Ramya Krishna Velagapudi, MD
Specialties: General Pathology, Surgical Pathology, Pulmonary Pathology
Gender: Female
Biography: Born and raised in India, with initial dream to be a mathematician, a pivotal experience during her battle with Malaria shifted Dr. Velagapudi's passion toward science and the human body. Working diligently throughout high school, she earned scholarships and eventually became the first doctor in her extended family.
Dr. Velagapudi's eagerness to explore and serve led her to medical school, where she had the privilege of working with a remarkable husband-and-wife duo—both professors—who shared their passion for pathology. Their dedication and teachings inspired her to delve deeper into this field, where she fell in love with the intricate roots of pathology. After completing medical school, she followed in her professors’ footsteps and embarked on a journey to the United States. During her residency at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, she discovered her fascination with Renal Pathology and how collaborating with transplant surgeons and nephrologists allowed her to contribute to a diverse clinical team.
Seeking further expertise, she pursued a fellowship in Renal Pathology under the guidance of the renowned Dr. Agnes Fogo at Vanderbilt University, whose mentorship and expertise enriched her understanding of kidney diseases and fueled her passion for teaching.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Velagapudi finds joy in cooking, quilling, and exploring nature with her 2 children. Balancing work and personal interests keep her inspired and fulfilled.
Dr. Velagapudi's primary areas of expertise encompass Renal pathology, Thoracic Pathology, and Genitourinary Pathology, with additional responsibilities as the Director of Electron Microscopy Services at UMMC. Dr. Velagapudi remains committed to the education of pathology residents, Residents and fellows in various internal medicine subspecialties and medical students, actively engaging in teaching endeavors within the institution.
My Approach to Healthcare
My approach to healthcare is rooted in the principles of doing no harm, compassion, and service. I believe that every decision I make should prioritize patient safety and be guided by evidence, and a commitment to minimizing harm. I strive to provide care that is not only accurate, but also thoughtful and patient-centered.
Compassion is central to how I practice medicine and as a Pathologist it takes a different form. I always remember the human story behind every slide and understanding the anxiety and uncertainty that patients and their families may be experiencing. I strive to honor that trust by approaching each case with diligence, attention to detail, and a sense of responsibility. Compassion also extends to collaboration with clinicians and other members of the healthcare team, recognizing that clear communication and mutual respect are essential to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
I also view medicine as a calling of service. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to serve patients, colleagues, trainees, and the broader community. For me, service extends beyond direct patient care to include education, mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy. I strive to uphold the values of humility, integrity, and professionalism, always placing the needs of those I serve at the center of my work.
Education
| Board Certification: | Anatomic Pathology and Clinical Pathology |
Experience
Current Positions
| Director, School of Medicine, UMMC- Department of Pathology, Madison, MS 39110 | 01/2026 - Present |
| Director, School of Medicine, UMMC- Department of Pathology, Madison, MS 39110 | 01/2026 - Present |
| Associate Member, School of Medicine, Cancer Center and Research Institute- UMMC, Jackson, MS 39216 | 06/2025 - Present |
| Division Director, School of Medicine, UMMC, Jackson, MS 39216 | 11/2023 - Present |
| Assistant Professor, School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, 2500 North State Street, MS 39216 | 09/2023 - Present |
Specialty Certification Licensure
| Licensure, Ohio Medical License, Ohio State Medical Board | |
| Licensure, Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure | 05/2023 - 06/2027 |
| Certification, Anatomic and Clinical Pathology, American Board of Pathology | 05/2021 - Present |
Honors, Awards, and Recognition
| GWIMS Early career award Nominee, GWIMS- UMMC | 2026 |
| Fellow, American Society of Nephrology | 2026 |
| Alpha Omega Alpha- Inductee, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society | 2026 |
| GWIMS, Early Career Faculty Award- Nominee, University of Mississippi Medical Center | 2025 |
| Trailblazer Award for Excellence in Medical Student Education, University of Mississippi Medical Center | 2024 |
| Anatomic Pathology- Faculty of the year, University of Mississippi Medical Center- Department of Pathology | 2024 |
| Best abstract award for pathologist-in-training, United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology | 2022 |
| Fellow, College of American Pathologists | 2021 |
| QI Symposium- First place- Quality Improvement Project of the year, University of Cincinnati Medical Center | 2020 |
| Resident of the year, University of Cincinnati Medical Center | 2020 |
| ASCP Foundation Resident Travel grant, American society of Clinical Pathology | 2019 |
| Resident Travel Award, Ohio Society of Pathologists | 2018 |