Katharine (Kate) O’Connell White, MD, has been named the new Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Boston Medical Center (BMC) and Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine.
Since joining BMC in 2015, White has demonstrated her expertise, leadership, and dedication to advancing reproductive health with a focus on critical areas, including contraception, patient-centered outcomes, and advocating for historically marginalized birthing individuals. In her roles as Vice Chair of Academics, the Associate Director of the Complex Family Planning Fellowship, and the Director of BEACON Research at BMC, she is a highly respected thought leader with a deep commitment to patient care and health equity.
White’s strategic leadership will build on the expert care the department provides, while working to eliminate disparities in health outcomes for BMC’s patients. She is also committed to mentoring the next generation of obstetrician-gynecologists, co-leading BMC’s efforts in developing one of the most diverse OBGYN residency programs in the country.
“Dr. White has always been a leader and voice for those without one, and we are looking forward to having her lead our Obstetrics and Gynecology department,” said Alastair Bell, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Boston Medical Center Health System. “With nationally recognized expertise and values that align with those of BMC, Dr. White will continue to foster equitable and excellent care for our patients.”
“Dr. White has been an integral part of our school, and we warmly welcome her as Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology,” said Karen Antman, MD, BU Medical Campus Provost and Dean, BU Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. “Dr. White’s in-depth knowledge and capabilities in her field will advance the education, training, and research of our medical school.”
White is a fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and of the Society of Family Planning, and a member of the American Public Health Association. In 2011, she received the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG) National Faculty Award for Excellence in Resident Education.
White received her medical degree from Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and a master’s in public health from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. She completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate and a fellowship in family planning at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons.
White’s appointment follows the decision by Aviva Lee-Parritz, MD, to step down as Chief and Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology after more than two decades of contributions to the hospital, medical school, and community.
About Boston Medical Center
Boston Medical Center models a new kind of excellence in healthcare, where innovative and equitable care empowers all patients to thrive. We combine world-class clinicians and cutting-edge treatments with compassionate, quality care that extends beyond our walls. As an award-winning health equity leader, our diverse clinicians and staff interrogate racial disparities in care and partner with our community to dismantle systemic inequities. And as a national leader in research and the teaching affiliate for Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, we’re driving the future of care.
Media Contact:
Please reach out to the Boston Medical Center Media Relations team with any questions.