Welcome to the Department of Pediatrics

As Chair of the Department of Pediatrics, it is my privilege to work alongside a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of over 350 faculty members, including a robust network of community-based clinicians. Together, we share one mission: To advance pediatric health through excellence in clinical care, research, advocacy, education, innovation, and community engagement.

Our patients are at the heart of everything we do. We are deeply committed to providing exceptional care for children from birth through young adulthood, addressing a wide range of health needs. Our pediatricians, specialists, and surgeons are not only skilled clinicians but also compassionate caregivers. Our close partnership with the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, a freestanding, full-service pediatric hospital, enhances our ability to provide top-tier care to the children and families we serve.

One of the guiding principles in our work is a shared philosophy that I believe defines the culture of our hospital, faculty, and residency program. It’s a philosophy that can be summed up in four simple words: “How can I help?” To me, this question is at the heart of everything we do. It reflects a mindset of collaboration, where each of us is part of something bigger. It’s not just about individual success; it’s about how we work together to support each other and meet the needs of our patients, colleagues, and learners. Whether it’s asking how we can improve patient care, how we can support our team members, or how we can help shape the future of pediatric medicine, this philosophy fosters a culture of openness, respect, and service.

Education is one of the most fulfilling aspects of our work. We take great pride in training the next generation of pediatricians and healthcare providers through our residency and fellowship programs. Our residents receive a rich and diverse clinical experience, learning from our team of experts while making meaningful contributions to patient care. Mentoring these future pediatricians is genuinely one of the highlights of my role.

Clinical research is the key to improving children’s health. We are dedicated to advancing knowledge by integrating research into our clinical care to offer the most current treatments and interventions. Through partnerships with national and international research institutions, we persist in finding new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat childhood diseases. Whether in pediatric oncology, neurology, gastroenterology, or other areas, our researchers are working to improve children’s lives. 

As pediatricians, we believe that we have a responsibility to advocate for children’s health both locally and nationally. Our faculty is actively involved in shaping policy that improves children’s health. We work hard to ensure that the voices of children and their families are heard in legislative and healthcare reform discussions, as we know that strong advocacy is key to advancing pediatric health.

The strength of our department lies in the collective dedication of our faculty, staff, and community partners. We are proud to work alongside individuals who are not only leaders in pediatric medicine but also advocates, mentors, and compassionate caregivers. Together, we are shaping the future of pediatric healthcare and making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Eric J. Lowe, MD
Chair, Department of Pediatrics
Professor, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
Chief Clinical Academic Officer, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters
Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences 
Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University