The inaugural Andrew Berchuck, MD, Gynecologic Oncology Endowed Lecture took place on Wednesday, May 31 in the Duke South Amphitheater and by Zoom, with approximately 150 in attendance (in person and virtually).
Daniel Clarke-Pearson, MD, former chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology in the Duke Department of Ob/Gyn, presented a historical and moving talk, with many anecdotes about the progress of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, titled "Reflections on Gynecologic Oncology at Duke: Lessons Learned." A historical overview of leadership in the field of gynecologic oncology over the past 50 years, and importantly, the great strides in innovative science and research, clinical work and mentorship by current division chief Dr. Berchuck, were highlighted.
The takeaway message, among many valuable ones that Dr. Clarke-Pearson noted for those in the field of gynecologic oncology: "Don't quit your day job"—
emphasizing that patient care and work to improve the lives of patients and their families is the benchmark for gynecologic oncologists.
Larry Maxwell, MD, professor of ob/gyn at the University of Virginia and the Uniformed Services University Schools of Medicine, and chair of Ob/Gyn and president of Women’s Services, Inova Health System, shared his perspectives, emphasizing that those with successful and often demanding careers as physician scientists and clinicians would not be where they are today without a robust support system of family, friends and colleagues. Dr. Maxwell was a fellow in gynecologic oncology at Duke from 1997-2000.
Pictured at top, with Dr. Berchuck, are Dr. Clarke-Pearson; Department Chair Dr. Matthew Barber; and Dr. Maxwell.