India Tribune Newsdesk
Tucson, AZ: The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson has announced the creation of a new endowed professorship in cardiothoracic surgery to recognize the remarkable career and contributions of Dr. Gulshan Sethi. Established through $1 million in donations and pledges, the professorship celebrates decades of surgical excellence, innovation, and mentorship that have left a lasting imprint on the field and on generations of medical professionals.
Dr. Sethi joined the university in 1988 and went on to play a transformative role in advancing cardiothoracic surgery and cardiovascular research. Among his many achievements, he performed Arizona’s first single-lung transplant in 1989 and founded the Circulatory Science Program, the first master’s-level training program in pharmacology and perfusion technology. Over the course of his career, he completed more than 15,000 open-heart surgeries, authored over 250 peer-reviewed publications, and mentored countless surgeons who continue to shape the discipline today.
University leadership has emphasized the profound influence of his work, noting that many procedures now considered standard practice were built upon foundations he helped establish. His dedication not only improved surgical outcomes but also expanded access to advanced care for patients across Arizona and beyond.
Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Sethi expressed gratitude for the mentors, colleagues, trainees, and patients who defined his journey. He highlighted teaching future surgeons as one of the most meaningful aspects of his career and described the professorship as both a tribute to the past and a commitment to continued progress in research, collaboration, and education. He also acknowledged the unwavering support of his family throughout his professional life.
The endowment was made possible by contributions from a wide network of supporters, including family members, colleagues, former patients, and alumni. More than 60 donors participated, demonstrating the breadth of Dr. Sethi’s impact within and beyond the medical community. Their collective generosity will help strengthen the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery by attracting leading experts and supporting innovative work in patient care and training.
This initiative also contributes to broader fundraising efforts tied to the Sarver Heart Center, which aims to establish a dedicated cardiovascular research institute. The center is working toward a long-term goal of raising $75 million, supported in part by a significant challenge gift that will match funds raised over the coming years. The endowed professorship plays a role in meeting these milestones and advancing the institution’s vision for cutting-edge research and treatment.
Medical leaders at the university have underscored the importance of continued investment in cardiothoracic care, especially as heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide. While advances in technology and surgical techniques have improved survival rates, an aging population and increasingly complex health conditions require sustained innovation and expertise.
The creation of this professorship ensures that Dr. Sethi’s influence will endure through future generations of surgeons who carry forward his standards of excellence. It stands as a tribute not only to a distinguished career but also to a shared commitment to improving lives through medical progress.
The effort is part of the university’s broader fundraising campaign, which seeks to expand opportunities for students, accelerate research discoveries, and strengthen programs across multiple disciplines.
(Source: The University of Arizona)
