Dear Colleagues,
It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Brian O’Sullivan, MD (D'75 DMS'79), Professor of Pediatrics and Section Chief for Pediatric Pulmonology, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 8.
Brian was a remarkable academic physician, educator, and colleague whose work and scholarship improved the lives of children with cystic fibrosis and other respiratory disorders. Since joining Dartmouth Health Children’s in 2014, after an already distinguished career at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, he brought extraordinary dedication to advancing pediatric research while always keeping the needs of patients and families at the center of his work.
In 2020, Brian became co-director of the New Hampshire Cystic Fibrosis Center at Dartmouth, and in September he stepped into the interim role of vice chair for research in the Department of Pediatrics. Over the course of his career, he earned national recognition for his scholarship and leadership in cystic fibrosis research. His work appeared in leading journals including The New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, and JAMA, helped shape national guidelines for cystic fibrosis care, and was supported through numerous NIH- and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation–funded studies.
Brian was a passionate educator, dedicated to the well-being and success of students. He was an active and engaged member of our Medical Education Committee, offering insightful perspective on the art of medicine and the responsibilities that we have as educators to create a robust and supportive educational program, while never forgetting the “why” in medicine and medical education. He also served as inaugural chair of Geisel’s Professional Standards and Conduct Board, a role he embraced with the same compassion and high standards that he brought to all of his work in education—truly seeing the student within the context of their educational experience, seeking the right path forward, while always upholding the high standards of the medical profession. Brian cared deeply about each student’s experience and approached challenging situations and discussions with compassion, care, and a holistic mindset.
Those who knew Brian will remember him not only for his clinical acumen, scholarship, and leadership, but also as a kind, compassionate, and gentle man, the measure of a pediatrician.
We will share opportunities to recognize, honor, and celebrate Brian’s life and career when arrangements are made.
With sympathy,
Keith J. Loud, MD, MSc
Chair of Pediatrics
Dartmouth Health Children’s Physician-in-Chief
Sonia Chimienti, MD
Dean of Educational Affairs
Geisel School of Medicine