March 9, 2015

Dean Mark Richardson recently appointed Robert Schelonka, M.D., to the Credit Unions for Kids Professorship in Neonatology. Dr. Schelonka joined OHSU in 2009 and is professor of pediatrics and head of the neonatology division, OHSU School of Medicine. As of May 2014, there were 78 endowed faculty positions in the School of Medicine, including professorships and chairs.

“Today is an extraordinary day. Dr. Schelonka is one of the hardest-working and kindest human beings I have ever met,” said Jim Ervin, executive director, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Foundation. “I continue to be inspired by the Credit Union for Kids partnership.” 

From 2010 to 2012, Credit Unions for Kids raised $1.1 million in support of the neonatal intensive care unit at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. To date, Credit Unions for Kids has raised more than $10 million for Doernbecher.

In his remarks to Dr. Schelonka, Dean Richardson said, “This is a tremendous honor, both in recognition of what you’ve already achieved and what has yet to be accomplished.” 

“I’m humbled and honored by this prestigious award,” said Dr. Schelonka. “The babies and families we care for don’t have a strong voice. Credit Unions for Kids heard that and came through in a big way. I accept this professorship on behalf of the over 1,000 critically ill babies we care for each year.”

Faculty and endowed professorships at OHSU

As called for in OHSU’s Vision 2020 Strategic Plan and reinforced in the School of Medicine Research Roadmap, OHSU will partner to make Oregon a leader in health and science innovation to improve the health and well-being of Oregon and beyond. Key to achieving this goal is recruiting, supporting and retaining a faculty that will collaborate to drive excellence and innovation across OHSU.

Endowed professorships allow world-class physicians and scientists to pursue promising work at OHSU that will hasten the pace of discovery and ultimately benefit patients across Oregon and far beyond. Income from professorship endowments typically provides salary support, start-up funds and other resources to enable the holder’s maximum potential and productivity. Read our previous article on Inside the SoM (OHSU login required).

Pictured at top left to right: Kelly Schrader, On Point Credit Union; Dana Braner, M.D., interim chair of pediatrics, OHSU School of Medicine; Emily Rose, First Tech FCU; Dr. Schelonka; Kasey Rockwell, US Agencies Credit Union; Rob Stuart, On Point Credit Union; Jim Ervin, executive director, Doernbecher Children's Hospital Foundation

At bottom: Dean Richardson congratulates Dr. Schelonka (seated)