Cardiology fellowship recognized for diversity efforts

The Cardiology Fellowship program at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University is the recipient of the 2016 Spirit of the Heart Diversity in Cardiology Award from the Association of Black Cardiologists.

Dr. Vincent Robinson, director of the program and Glen E. Garrison, MD, Distinguished Chair in Cardiovascular Medicine, accepted the award at the annual Spirit of the Heart Awards Dinner in New York Oct. 1.

The award was established in 2002 to recognize academic institutions and teaching hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to increasing the number of African-Americans and other underrepresented minorities trained in cardiovascular medicine. It also honors commitment to diversity and cultural enrichment in medical education.

“(This) is a testament to your excellent leadership and successful efforts to recruit quality candidates in support of the needs of communities as well as MCG’s diversity and inclusion priorities,” wrote Dr. Barbara Hutchinson, president of ABC, and Dr. Felix Sogade, chairman of the board, in a letter notifying Robinson of the award.

Robinson calls the award a tremendous recognition for an ongoing and concerted effort to increase the quality and diversity of applicants. Many graduates of the three-year fellowship have pursued further training and assumed leadership roles at programs across the country, which was a key factor in even being considered for this award, he said. “In my 22 years here, we have not had a graduate who has not gotten into their desired program after leaving this program.”