Jerome Adams, MD
Jerome Adams, MD, (1974 – )
The Aesculapian Medical Society (AMS) proudly recognizes and honors the distinguished career and enduring service of Jerome Adams, MD, a physician whose leadership, advocacy, and commitment to health equity have left a lasting impact on both the medical profession and the communities we serve.
Dr. Adams, a board-certified anesthesiologist, has exemplified excellence in clinical medicine, public health leadership, and national service. His tenure as the 20th Surgeon General of the United States reflected a steadfast dedication to improving population health, addressing health disparities, and elevating the role of prevention in healthcare. Through his work, he has consistently emphasized the importance of community engagement, education, and trust-building between healthcare systems and the populations they serve.
Within the Aesculapian tradition of advancing equity in medicine and supporting the professional development of physicians of color, Dr. Adams stands as an important figure whose career aligns with the mission of service, leadership, and advocacy. His voice has been especially influential in raising awareness around public health crises, including the opioid epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic, while also underscoring the need for culturally competent care and inclusive health communication strategies.
AMS extends its appreciation to Dr. Adams for his contributions to medicine and public service, and for serving as a role model to emerging physicians who aspire to lead at the intersection of clinical care, community health, and national policy. His career continues to inspire future generations of physicians committed to excellence, equity, and service.
The Aesculapian Medical Society celebrates Dr. Jerome Adams for his exemplary leadership and his ongoing commitment to improving the health and well-being of all communities.
Read more at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerome_Adams.
Virginia A. Caine, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors the service, leadership, and enduring legacy of Virginia A. Caine, MD, a transformative physician and public health advocate whose career has advanced health equity, strengthened public health systems, and improved the lives of countless residents in Marion County and beyond.
As Director and Chief Medical Officer of the Marion County Public Health Department, Dr. Caine has devoted her career to improving access to care, expanding preventive health efforts, and championing the well-being of vulnerable and underserved communities.
Virginia A. Caine, MD
Dr. Virginia A. Caine stands as a transformative leader, dedicated physician, and unwavering advocate for public health in Marion County and beyond. As Director and Chief Medical Officer of the Marion County Public Health Department, Dr. Caine has devoted her career to advancing health equity, improving access to care, and strengthening the public health infrastructure for the residents of Indianapolis.
A board-certified infectious disease specialist, Dr. Caine has long been recognized for her clinical excellence and deep commitment to vulnerable and underserved populations. Her work has consistently focused on addressing health disparities, particularly among communities disproportionately affected by infectious diseases, chronic illness, and social determinants of health.
Through her leadership, the Marion County Public Health Department has expanded community outreach, enhanced preventive health initiatives, and strengthened partnerships with healthcare organizations, community leaders, and public health advocates.
Dr. Caine’s steady and compassionate leadership has been especially evident during times of public health crisis. Her voice became a trusted source of clarity, guidance, and reassurance for the community. She has consistently championed science-based decision-making while maintaining a deeply human-centered approach, ensuring that the needs of diverse populations remained at the forefront of public health planning and response.
In addition to her public health leadership, Dr. Caine has made substantial contributions through her work with local, state, and national medical societies. She has been an active and influential member of organizations dedicated to advancing the practice of medicine, promoting physician collaboration, and addressing healthcare disparities.
Through her involvement with professional medical associations, Dr. Caine has helped shape policy discussions, advocate for equitable healthcare delivery, and foster mentorship opportunities for physicians, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her engagement with medical societies has strengthened the collective voice of physicians working to improve both clinical care and public health outcomes.
Beyond her administrative and clinical accomplishments, Dr. Caine is widely respected as a mentor, educator, and role model. She has inspired generations of healthcare professionals through her commitment to service, integrity, and excellence. Her contributions extend into numerous professional organizations, advisory boards, and civic initiatives, where she continues to influence policy, advocate for equitable healthcare access, and promote preventive medicine.
Dr. Caine’s legacy is reflected in healthier communities, strengthened public health systems, and the countless lives positively impacted by her leadership and advocacy. Her career embodies the highest ideals of medicine and public service—compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to improving the well-being of others.
The Indianapolis community is profoundly grateful for Dr. Virginia Caine’s enduring service, visionary leadership, and tireless commitment to protecting and promoting the health of Marion County residents.
Raymond O. Pierce, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors the life, service, and enduring legacy of Raymond O. Pierce, MD, a distinguished physician and past member whose career exemplified dedication, integrity, and compassion.
Dr. Pierce established a thriving practice in Orthopedic Surgery.
Raymond O. Pierce, MD
In 1970 he was appointed Director of Orthopedic Surgery at Wishard Memorial Hospital. He subsequently started a career in teaching and research as a professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine. While there, became a nationally respected expert in Orthopedic Surgery, particularly in the field of trauma. He contributed to medical text books and authored numerous research publications.
He was a member of several medical organizations including, The National Medical Association, The American Medical Association, The Aesculapian Medical Society, The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, The International College of Surgeons, The American Trauma Society and The American Orthopedic Association. He was a founding member of the J. Robert Gladden Orthopedic Society and served as an examiner for the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. In 1991, Dr. Pierce was invited to serve on the Advisory Committee for Injury Prevention and Control of the Centers for Disease Control.
Dr. Pierce was very active in many civic activities in Indianapolis, including being instrumental in the founding of the Indianapolis Sickle Cell Center and Martin University. He served on many boards including state councils on Black and Minority Health, a commission on health care in penal institutions and he was an original member of the Multicultural Minority Commission for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. He was a supportive member of Holy Angels, St. Monica and St. Rita Parishes in Indianapolis. Dr. Pierce was the recipient of many awards and honors including being twice named a Sagamore of the Wabash by governor’s Robert Orr (1984) and Frank O’Bannon (2001).
Dr. Pierce devoted his professional life to the care of others, earning the trust and respect of patients at Wishard Memorial Hospital, colleagues, and the broader community. He was known for his thoughtful approach to medicine, his commitment to excellence, and his unwavering sense of responsibility to those he served. Through his work, he demonstrated that the practice of medicine is both a science and a calling.
As a member of the Aesculapian Medical Society, Dr. Pierce valued fellowship, mentorship, and the collective mission of advancing the professional development and unity of African American physicians. His involvement reflected a deep appreciation for the Society’s role in supporting physicians and promoting health equity within the community.
Dr. Pierce’s legacy is reflected in the lives he touched, the standards he upheld, and the example he set for future generations. His contributions to medicine and to the Aesculapian Medical Society will be remembered with gratitude and respect.
The Aesculapian Medical Society extends its sincere condolences to Dr. Pierce’s family, friends, and colleagues. We honor his memory and give thanks for a life dedicated to service.
May his memory be a blessing and his legacy continue to inspire.
George H. Rawls, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors the life, legacy, and lasting contributions of George H. Rawls, MD, a devoted physician, historian, and past member whose work helped preserve the rich heritage of African American physicians in Indianapolis and beyond.
Through his dedication to medicine, history, and community, Dr. Rawls ensured that the stories and achievements of pioneering Black physicians would be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
George H. Rawls, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors the life, legacy, and lasting contributions of George H. Rawls, MD, a devoted physician, historian, and past member whose work preserved the rich heritage of Black physicians in Indianapolis and beyond.
Dr. Rawls was more than a skilled and compassionate clinician—he was a steward of history. Through meticulous research and thoughtful storytelling, he documented the lives, struggles, and achievements of African American physicians who practiced in an era when opportunity was limited but determination was boundless.
His work ensured that their names, sacrifices, and triumphs would not be forgotten, serving as both a historical record and a source of inspiration for future generations of physicians and community leaders.
As a member of the Aesculapian Medical Society and the Indianapolis chapter of the National Medical Association, Dr. Rawls embodied the organization’s mission of professional excellence, fellowship, and service to the community. He understood that medicine is not practiced in isolation but within a broader social and historical context.
Through his research, writing, and mentorship, Dr. Rawls dedicated himself to honoring those who paved the way for progress and equity in healthcare. His work strengthened the collective memory of the medical community and helped ensure that the legacy of early African American physicians would remain visible and respected.
Dr. Rawls leaves behind a profound legacy—one that reminds us of the importance of remembering our past while continuing to advocate for excellence and justice in medicine.
His contributions will continue to educate, inspire, and guide physicians for years to come.
The Aesculapian Medical Society extends its deepest gratitude for Dr. Rawls’ life’s work and his unwavering contributions to the Indianapolis chapter of the National Medical Association and the Aesculapian Medical Society. May his memory be a blessing and his legacy endure.
Patricia Treadwell, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society celebrates the life, service, and enduring legacy of Patricia Treadwell, MD, a devoted Indianapolis pediatrician and pediatric dermatologist whose distinguished career exemplified excellence, leadership, and compassionate service.
For more than 35 years, Dr. Treadwell practiced general pediatrics and pediatric dermatology with a deep commitment to ensuring every child received the best care possible while working in respectful collaboration with families.
Patricia Treadwell, MD, Retired
The Aesculapian Medical Society celebrates Dr. Patricia Treadwell, a devoted Indianapolis pediatrician and pediatric dermatologist whose distinguished career and enduring commitment to medicine exemplify excellence, leadership, and service.
Dr. Treadwell practiced general pediatrics and pediatric dermatology for more than 35 years. She believes that every child deserves the best care she can deliver and is committed to respectful collaboration with families to meet their children’s medical needs. Through her work as a pediatrician, Dr. Treadwell demonstrated a sincere desire to give back to her community.
A frequent national lecturer on pediatric dermatology, Dr. Treadwell served on numerous local and national boards and committees. Her work reflected a deep belief in medicine as both a science and a calling.
Dr. Treadwell was the first African American woman to rise through the ranks to full professor with tenure at the Indiana University School of Medicine. As a faculty member in the Departments of Pediatrics and Dermatology, she served as both teacher and mentor to generations of students and young physicians.
She later served as Chief Diversity Officer at the Indiana University School of Medicine, acting as a critical advisor to the medical school dean on matters of diversity, equity, and inclusion across all areas of the school’s mission.
Throughout her career, Dr. Treadwell credited the mentors who helped her believe in her own abilities. In turn, she sought to provide that same guidance to others through mentorship, meaningful dialogue, and collaboration, helping members of the medical community feel valued and included.
Dr. Treadwell’s involvement in the Aesculapian Medical Society extended her impact beyond clinical practice. She contributed meaningfully to the Society’s mission of fellowship, mentorship, and advocacy for African American physicians. Her leadership strengthened professional bonds, uplifted colleagues, and inspired the next generation of physicians.
Even in retirement, Dr. Treadwell’s legacy continues to shine through the lives she touched, the standards she set, and the example she leaves behind. Her career represents a life well lived in service to others and to the medical profession.
Dr. Treadwell’s legacy endures through the many lives she touched, the example she set for colleagues, and the inspiration she provided to those who follow in her path. She continues to be remembered for her grace, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of medicine.
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors Dr. Patricia Treadwell with gratitude and pride, celebrating her remarkable achievements and lasting influence.
With appreciation and admiration, the Aesculapian Medical Society thanks Dr. Treadwell for her extraordinary service and celebrates her enduring legacy.
Wilbert Washington, MD
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors the life, legacy, and lasting contributions of Wilbert Washington, MD (1932–2019), a respected Indianapolis physician whose career was defined by compassionate care, pioneering achievement, and an unwavering commitment to community health.
Dr. Washington was the first African American ophthalmologist to practice in Indianapolis and devoted nearly five decades to serving his patients with dedication, professionalism, and genuine care.
Wilbert Washington, MD (1932–2019)
Dr. Wilbert Washington was a respected Indianapolis physician whose life and career were defined by service, compassion, and an enduring commitment to community health. Throughout his years in medicine, he exemplified what it means to care for people not only as patients, but as individuals deserving of dignity, respect, and understanding.
Dr. Washington began his medical education at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee. After graduation, he completed his internship in North Carolina and his residency in ophthalmology at Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.
He later established his medical practice in Indianapolis, becoming the city’s first African American ophthalmologist. Known simply as “Doc” by many of his patients, Dr. Washington served the Indianapolis community for 47 years before retiring in 2010.
Dr. Washington maintained an active presence in numerous professional and civic organizations throughout his career. He was a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the NAACP, and a member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, the Indiana State Medical Association, and The Society to Prevent Blindness, where he served as president from 1978 to 1981.
He was also an active member of the National Medical Association, serving as national vice-president and later as an Emeritus Ophthalmologist in the National Medical Association Ophthalmology Section. In addition, he was a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Aesculapian Medical Society.
Dr. Washington was widely known for his thoughtful and attentive approach to patient care. Patients frequently spoke of his ability to listen carefully, explain clearly, and address concerns with patience and empathy. His practice reflected a deep belief that healing begins with trust—trust he earned through consistency, professionalism, and genuine human connection.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Washington achieved significant professional milestones and became a trusted presence within Indianapolis healthcare. Colleagues valued his steady leadership, clinical insight, and collaborative spirit. He remained committed to learning and growth while maintaining the core values that define the medical profession.
Equally important was his role as a mentor and advocate. Dr. Washington generously shared his knowledge and experience with students, young physicians, and healthcare professionals, encouraging them to pursue excellence while remaining grounded in service to others. His mentorship helped shape careers and strengthen the medical community for generations.
Family was central to Dr. Washington’s life. He drew strength and purpose from those closest to him, and his pride in his family was evident to all who knew him. His legacy continues through them, as well as through the many lives he touched as a physician, mentor, and community leader.
Dr. Wilbert Washington’s impact continues to be felt across Indianapolis. His life stands as a testament to the power of compassionate care, quiet leadership, and lifelong dedication to others.
The Aesculapian Medical Society honors Dr. Washington’s memory with deep gratitude and lasting respect.
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