Passing of Saundra Curry, MD

Dear Colleagues,

We are saddened to announce the passing of Saundra Curry, MD, professor of anesthesiology at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Curry joined the faculty at Columbia University in 1986 as an instructor in anesthesiology, and in 2003 she was one of the first women to be promoted to the rank of professor based on educational scholarship.

Dr. Curry was dedicated to advancing medical student education, most recently serving as advisory dean to our medical students from 2005 to 2008. As director of medical student education for the Department of Anesthesiology for more than 30 years, Dr. Curry instructed generations of medical students in anesthesiology and perioperative medicine, led the early adoption of case-based learning as a teaching approach, and engaged with learners to promote critical reflection.

Dr. Curry’s innovative practice and personalized approach were recognized by her students and peers. She received the Outstanding Faculty of the Year Award from the Black and Latino Student Organization on five occasions and was awarded the Outstanding Woman Doctor of the Year Award from the VP&S Alumni Association.

Throughout her career, Dr. Curry was steadfast in promoting scholarship and faculty development in service of the education mission within our institution and nationally. As president of the Society for Education in Anesthesiology, she helped pioneer the development of the innovative teaching workshop offered to faculty members in academic programs. She contributed to multiple committees within the American Society of Anesthesiologists, including those focused on professional diversity, wellness, ethics, and academic anesthesia. She also served as a senior oral board examiner at the American Board of Anesthesiology and as an USMLE exam writer for the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Curry was a generous and humane anesthesiologist, teacher, and mentor. She contributed to the professional development of hundreds of physicians, many of whom are exemplary members of the VP&S community to this day. We are profoundly grateful that she shared her extraordinary career with us.

We extend our condolences to Dr. Curry’s family, her husband Donald, son Peter, and sister Karen, and we honor her legacy of scholarship and clinical excellence.

The Department of Anesthesiology will plan a celebration of her life and will share details at a later date.

Sincerely,

James McKiernan, MD
Interim Dean, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
CEO of ColumbiaDoctors
John K. Lattimer Professor of Urology

Tricia Brentjens, MD
Interim Chair, Department of Anesthesiology
Professor of Anesthesiology at CUMC