Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award: Brandi Karnes, MD
Brandi Karnes, MD, assistant professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award, presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation.
The Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award annually honors faculty who are exemplary in their compassion and sensitivity in the delivery of care to patients and their families, who administer scientifically excellent clinical care, and who serve as role models to students.
Karnes, the associate program director for the General Psychiatry Residency Program, said that when she found out she had won, she battled imposter syndrome in thinking that it had to be a mistake or that maybe she was the only faculty that applied.
“As a first-generation college student, and first generation in medicine, it’s easy to feel like I didn’t start with a roadmap for success in academic medicine,” Karnes said. “Thankfully during my training and as early faculty, I have learned from a variety of mentors who have helped me navigate my path. I remember in residency when a mentor predicted I was going to be a clinician educator before I even knew what that term meant. Winning the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award validates my efforts and emphasis on compassionate and humanistic care, not only for our patients but also for our trainees.”
Karnes said that she has many influential and inspirational people who have mentored and inspired her throughout her career but reflected on three at McGovern Medical School. She said that J. Chase Findley, MD, had a huge impact on her understanding of academia, while Amanda Helminiak, MD, showed her how to be an effective residency program leader, and Alia Warner, PhD, modeled how to support trainee and patient autonomy.
“Watching the expert guidance of my mentors led me to my current teaching philosophy based on supporting trainee autonomy and empowerment,” Karnes said. “I strive to push my trainees out of the comfort zone and into the learning zone. Even though I am there with a lifeline when they need it, my goal is to show them they are so much more powerful and capable than they may realize.”
Karnes thanked Findley for advocating for her and encouraging her to apply for the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award, as well as, Dr. Vineeth John and Dr. Jeff Woods.
“I would not have had the courage to apply for this prestigious award, and I certainly would not have been selected without their recommendation,” she said. “Also, I want to thank my partner, Dr. Paden Karnes, for supporting me throughout my career and educational interests.”
Previous winners of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award are: Erin Furr Stimming, MD, 2023; Nahid Rianon, MBBS, DrPH, 2022; Robby Wesley, DO, 2021 Jennifer Swails, MD, 2020; Milton “Chip” Routt, Jr., MD, 2019; Daniel J. Freet, MD, 2018; Michelle S. Barratt, MD, MPH, 2017; Francisco Fuentes, MD, 2016; Heinrich Taegtmeyer, MD, 2015; Joseph Love, DO, 2014; Joanne Oakes, MD, 2013; Stefano Sdringola-Maranga, MD, 2012; Saleem Khan, MD, 2011; Gus W. Krucke, MD, 2010; James “Red” Duke, MD, 2009; Pedro Mancias, MD, 2008; Keith Hoots, MD, 2006; Larry C. Gilstrap III, MD, 2005; Virginia A. Moyer, MD, MPH, 2004; Cheves M. Smythe, MD, 2003; Oscar Rosales, MD, 2002; Philip C. Johnson, MD, 2001; Philip R. Orlander, MD, 2000; and John R. Stroehlein, MD, 1999.