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, his medical degree in 1970 and completed his general surgery residency at UofL in 1977. 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.

After completing his residency at UofL, Dr. Shively returned to Campbellsville and has worked as a general surgeon there for more than three decades. Dr. Shively has been an integral part of the Department of Surgery's mission to educate the next generation of surgeons. He regularly has medical students and residents on a rotation under his direction. He frequently drives to Louisville to help with student oral exams and attends major lectureships such as the annual Yandell-Polk Lectureship.