Claude D. Brunson, MD Anesthesiology Fund

Published on Monday, June 10, 2024

Dr. Claude D. Brunson, former chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, is being honored for his legacy of achievements through the establishment of the Claude D. Brunson, MD Anesthesiology Fund. 

“Dr. Brunson created not only a lasting impact on UMMC but elevated the field of anesthesiology nationally.  It is only fitting that the first endowed fund for our department bear his name.” says Dr. Harendra Arora, chair of anesthesiology, who helped to spearhead the fund. “We know that the ability to support departmental work in perpetuity is a key driver in recruiting and retaining top talent. It is exciting for us to see the outpouring of support for Dr. Brunson and we intend to continue to build on the foundation he helped to create.” 

At a recent department dinner, UMMC anesthesiology faculty learned of this initiative and heard from Brunson, who has personally contributed to the fund. At the event, he said: “The University of Mississippi Medical Center means so much to me and our state, and I am grateful to support the institution that has given me so much. I am deeply honored to know I will be a part of the Department of Anesthesiology forever and the impact the fund will have on patients, faculty, staff, residents and fellows.”

Dr. Frank Bonvillain, who worked with Brunson at the Medical Center said, “There is no better way to honor Dr. Brunson, a true pioneer of the Department of Anesthesiology and the University of Mississippi Medical Center.”

When support reaches $1 million, the fund will become The Claude D. Brunson, MD Chair in Anesthesiology, making this the first chair position for the Department of Anesthesiology. 

Drs. Sara Martin and Hess Robertson have also decided to support the fund.

“Hess and I have had the honor of being on faculty in the department since 2016, and we both truly believe in the mission and vision of the anesthesiology department,” Robertson said. “We love UMMC and want to see our patients continue to receive the best care possible.  I cannot think of a better person to name this endowment after as Dr. Brunson has done so much for our department, our state, and the specialty of anesthesiology.  It’s a privilege to now be able to give back”.

Since he began practicing anesthesiology in 1991, Brunson’s notable highlights at UMMC include serving as department chair, faculty member for three decades and senior advisor to the vice chancellor. He was the first African American chief of the medical staff, the first African American administrator of perioperative services and the first African American to lead a medical school department. He was the second African American accepted to a residency in anesthesiology at UMMC. As the current executive director of the Mississippi State Medical Association, he was a visible health care leader during the COVID-19 pandemic. He led an overhaul of regulations for prescription opioid drugs in Mississippi and continues to champion state health initiatives.

To honor Brunson, contact Suzanne Crell, director of development – hospitals, at screll@umc.edu or 601-815-8778. Tax-deductible gifts may be made through one-time contributions, multi-year commitments through payroll deduction or planned giving opportunities including IRA distributions and estate gifts.