Monica Peek, MD, MPH has been elected member of the Assocation of American Physicians (AAP). The AAP established October 10, 1885, is an honorific, elected society of America’s leading physician-scientists who exemplify the pinnacle of pioneering and enduring, impactful contributions to improve health. The AAP seeks to inspire the full breadth of physician-led research across all fields of science related to medicine and health, and to build a community of physician scientists in support of the principle that objective science and evidence are essential foundations for improving patient care and the health of Americans. To be a member of the most prestigious Association of American Physicians is a great honor. Members have included Nobel laureates, and members of the National Academy of Science and the Institute of Medicine. The goals of its members include the pursuit of medical knowledge, and the advancement through experimentation and discovery of basic and clinical science and their application to clinical medicine. Each year, individuals having attained excellence in achieving these goals, are recognized by nomination for membership by the Council of the Association. Their election gives them the opportunity to share their scientific discoveries and contributions with their colleagues at the annual meeting. Today, the Association continues to serve as a repository of the best medical minds and as a forum to promote friendship, to create and disseminate knowledge, and to provide role models for upcoming generations of physicians and medical scientists.

Dr. Monica Peek is the Ellen H. Block Professor of Health Justice and Associate Vice Chair for Research Faculty Development in the Department of Medicine. Her work has focused on improving the health and health care for marginalized populations, such as racial/ethnic minorities. She has conducted impactful work on reducing health care disparities and improving the health of residents on the South Side of Chicago. Dr. Peek’s research has had a direct impact on the clinical care of our patients. She also mentors numerous trainees along the academic pipeline; her mentees have accumulated impactful publications and presentations representative of their collaborative research. Dr. Peek successfully mentored the last 3 general medicine research fellows, each of whom has embarked upon productive careers that blend academic research with real-world interventions.