The Department would like to recognize Melissa Culp, M.Ed., RT(R)(MR), for her July 1, 2019, appointment as Director of UNC Global Radiology, and for receiving a secondary appointment as Clinical Assistant Professor of Radiology. This newly created position formalizes the leadership that Melissa has provided over seven years in facilitating the global health initiatives carried out by the UNC RAD-AID Chapter, a collaboration between UNC’s Division of Radiologic Science and Department of Radiology.
As Director of UNC Global Radiology, Melissa leads the Department’s efforts in carrying out the UNC School of Medicine’s global health mission and guides sustainable contributions in collaboration with RAD-AID International. RAD-AID International is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that improves and optimizes access to medical imaging in low-resource areas worldwide by closing gaps in radiology education, equipment and infrastructure. In this position, Melissa works closely with the Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Residency program directors and clinical faculty leads on enriching departmental trainee opportunities in global health electives that support partnering institutions in Kenya and Malawi.
Melissa has served as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at RAD-AID International since 2015, and she has been a member of the RAD-AID management team since 2013. Additionally, she is a Clinical Assistant Professor in UNC’s Department of Allied Health Sciences, with clinical and research interests in global health, diversity and inclusion, patient safety and radiation protection.
Reflecting on her new post, Melissa noted: “I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the radiology global health community at UNC. Among the faculty, staff, and trainees, we have a strong commitment to improving health equity globally via sustainable methodologies, including education, collaboration, and innovation. I look forward to nurturing our current efforts, featuring our strong work within the profession, and stewarding this excellent team.”
Interim Chair Dr. Keith Smith stated: “I am very excited to have Melissa formally join our department and take on this leadership role as Director of UNC Global Radiology. Many of you are aware that she has been a cornerstone of the global health efforts for the UNC Department of Radiology for many years. This title and faculty appointment are a recognition of that ongoing effort, expertise and advocacy for our global health program. I look forward to continuing that great work together.”