Congratulations to Dr. Ian Butler – Awardee for Excellence in Clinical Service
Recipients of the 2020 President’s Scholar Awards are (from left to right): Eugene C. Toy, MD; Alanna C. Morrison, PhD; Andrew Casas; Joy M. Schmitz, PhD; and Ian J. Butler, MD. (Graphic by Andrea Rodriguez/UTHealth Houston)
Original story by Faith Harper, UTHealth news, October 8, 2021
Faculty members who demonstrate a longstanding excellence in the areas of teaching, research, and clinical care have received the top honor awarded by UTHealth President Giuseppe N. Colasurdo, MD, Alkek-Williams Distinguished Chair.
This year, the president also issued a special award to recognize overall exemplary dedication and service to UTHealth Houston.
Recipients of the 2020 President’s Scholar Awards:
- Research: Alanna C. Morrison, PhD, and Joy M. Schmitz, PhD
- Teaching: Eugene C. Toy, MD
- Clinical Service: Ian J. Butler, MD
- President’s Recognition of Excellence: Andrew Casas
2020 President’s Scholar Award for Excellence in Clinical Service
Ian J. Butler, MD
Professor, Department of Pediatrics
Jacobo Geissler Distinguished Chair in West Syndrome Research
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
“Without a doubt, Dr. Butler is a President’s Scholar. The challenge was whether to honor him for his work in the clinical setting, the classroom, or the research lab,” Morano said. “He truly qualifies in each area, and is a pillar of the university community with his bright and caring manner. He has a sterling reputation as a clinician, with the ability to diagnose some of the most complicated cases and put apprehensive families to rest with his calm demeanor.”
Butler is respected globally for his contributions in the field of pediatric neurology, receiving accolades for his clinical and research work in movement disorders, neuromuscular disorders, and dysautonomia.
He has also made deep contributions to Houston. In 1976, he established what is now called the Division of Child and Adolescent Neurology in the Department of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School. His work there led to the creation of the Children’s Learning Institute.He has also broadened the capacity for care in the region by founding community clinics, and was also integral to the establishment of a neuromuscular clinic at Shriners Hospitals for Children – Houston.
“Being awarded the President’s Scholar Award for Excellence in Clinical Service represents the capstone of my long tenure at UTHealth Houston,” Butler said. “The Texas Medical Center environment fostered collaborations with colleagues who became lifelong friends. I have enjoyed a rich academic career as an educator, clinician and translational researcher. How fortunate is that?”