In Memoriam: Diana A. Racusin, MD
Diana A. Racusin, MD, holder of the Berel Held, MD, Professorship in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, died Saturday, March 29, 2025, following a yearslong battle with cancer. She was 41.
Joining the McGovern Medical School faculty in 2016, she served as the division director of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the associate residency program director in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences.
A graduate of The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, she completed residency at Baylor College of Medicine, where she also completed a fellowship in maternal-fetal medicine, serving as the administrative chief fellow.
She was passionate about caring for high-risk pregnancies and training the next generation of physicians. Racusin received numerous accolades for both patient care and teaching, including recognition as a Top Doctor in Maternal-Fetal Medicine and several Dean’s Teaching Excellence Awards.
Her published research ranged from the effects of obesity and marijuana on pregnancy to the use of Twizzlers as an alternative to the glucola beverage used in gestational diabetes screening.
She served on several committees for McGovern Medical School, the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, and Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center. Additionally, she served as the assistant chief medical officer in OBGYN at Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center, further demonstrating her leadership and impact in the field.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Racusin was a devoted mother to her two boys and a loving wife to her husband, Michael. She cherished her family deeply and balanced her demanding career with a strong commitment to her loved ones. Her family was a constant source of support and inspiration throughout her life and work.
“We will miss Diana immensely and will honor her memory by continuing the work she dedicated her life to,” said Sean Blackwell, MD, chair of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences. “Her contributions have left a lasting impact on countless lives. Her unwavering commitment to her patients will inspire all those who follow in her footsteps.”