Michael A. Thomas, MD, and Megan Kessler, MD, who both attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in the early 1990s, have announced on May 12 their continued support for their alma mater through an estate gift. Thomas is currently a professor and chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the university, while Kessler practices at For Women, Inc within TriHealth.
The couple said they are grateful for the training they received at UC and want to give back to future medical professionals. They have created the Obstetrics and Gynecology Resident and Fellow Education Endowment Fund with a bequest in their estate. This fund is intended to support OB-GYN residents and subspecialty fellows at UC indefinitely. Their total contributions to date exceed $160,000.
“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to practice medicine,” Kessler said. “It all started with my superior medical training as a medical student and resident at UC.” Thomas added: “We believe it’s important to have educational funds available for residents, to allow trainees to come up with innovative research projects or support their educational ventures.” He also said: “Giving to the university pays dividends in the long term. We give so that the people beyond our time here can hopefully have the same advantages we’ve had. It’s important to leave something behind.”
Emily Hurley, MD, adjunct assistant professor in obstetrics and gynecology at UC College of Medicine, credited Thomas’s mentorship as instrumental throughout her career path from student through residency and fellowship into her current faculty role. “The support I’ve felt from Dr. Thomas has been consistent throughout my training,” Hurley said.
Thomas was named chair of his department by UC Health in 2020—the first African American clinical chair at College of Medicine—and also serves on its Board of Directors.
“My wife and I are very dedicated to the University of Cincinnati,” Thomas said about his philanthropic involvement as both leader and donor.
