VCU news

The Heart Rhythm Society has honored Kenneth A. Ellenbogen, M.D., with its Distinguished Teacher Award, one of five recognition awards it bestows each year.

Ellenbogen is professor and chair of the Division of Cardiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, and director of clinical cardiac electrophysiology and pacing. He was nominated by his colleague of 15 years, Indiana University professor of medicine John M. Miller, M.D., who serves as director of clinical cardiac electrophysiology at Indiana University Health.

In his nomination, Miller wrote, “During [Dr. Ellenbogen’s] almost 30 years at [VCU], dozens of fellows have benefited directly from his instruction, but his influence is much wider; he is an internationally recognized leader in fellow education, participating in and chairing dozens of fellow training seminars. In addition, he is in the top echelon of highly sought speakers at national and international symposia for audiences of academic and practicing electrophysiologists.”

Miller also praised Ellenbogen’s style of presentation and his dedicated mentoring of trainees who have gone on to be influential investigators and educators in their own right.

Not only does Ken teach the art and science of cardiac electrophysiology, but he teaches the character traits needed to be a great physician. He teaches by the example of how he lives his life and how he cares for his patients.

Ellenbogen has held the Hermes A. Kontos, M.D., Professorship in Cardiology since 2000. He has served the Heart Rhythm Society on its board of trustees and as course director of its board review course. He also has served as director of the cardiology advisory board for the VA medical system.

Ellenbogen earned his medical degree at Johns Hopkins University and continued his training in cardiology and electrophysiology at Duke University.

At Duke, he trained with G. Neal Kay, M.D., professor emeritus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Ellenbogen is a co-author with Kay and others on “Clinical Cardiac Pacing, Defibrillation and Resynchronization Therapy,” a go-to resource for those in the field with technical question about implantable devices.

Kay presented Ellenbogen with the teaching award in May at Heart Rhythm 2015, the society’s 36th Annual Scientific Sessions, held in Boston.

Kay wrote of his colleague and friend, “Not only does Ken teach the art and science of cardiac electrophysiology, but he teaches the character traits needed to be a great physician. He teaches by the example of how he lives his life and how he cares for his patients. He teaches how all human beings are to be respected and he teaches the unique dignity and value of every human life. The very many fellows who have been fortunate enough to train under the mentorship of Dr. Ellenbogen have learned far more than just electrophysiology; they have learned what it means to be a person of true integrity, compassion and honesty.”

 

Featured image up top : Kenneth A. Ellenbogen, M.D.