News University Medical Center Brackenridge Resident Named Thayer Award Recipient

AUSTIN, TX - (October 5, 2009) - Seton Family of Hospitals has announced Dr. Ariel Holley, a fourth year resident at University Medical Center Brackenridge, has been selected for the Thayer Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The Thayer Award is given on behalf of the John P. McGovern Academy and the 2009 Osler Student Scholars to a resident or fellow who demonstrates sound scientific knowledge, compassion towards patients, and dedication to learning and teaching.

Holley joined Seton Family of Hospitals in 2006 as a resident in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is currently the Co-Chief Resident of the OB Department at University Medical Center Brackenridge. Holley, a native of Salt Lake City, Utah, attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond, Virginia. She credits her families' influence as the reason for her recognition.

"I believe that my family is responsible for my love of education. My parents taught me that learning procures knowledge, but also provides one with a sense of accomplishment," said Dr. Ariel Holley, OB-GYN resident. "They never placed unfair pressure me to obtain high marks in school. Rather, they encouraged and assisted me with my studies. I still have the utmost respect for my parents and live to make them proud."

Dr. Charles Brown, Vice Chair and AMEP Program Director at University Medical Center Brackenridge, says that "there are two things that stand out to me about Ariel Holley. We are a relatively new residency program, but from the beginning Ariel has been a charter participant by consistently demonstrating a desire for learning and sharing that knowledge. At her initiative, she pioneered a Chief Resident position that is responsible for coordinating the education of the medical students along with the residents' own education. Second, Ariel always comports herself in the highest professional manner, cares for her patients and loves what she is doing."

The Thayer award is in honor of Dr. William S. Thayer who practiced at Johns Hopkins Hospital and became Dr. William Osler's first resident. Thayer joined the faculty of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 1896 as an associate professor

of medicine and served as head of the Johns Hopkins Hospital medical clinic from 1898 until 1905, when be became professor of clinical medicine. Thayer's research interests included a number of infectious and cardiovascular diseases, especially bacterial endocarditis. His academic contributions include organizing the first course in clinical microscopy for the medical school.

Every other month, up to 2 residents/fellows are chosen by the Osler Student Scholars. Holley was honored on September 29 at the Osler Club meeting in Galveston.