Message from the Chair—May, 2022
Vineet Chopra, MD, MSc
Dear Colleagues,
Our DOM communications team has helped reformat our newsletter, aiming for brevity, visual appeal and interactivity. For topics of interest, you will always find more in-depth coverage with the click of a button. Optimizing communications is a priority of the DOM and I hope this new approach makes it easier for you to access key highlights.
It is with mixed emotions that I share the news that Andrew Fontenot, MD, head of the Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, will be leaving the DOM for an exciting opportunity to join Regeneron as their global program head for immunology and inflammation. His last day will be May 30.
Dr. Fontenot is a scientist that many of us admire. His work in chronic beryllium disease has served as an important model of organ-specific, immune destruction and has allowed for deeper understanding of various related diseases. His science has been continuously funded by the NIH and his work has defined the structural basis of berrylium-induced lung disease. Moreover, he has been a mentor to many junior faculty and a solider during our battles with COVID, seeing patients on our wards and on the pulmonary consult service. To say he will be missed is therefore an understatement. A plan for interim leadership for the division will be announced in the near future.
Speaking of transitions, please join me in welcoming all of our new employees to the Department of Medicine. Welcome aboard!
As noted in my message last week, I’m continuing to incorporate gratitude throughout my personal and professional life. We’ve come so far, even in the last seven months, and I want to express my gratitude to all of you—for your dedication, commitment and perseverance throughout these challenging times.
I truly appreciate each and every one of you and look forward to brighter days ahead. The renewal and hope that spring brings is all around us in this beautiful state we call home—Colorado. I hope you are enjoying the season as much as I am.
Onwards,
Vineet
Vineet Chopra, MD, MsC
Professor of Medicine
Robert W. Schrier Chair of Medicine