Holly J. Humphrey, a prominent figure in medical education, passed away on April 17 at 68. Humphrey served as dean for medical education at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine for 15 years, where she was recognized as a leader and innovator in her field.
During her time at Pritzker, which she graduated from in 1983, Humphrey played a key role in transforming the school into one of the nation’s top medical education institutions. Her contributions to the diversification of the medical field are notable, and her legacy continues to influence learners at the University of Chicago and beyond.
Kenneth S. Polonsky, former dean of the biological sciences division and the Pritzker school, described Humphrey’s commitment to offering quality medical care, particularly to vulnerable communities. He stated, “The common threads through all of Dr. Holly Humphrey’s roles at the University of Chicago were her exceptional skill and compassion as a gifted clinician, her unusual ability to connect with, inspire and serve as a role model for students and learners at varying levels of their training and her unwavering commitment to providing access to medical care of the highest quality to all, particularly the most vulnerable.”
Additionally, Vineet Arora, current Dean for Medical Education at Pritzker and former mentee of Humphrey, noted her lasting impact on medical education and the culture of the institution, saying, “It is rare a day passes that I don’t see the profound impact Holly had on medical education nationwide and, especially, on the culture at the Pritzker School of Medicine.”
Aside from her tenure as dean, Humphrey co-founded notable programs including the Bowman Society and Pritzker’s Identity and Inclusion Steering Committee, each aimed at promoting inclusive and supportive educational environments. Her legacy includes the initiation of the summer pathway programs to extend opportunities in medical and STEM education to diverse students.
In 2018, Humphrey transitioned from her role at Pritzker to become the president of the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation. Her national leadership included roles such as chair of the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine’s board of directors and president of the Association of Program Directors in Internal Medicine.
Humphrey is survived by her husband Duane Follman and their children, alongside other family members. A memorial service is planned for May 2 at Christ Church in Oak Brook, Illinois, with a future service at the University of Chicago.
Memorial contributions are requested for student scholarships at either the UChicago Pritzker School of Medicine or North Central College in lieu of flowers.