Kansas LEND Dr. Kathy Ellerbeck Retires

Last week we said "see you later" to Dr. Kathy Ellerbeck after 22 years with Kansas LEND at the Center for Child Health and Development at KU Medical Center.  Dr. Ellerbeck served as the Kansas LEND Director from 2014 to 2019 and is a Developmental Pediatrician that held leadership positions within state and national organizations. Throughout her career she cared for thousands of children and their families as well as taught and made a lasting impression on hundreds of medical and clinical students at the Medical Center and other academic institutions.

Thank you, Dr. Ellerbeck, for mentoring many, bringing leadership, compassion, and joy and your infectious laughter to all those you encountered!  We could not have asked for a better doctor, leader, and co-worker.  Dr. Rene Jamison, current Kansas LEND Director and long-time colleague and friend, shared, “Dr. Ellerbeck demonstrates authentic leadership and interdisciplinary practice through genuine interactions with families and collaboration with trainees and colleagues of all backgrounds. As a mentor, she has consistently invested in those around her to support them as they work towards their goals. Her ongoing impact is significant for our program, faculty, trainees, and families!”

Dr. Ellerbeck is thankful for all those who have celebrated with her in beginning this new phase. In retirement, she will be spending more time with her family, learning to play the mandolin, and going on traveling adventures!