Thank a Resident Day: Celebrating ULSOM residents and their impact on the community

Posted on February 26, 2025

Each year, Thank a Resident Day shines a spotlight on the dedicated residents who choose to spend a significant part of their medical journey at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.  This annual celebration not only acknowledges their hard work and contributions to the community’s health but also recognizes their compassion and influence.

Jeffrey Bumpous, dean of the School of Medicine, expressed gratitude stating, “Whether a current or former resident, each resident leaves an undeniable mark on the community. Their dedication and expertise are essential to the high-quality care provided by our clinical partners, ensuring that patients across Louisville receive the best possible treatment. Without their tireless efforts, our healthcare system would not be able to meet the growing demands of our community. We are immensely proud of our residents for their unwavering commitment and contributions.”

Grant Gellert, M.D., a current resident in the department of Emergency Medicine, exemplifies this dedication. Starting his journey as a medical student at ULSOM, Dr. Gellert, has embraced opportunities to engage with global health initiatives including emergency medicine training in Lithuania.

“I’m grateful for the support of my amazing attendings; they’ve allowed me to gain valuable insights into emergency medicine practices globally,” noted Dr. Gellert. “Whether here in Louisville or abroad, being a resident comes with a lot of hours and long shifts, but it is also very rewarding. Thank a Resident Day is an appreciated validation of the hard work that my colleagues and I put into caring for our patients every day.”

Across all specialties, ULSOM residents provide essential care in hospitals and clinics throughout the region. Their expertise not only supports patients directly but also strengthens the training environment for future residents.

“It is stories like Dr. Gellert’s that remind us of the incredible impact that residency can have on a physician,” said Murali Ankem, M.D., vice dean of Graduate Medical Education. “Our residents are the backbone of hospital and clinical care, providing essential services that improve patient outcomes. Their dedication to learning, teaching, and serving the community ensure that the next generation of physicians is well-prepared to meet the evolving healthcare challenges. We are incredibly thankful for their contributions.”

To celebrate our 800+ residents on Thank a Resident Day, ULSOM will host breakfast and lunch events at partner hospitals, conduct raffles, and share resident highlights on GME social media platforms. Beyond Thank a Resident Day, ULSOM remains committed to supporting our residents through initiatives like the Office of the Ombuds, the House Staff Council, and a number of immersive events.

As ULSOM residents continue to shape the future of medicine, the school takes pride in its role of training and mentoring the next generation of physicians. On Thank a Resident Day and every day, ULSOM extends heartfelt appreciation to its residents. Join us in thanking our residents today!