VUMC Radiology congratulates Marques Bradshaw, MD, MSCR, Associate Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences and Vice Chair of Diversity Affairs for radiology, after being named a winner of the 2022 Levi Watkins, Jr. MD Award. The prestigious accolade is presented by Vanderbilt University’s School of Medicine in collaboration with VU’s Office of Diversity Affairs.
Dr. Bradshaw was recognized for his work championing inclusivity in health care, with the award highlighting his mentorship for underrepresented students, residents and faculty as well as his leadership initiatives in Health Equity and Diversity and Inclusion.
“Anytime you are recognized with an award that aligns with your passion, it’s a truly special moment,” Dr. Bradshaw says. “Levi Watkins, Jr. MD is a historic figure at Vanderbilt, and I proudly stand on the shoulders of his greatness as I do my part to make VUMC a better place.”
The award, named in honor of the first African American student to graduate from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, serves to recognize Vanderbilt students, faculty, and staff in the organization who have made contributions towards diversity and inclusion in health care.
“Congratulations to Dr. Bradshaw for receiving the prestigious Levi Watkins Jr. MD Award for commitment to Diversity at Vanderbilt,” says Reed Omary, MD, MS, Carol D. and Henry P. Pendergrass Chair and Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences. “We are thrilled and this award is so richly deserved.”
Consuelo Wilkins, MD, MSCI, left, and Kimberly Vinson, MD, MSCR, right, pose with Levi Watkins Jr., MD Award winners Marques Bradshaw, MD, second from left, Brandon Esianor, MD, Andrea Davis, MD, and Ekiomoado Olumese. (photo by Erin O. Smith)
Along with his mentorship work, Dr. Bradshaw has been instrumental in spearheading the department’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Week, which held its second-annual weeklong event in September. During last year’s inaugural DEI Week, the team announced the creation of a $1 million endowment to support these efforts.
Dr. Bradshaw is also proud of quantifiable accomplishments in diversifying our own residency program. Through grassroots recruitment efforts—both at Meharry Medical College and Vanderbilt University School of Medicine—VUMC Radiology has continued to grow a diverse and brilliant pool of health care leaders.
