Harvard's Dr. Jane Newburger Honored with Prestigious Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award

The American Heart Association (AHA) has announced that Dr. Jane W. Newburger, a distinguished professor at Harvard Medical School and associate chair for academic affairs in the department of cardiology at Boston Children's Hospital, will be awarded the 2024 Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award. This prestigious recognition, to be presented at the AHA's Scientific Sessions 2024 in Chicago, underscores Dr. Newburger's significant contributions to the field of pediatric cardiology and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of medical professionals.

The Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award is an annual honor bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated a long-term commitment to teaching and mentoring future faculty researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals. Dr. Newburger's selection for this award reflects her 45-year tenure at Harvard Medical School, during which she has guided and inspired countless trainees and early career faculty members.

Throughout her career, Dr. Newburger has been the primary research mentor for nearly 60 mentees, many of whom have gone on to achieve leadership positions in academia both nationally and internationally. Her mentorship extends beyond the classroom and laboratory, as she has directed a large T32 program for over three decades and supported numerous fellows and junior faculty in securing prestigious grants and awards.

Dr. Newburger's impact on the field of pediatric cardiology is particularly noteworthy. As an international authority on Kawasaki disease, a condition that can cause serious damage to the heart and blood vessels in young children, her research has significantly influenced guidelines and clinical practice. Her expertise proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic when she played a crucial role in researching and communicating about multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but serious condition associated with COVID-19 infection in children.

The importance of Dr. Newburger's work extends beyond her direct mentees to the broader medical community and, ultimately, to patients. Her research on neurological and developmental outcomes in children with congenital heart disease has led to improvements in surgical techniques and post-operative care. By characterizing the developmental profiles of adolescents after complex congenital heart disease repair and studying genomic predictors of development, Dr. Newburger has contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of long-term outcomes for these patients.

Dr. Keith Churchwell, the AHA's 2024-2025 volunteer president, emphasized the lasting impact of Dr. Newburger's dedication to training the next generation of clinicians. This recognition not only celebrates Dr. Newburger's personal achievements but also highlights the critical role of mentorship in advancing medical science and improving patient care.

The award also serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering a culture of mentorship within the medical community. As healthcare faces increasingly complex challenges, the guidance and support provided by experienced mentors like Dr. Newburger are essential in preparing future generations of medical professionals to meet these challenges head-on.

Dr. Newburger's extensive publication record, with over 600 peer-reviewed articles, chapters, and statements, further demonstrates her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. Her previous recognitions, including the AHA's Clinical Research Prize and Distinguished Scientist designation, underscore the breadth and depth of her contributions to cardiovascular medicine.

As the medical community continues to navigate the complexities of pediatric cardiology and the broader field of cardiovascular health, the recognition of mentors like Dr. Newburger serves as an inspiration. It reinforces the value of experience, dedication, and the nurturing of talent in shaping the future of medical care and research. The Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award not only honors Dr. Newburger's individual achievements but also celebrates the enduring impact of mentorship in medicine, ensuring that the torch of knowledge and compassion is passed on to future generations of healthcare professionals.