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AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM OUR NEW MSCE PRESIDENT, DR. STACEY WATT!!

"I have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to the advancement of the specialty of anesthesiology by promoting premier educational opportunities as well as inspiring research initiatives and clinical excellence within our department. As a leader within the department, I have shared my background as an educator with medical students, residents, fellows and all of the learners rotating within the operating suites. My Master of Health Professions Education (MHPE) degree facilitated my efforts to lead the department in continual curriculum development in order to meet the changing needs of our students.

In recognition of my efforts, I received the Distinguished Educator Award from the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Clinical excellence and the drive to provide safe, efficient and quality patient care to the residents of Western New York are at the core of our mission. In my role as chief of service for the Department of Anesthesiology within Kaleida Health, I have spearheaded quality initiatives and the development of guidelines to improve patient outcomes across our surgical specialties. The importance of innovation and research to the advancement of our department is demonstrated through my work as a leader in Lean Six Sigma training, patent applications and as a research mentor in our T32 NIH Research Training Grant. My research is focused on heat-related illnesses and injuries in athletes.

By serving as an advisor to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and volunteering my time as an international Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States (MHAUS) hotline consultant, I have utilized my expertise in malignant hyperthermia and heat-related illnesses to further our understanding of the link between heat, physical strain and malignant hyperthermia. As an athlete who has had the honor of representing the United States in both the U.S. Olympic Festival and Pan American Games, I provide a unique vantage point that has proven valuable in the advancement of our understanding of this disease process.

The link between our program and the Western New York community cannot be overstated. As a proud member of our community, I have worked to ensure our department places a high value on community involvement and giving back to those we serve. As a member of our local Chamber of Commerce and UB’s DoctHERS program, I am a strong believer in the need for professionals to promote gender equity and to mentor, sponsor and advocate for our next generation of healthcare leaders."