Mission and history
Our mission
The Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Pediatrics is committed to delivering comprehensive, compassionate, and leading-edge pediatric care, while advancing research and training the next generation of pediatric leaders at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU.
Residency program mission
Our residency program is dedicated to preparing physicians to become outstanding pediatricians who provide exceptional care for infants, children, and adolescents. The curriculum is designed to instill a commitment to compassionate care, active involvement in advocacy for children and families, meaningful service to the community, a foundation for lifelong learning, and a drive to advance the science of pediatric medicine. These principles are the cornerstone of what we believe makes a great pediatrician.
Fellowship mission
Our fellowship programs offer rigorous, specialized training in key areas of pediatric medicine and research. As part of a vibrant academic medical center, fellows benefit from hands-on experience, mentorship, and scholarly development. Graduates emerge as leaders in their fields, equipped to tackle complex health challenges, contribute to clinical innovation, and mentor future caregivers.
Our history
The Department of Pediatrics at VCU has long been a pioneer in pediatric care and education. In 1928, Lee J. Sutton Jr., Ph.D., became the first full-time professor of pediatrics at the Medical College of Virginia. Under his leadership, a philosophy of whole-child care emerged—one that emphasized not only physical health, but also the emotional and developmental well-being of every child.
In the decades that followed, the department expanded its reach and impact. The launch of adolescent medicine in 1973 highlighted our growing commitment to children across all stages of development. The 1980s, under Harold Maurer, Ph.D., brought major advances in pediatric subspecialties including neurology, infectious diseases, gastroenterology, psychiatry, and critical care.
A pediatric primary care residency track began in 1978, and in 1980, the Ronald McDonald House opened to support families receiving care with us. In 1982, pediatric inpatient services moved into a new Main Hospital space, and in 1985, VCU’s Board of Visitors established the Children's Medical Center to unify and expand pediatric services across disciplines. Our combined medicine/pediatrics residency, launched in 1988, continues to thrive as a highly respected training pathway.
CHoR at a glance: A place for every child
At Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, our patients come from across Virginia, the country, and even internationally. Whether they need a cast or cancer treatment, families turn to us for our broad expertise, compassionate approach, and unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for each child.
From common conditions to the most complex challenges, we provide care with a spirit of hope, innovation, and teamwork—always keeping families at the center. Because every child deserves the chance to grow, heal, and thrive.
Why choose CHoR?
Joining CHoR and VCU Health for your residency or fellowship is like joining a family. During your time here, we'll work together to ensure you receive hands-on, comprehensive experience in pediatrics - while finding work-life balance and making life-long friends and mentors.
Learn more about resident life, salary, benefits and the city we call home.
Our pediatric residency program
Our clinical team has the privilege of helping to train promising future pediatricians and specialists. Our educational programs are top-notch. In fact - our resident physicians have had a 100 percent pass rate on the pediatric boards in recent years.
Our pediatric fellowships
As part of a major metropolitan medical center, the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU's Pediatric Fellowship programs provide high-quality advanced training in specialty areas of pediatric research and practice.