For Andrew Ray, CA-2 anesthesiology resident at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, the journey to medicine began in an unexpected place: EPCOT. A childhood trip sparked his fascination with science, inspiring a lifelong pursuit of discovery, service and community.  

“Growing up in Louisville, my parents nurtured my curiosity and commitment to service,” Ray said. “Staying here for medical school and residency has allowed me to remain grounded in the city that raised me. From the start, I knew I wanted to give back to this community.” 

His commitment soon expanded beyond the hospital walls. Encouraged by mentors, Ray became active in the Kentucky Medical Association (KMA), where he quickly recognized the importance of resident and student voices in advocacy. “Early on, I saw fellow trainees grappling with debt, mental health pressures and shifting health care policies,” Ray said. “I realized we needed a seat at the decision-making table.” 

Now serving on the KMA Board, Ray uses his platform to advocate for education funding, physician wellness and patient-centered policies. He describes the experience as both humbling and energizing. “I am grateful for KMA’s willingness to empower new voices – including mine – to help chart the future of Kentucky medicine.” 

Ray’s journey has been guided by many mentors who introduced him to advocacy and continue to provide encouragement and support as he continues to navigate the complexities of advocacy and clinical training. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to learn from generous mentors and colleagues,” he said. “They’ve modeled humility, service and lifelong learning in ways I strive to emulate.” 

For Ray, leadership in medicine has reinforced a lesson he also lives daily in anesthesiology: progress is never a solo achievement. “Every success in medicine, whether in the operating room or drafting policy, is the product of diverse talents working toward a common goal,” he said. “Trust, open communication and recognition of each team member’s strengths are what allow us to innovate and overcome challenges.” 

Practicing gratitude is one of Ray’s guiding principles, especially in the demanding field of anesthesiology. He finds joy in small moments: the patient who gently emerges with little pain, landing a challenging arterial line in a big trauma case alongside his peers or celebrating how far they’ve have come in residency together. “I try every day to express gratitude – to my patients for their bravery and to my colleagues for their dedication,” he said. “These intentional moments help me savor the privilege of this work.” 

When looking ahead, Ray hopes to carry these lessons of gratitude, collaboration and advocacy into his career as an anesthesiologist. His vision is one rooted in empathy, innovation and service. “Anesthesiology is about trust and adaptability,” he said. “My leadership experiences have shown me the importance of elevating others’ voices and shaping a future where every patient feels seen, and every provider finds meaning in their practice.” 

To the next generation of physicians, Ray offers this advice: “Believe your voice matters. Engage early, seek mentors and advocate for change. Medicine evolves, but values like compassion, service and excellence endure. The future of medicine belongs to those willing to lead, listen and collaborate.” 

As Louisville continues to shape him, Ray remains grateful for the city, the mentors who guide him and the medical community that surrounds him. “Medicine is a collective endeavor,” he said. “It’s through collaboration and gratitude that we can make the greatest impact.”