VCU news

By Pamela DiSalvo Lepley
Division of University Relations

The Virginia Commonwealth University Pauley Heart Center today announced a national award for women physicians to honor the memory of Carolyn McCue, M.D., who in her day ventured where few men, and even fewer women, had gone before — into the practice of pediatric cardiology.

Dr. McCue's widower, Howard McCue, M.D., hopes her example as a national pioneer in the field, and the new award, will encourage other women to enter the field of cardiovascular medicine. 

"Carolyn was determined to have a career in cardiac medicine, and in the 1940s that was quite a challenge. But her passion and intellect saw her through and she left a legacy of 'firsts' in her field that form the groundwork of pediatric cardiology today," he said. "With the Carolyn McCue Award for Woman Cardiologist of the Year, we can honor her memory and perhaps inspire other young women to pursue careers in cardiology."

George W. Vetrovec, M.D., chair of the VCU School of Medicine's Division of Cardiology, couldn't agree more.

"About half of the students graduating from medical school today are women, yet women represent only a very small percentage of practicing adult cardiologists. It is imperative that we attract more women into the field," said Vetrovec. "We are faced with growing patient demand for women physicians, an increasing shortage of cardiologists, and an aging population that will require unprecedented cardiovascular care services."

The McCue Award is open to woman cardiologists, pediatric cardiologists or cardiac surgeons who are currently practicing in the United States. The award will be granted to a woman cardiologist who has made significant contributions to the field of cardiovascular medicine through exceptional clinical care, research or teaching and is recognized by her peers for her dedication, leadership and professionalism.

Dr. McCue practiced at the Medical College of Virginia, now the VCU Medical Center, for 42 years and was the first woman elected president of the Richmond Academy of Medicine. She created and chaired the school's Pediatric Cardiology Division for 20 years, during which she also was instrumental in establishing pediatric cardiology clinics in medically underserved communities throughout Virginia.

Presentation of the Dr. Carolyn McCue Award for Woman Cardiologist of the Year and a prize of $10,000 will be made at VCU Pauley Heart Center. The award is a program of the VCU Pauley Heart Center, made possible by a grant from the McCue Family.

Further information about the Dr. Carolyn McCue Award for Woman Cardiologist of the Year, including nomination requirements and forms, is available at www.heartaward.vcu.edu.