Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center Renamed to Honor Pioneering Surgeon Levi Watkins Jr.

Johns Hopkins University and Medicine honored the legacy of Levi Watkins Jr., a groundbreaking cardiac surgeon and the institution's first Black chief resident and full professor, by renaming the Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center in his honor.

The rededication ceremony took place on the evening of June 8, drawing over 150 attendees to celebrate Watkins' contributions to medicine and education. Known for his pioneering work in cardiac surgery, Watkins is also remembered for his commitment to mentoring and recruiting underrepresented minorities in the medical field.

This renaming is part of the Diverse Names and Narratives Project, which aims to recognize and celebrate influential figures from Johns Hopkins' history, particularly those from historically marginalized groups.

Watkins began his career at Johns Hopkins Medicine in 1970 as a surgical intern. He later became the first Black chief resident in cardiac surgery and made medical history in 1980 by performing the world's first implantation of an automatic heart defibrillator in a human, a procedure that has since saved countless lives.

As an associate dean at the School of Medicine, Watkins established the nation's first postdoctoral association and actively worked to promote diversity and fairness within the institution. He initiated the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration in 1982, which honors community service and attracts notable speakers.

During the ceremony, JHU President Ron Daniels highlighted Watkins' dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for Black students and faculty at Hopkins. He noted that Watkins' efforts not only improved the institution for future generations but also made it a more welcoming place for all.

Family members, colleagues, and friends attended the event, including Watkins' sister, Annie Marie Garraway, and his nephew, Levi A. Garraway. Damani Piggott, an associate vice provost, recounted his own experience with Watkins' outreach efforts, emphasizing the personal touch he brought to inspiring future medical students.

Reported by HarborBeat based on Johns Hopkins University (source).