It is with great enthusiasm that we announce the appointment of Karen Hendricks-Muñoz, MD, MPH to be physician-in-chief of Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at VCU School of Medicine. Dr. Hendricks-Muñoz has been serving in this role in an interim capacity since October 31, 2024, in addition to fulfilling her roles as the William Tate Graham Endowed Chair in Neonatal Medicine, professor of Pediatrics and program director of the neonatal medicine fellowship training program.

Dr. Hendricks-Muñoz excelled in multiple areas throughout a very competitive national search process, particularly in her vision for children’s health and relentless pursuit of excellence in quality and safety. Her leadership and steady hand during this transition further demonstrated her dedication and passion for our mission and people. Dr. Hendricks-Muñoz will ensure CHoR and the Department of Pediatrics continue to be successful, welcoming and thriving places to care for our patients, families and each other.

Dr. Hendricks-Muñoz came to CHoR in 2012 as an expert clinician and national leader in neonatal medicine, pediatric research and education. When she began her interim role a year ago, she noted that her vision was “to carry on work to recruit, retain and educate physicians and health leaders, as well as expand and add key service programs to advance momentum in children’s health care in Virginia.”

She has done that and more as our people, programs and places continue to grow and earn accolades, including the upcoming expansion of our Level 4 NICU into the Children’s Tower and recent recognition by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Children’s Hospital in eight pediatric specialties.

Please join us in supporting and congratulating Dr. Hendricks-Muñoz, whom we are excited to have in this role!