June 14, 2012

Newton honored as UTMB Ashbel Smith distinguished alumni

Mark Newton, M.D.

Newton honored as UTMB Ashbel Smith distinguished alumni

Mark Newton, M.D., associate professor of Clinical Anesthesiology at Vanderbilt and a pediatric anesthesiologist at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, was one of five University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston alumni who recently received the Ashbel Smith Distinguished Alumnus Award.

Mark Newton, M.D.

Mark Newton, M.D.

Newton, who received his medical degree from UTMB in 1987, was instrumental in founding, and serves as director of, the Vanderbilt International Anesthesia (VIA) program, a global service, education and research initiative focused on anesthesia and ICU issues in low-income countries.

Newton’s interest in international medical work began while he was a student at UTMB, and has continued throughout his career. His humanitarian efforts were recognized by the American Medical Association in 2012 with the Dr. Nathan Davis Award in Medicine, named for the AMA’s founder and presented to physicians whose influence reaches the international patient population and changes the future of their medical care.

The Ashbel Smith Distinguished Alumnus Award — the highest honor bestowed by the UTMB School of Medicine Alumni Association — recognizes outstanding service to the medical profession and to humanity. It honors the memory of Ashbel Smith, M.D., a prominent figure in Texas medicine, politics and education.

Newton was honored on June 2 at the UTMB School of Medicine class of 2012 commencement ceremony.