, these stories represent the direction we are headed: bold, inclusive, and impact-driven. Whether through clinical care, research, education, or leadership, our department continues to grow in both scope and purpose.

To everyone—new interns, faculty, alumni, and staff—thank you for the energy and excellence you bring to this work every day.

Warm regards,

Kendall