LOUISVILLE, Ky. – For years, Eugene Shively, M.D., has trumpeted the value and need for general surgeons in rural communities. The two-time University of Louisville alumnus is doing his part to ensure this invaluable medical professional continues to be available to people who typically are underserved. He has stipulated that upon his death, UofL will receive $400,000 to fund a scholarship for a surgical resident who is committed to practicing surgery in a rural environment.
“Through this pledge I hope to help address two significant issues that face our health care system and the people of Kentucky,” said Shively, who received his bachelor’s degree from UofL in 1966 and his medical degree in 1970. “Future generations of physicians face an alarming cost to become doctors. I hope that these resources ease the hardship for people who plan to attack the issue of limited health care professionals in rural settings.
“For years I have explored the need for more general surgeons in rural communities. Family practitioners in this setting are so dependent on the general surgeon to do everything from basic surgical care to critical care and in some instances cesarean sections. Rural surgeons are indispensable in our health care system.”
“Dr. Shively’s generosity demonstrates the passion our graduates have to ensuring the University of Louisville continues to make Kentucky a better place to live,” said Dr. James R. Ramsey, president of the university. “His years of service as a surgeon in a rural community taught him about the extreme need we have in this state for more physicians in this environment.”
In 2010, UofL formally launched the Charting our Course comprehensive campaign. With an initial goal of $750 million, the university stretched that to $1 billion by the end of June 2014. Funds raised are designated for academic support, scholarships and programs for students; faculty recruitment, research and professional development; infrastructure enhancements and upkeep of athletic facilities; and support of the university’s academic units and libraries. To date, nearly 70,000 people and organizations have contributed more than $722 million so UofL can continue its journey to becoming a premiere metropolitan research university.