VUMC People

Joseph Magliocca, MD
June 17, 2025

Joseph Magliocca elected to transplantation network board

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

By Matt Batcheldor
June 12, 2025

From professional photographer to pediatric nurse, Mel Firebaugh is focused on bringing joy

“Being a photographer taught me to treasure the good memories and hold tight through the tough times. This is useful in nursing because there are a lot of tough times.”

By Jessica Pasley
June 11, 2025

Thorough and decisive in his work, kind and uplifting in the workplace: Ahmed Guhdija is the ‘embodiment of professionalism’ for the Department of Revenue and Reimbursement

“I am incredibly fortunate to work under such an exemplary director,” wrote one nominator. “Ahmed’s leadership style is both inspiring and effective. He possesses a remarkable amount of professionalism and can create a motivating work environment while providing constructive feedback.”

By Evan Dorian
Heather O’Dell, MSN, ANP-BC, MMHC. (photo by Donn Jones)
June 11, 2025

Heather O’Dell named Vanderbilt Transplant Center’s Executive Director and Associate Operating Officer

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.  

By John Howser
Sara Horst, MD, MPH
June 10, 2025

Sara Horst named Department of Medicine interim vice chair for Clinical Affairs

Horst succeeds Bryan Harris, MD, MPH, MMHC, current executive vice chair for Clinical Affairs, who has been named interim chair of Medicine.

By Bill Snyder
June 6, 2025

DAISY Award spotlight: ‘Her skill, empathy and joyful presence made an immeasurable difference to our family.’

Morgan D’Orso, BSN, RN, CPN, works in the Pediatric Acute Care unit at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. She is one of the latest Vanderbilt Health DAISY Award winners.

By Kylie Avery
June 5, 2025

David Shaffer leaves lasting legacy on Vanderbilt’s Kidney and Pancreas Transplant Program

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.
By Matt Batcheldor
June 3, 2025

VUMC icon Mildred Stahlman to figure in ‘monumental’ exhibit at Nashville’s Parthenon

A 6-foot-tall clay statue of Stahlman that, on a pedestal, will exhibit at about 9 feet tall will be among 24 “Monumental Figures” sculpted by Alan LeQuire that will be exhibited at the Parthenon June 13 to Sept. 21.
By Bill Snyder, Erin O. Smith and Brian Hallett
May 30, 2025

Wherever, whenever, Jim Kendall will be there.

“Jim courageously rises to the occasion at any moment to support his co-workers and lead them to success.”
By Diana Duren
May 30, 2025

Andreana Holowatyj named ‘40 Under 40 In Cancer’ winner

The awards initiative identifies and recognizes contributions across the field of cancer by rising stars and emerging leaders under the age of 40.
By Tom Wilemon
May 29, 2025

DAISY Award spotlight: ‘Because of him we are better parents.’

Jacob Pooser, RN, works in the Pediatric Intensive Care unit at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital. He is one of the latest Vanderbilt Health DAISY Award winners.
By Kylie Avery
May 29, 2025

Melissa Duff named chair of Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences

She is nationally recognized for her research to understand and improve long-term outcomes of individuals with acquired brain injury.
By John Howser
May 28, 2025

Ed Zavala, longtime administrator of the Vanderbilt Transplant Center, to retire

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. 
By Bill Snyder