The OPTN is a unique public-private partnership that links all professionals involved in the U.S. donation and transplantation system.

O’Dell succeeds Edward Zavala, MBA, the VTC’s founding administrator who is stepping down from his administrative leadership role June 30 after more than 22 years of service to VUMC.  

The chain is a system where a series of incompatible living donor-recipient pairs are connected, allowing recipients to receive a compatible kidney from an altruistic donor.

As a world leader in advanced cardiac care and organ transplantation, VUMC is committed to raising awareness and educating the public about the lifesaving impact of organ donation.

Shaffer led the kidney transplant program to become one of the largest in the nation and made significant contributions to clinical care, research, teaching and service.

Zavala was the first to receive the Leader in Transplant Administration Award from the OPTN/UNOS Transplant Administrators Committee for his significant contributions to and positive impact on the field. 

The team used an Impella, a catheter-based miniature ventricular assist device. It offered the best chance of getting rising eighth-grader Van Sung to transplant.