In fall of 2025, Dr. Robert O’Connor was given the status of Professor Emeritus of Emergency Medicine. During 18 years of service in the Department of Emergency Medicine, including 16 years as Department Chair, Dr. Robert O’Connor contributed significantly to the School of Medicine, the Medical Center, University of Virginia, the community, and the specialty of Emergency Medicine. He participated in numerous leadership roles throughout the healthcare system and directed the clinical design and introduction of an entirely new Emergency Department (ED). He also was a renowned educator, contributing to both University programs and to scholarly work.
Physician and Nursing Leadership
L-R: John Riordan, MD; Sharon Hardigree, RN; Cathryn Phillips, RN; Robert O’Connor, MD; Deborah Vinton, MD
His exemplary service with national and international organizations exceeds what can be summarized here. Throughout his years of service, he provided expertise to the National Association of EMS Physicians, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Heart Association, Centers for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization, as well as various professional journals.