In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the STFM Foundation, three Foundation Past Presidents, Judy C. Washington, MD, Scott A. Fields, MD, MHA, and Julie Schirmer, LCSW, reflect on the Foundation’s lasting impact on innovation, diversity, and future leadership in academic family medicine. From scholarships that ignite a passion for teaching to seed grants that spark groundbreaking ideas, the programs and initiatives of the Foundation foster a strong, supportive community rooted in STFM’s values. And after five exciting decades, the STFM Foundation continues to build its legacy by shaping the next generation of family medicine educators. 

Hosted by Omari A. Hodge, MD, FAAFP and Jay-Sheree Allen Akambase, MD

Copyright © Society of Teachers of Family Medicine, 2025

Resources:

• STFM Foundation 50th Anniversary Celebration
• STFM Foundation Home Page
• Behavioral Science/Family Systems Educator Fellowship (BFEF)
• Leadership Through Scholarship Fellowship
• URM JAM Podcast

Guest Bios:

Judy C. Washington, MD, FAAFP

Dr Judy C. Washington is a respected leader in family medicine and women’s health, currently serving as Associate Chief Medical Officer at Atlantic Medical Group and Clinical Associate Professor at Sidney Kimmel Medical College. She earned her BS from the University of Montevallo and her MD from Meharry Medical College, completing her residency at Mountainside Family Practice. With a career spanning private practice, academia, and leadership, Dr Washington is a passionate advocate for health equity. Her research addresses workforce diversity, the “minority tax,” and institutional support for underrepresented faculty in medicine; these topics are of ongoing concern. She has established mentorship programs to support URiM professionals and enhance inclusive leadership.

At Atlantic Medical Group, she plays a pivotal role in initiatives such as the Women’s Health Work Group and the SDOH Steering Committees, concentrating on mitigating disparities and enhancing care outcomes. Her research also investigates equitable recruitment practices in medical education and the effects of systemic inequities on physicians of color. Dr Washington’s contributions are supported by grant-funded research, service on various boards, and numerous accolades, including the Union County Humanitarian Award. Her professional career exemplifies a profound dedication to promoting equity, mentoring emerging leaders, and cultivating inclusive healthcare environments.

Scott A. Fields, MD, MHA

Dr Scott Fields is former Vice Chair in the Department of Family Medicine at OHSU.  Scott currently serves as Professor Emeritus of Family Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where he has been faculty since 1986.  Prior to retiring, Scott served the same community of patients across multiple generations for over 30 years as a full-scope family physician, including inpatient and maternity care with C-section privileges.  Scott oversaw the clinical enterprise of the Department and was an active force in medical student education.

Scott has served in multiple roles in STFM, including STFM President and President of the STFM Foundation.  Scott facilitated a detailed update of the core clerkship curriculum and helped guide the expansion of many of the programs still in place at STFM and the Foundation.   

Scott also served as the Chief Medical O