Sarah Donohue, MD

Page Family Endowed Chief Resident

What is your primary professional focus in any or all of our mission areas (clinical, research, and/or medical education)?
I plan to be an academic Rheumatologist with a primary focus on women’s health. Given my past experiences and current role as Chief Resident, I believe clinical education is of the utmost importance. Combining these two passions, my career focus is to educate the future generation and work toward addressing racial and gender inequities in medicine and our community.

What drew you to UW-Madison and the Department of Medicine?
The Wisconsin Idea that research and education should focus on the direct needs of fellow Wisconsinites is a powerful message that has resonated with me since my time as an undergraduate at UW. I found excellent mentors within the Department of Medicine who allowed me to clinically problem solve, explore career options and provided me with the skillset needed to become an early Clinician Educator as a Chief Resident.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?
Teaching and working bedside with the residents. As the current UW Chief, I have been fortunate enough to lead UW Morning Report, work one-on-one with interns to prepare Intern Report and coach intern and senior residents on the wards. I will be attending at the VA this winter and look forward to returning to chalk talks and bedside teaching.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
Spending time with my husband and our golden retriever Minerva ("Minnie") in quarantine eagerly awaiting safe reunions with our extended family. I also enjoy all things Bravo TV, Mediterranean food, cycling and strength classes with Peloton and pretending to be on House Hunters Renovation in the role of project manager.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
“There’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice. And there’s grace in being willing to know and hear others.” -Michelle Obama, Becoming