Southern Medical Association Announces Recipients of the 2024 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships

The Southern Medical Association (SMA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Dr. Donna Breen Scholarships, awarded during SMA’s Annual Scientific Assembly held October 24-26 in Atlanta, Georgia. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Donna Breen, MD, FACS, SMA’s 2021-2022 President, these scholarships, each valued at $2,250, have been awarded to Madison Thornton, a fourth-year MD/MPH student at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, and Ben Loftis, a third-year medical student at the University of South Alabama’s Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine.

Madison is applying to Internal Medicine-Pediatrics (Med-Peds) programs and has a passion for adult congenital cardiology. Her career aspirations include advancing academic medicine, contributing to medical education and mentorship, and advocating for public health.

Ben has served as a leader in SMA’s Physicians-in-Training Personal Development and Wellness Subcommittee, where he is dedicated to supporting the well-being of future healthcare professionals. He is also involved in research on provider wellness and burnout and has held roles as orientation leader for an incoming class and President of the Calm Nutrition Group.

"Dr. Breen’s remarkable generosity has allowed SMA to invest in deserving students like Madison and Ben, individuals committed to advancing medicine and bettering patient care," said SMA Executive Director Randy Glick. "We are deeply grateful to Dr. Breen for her continued leadership and support."

SMA extends warmest congratulations to both recipients and appreciates the commitment of all applicants who strive to make a difference in their communities. It is through generous donations, as well as contributions to SMA’s Research and Education Endowment Fund, which has provided more than $3.7 million in financial support through scientific research grants, loans, and medical student scholarships. To learn more or to donate, please visit https://sma.org/research-and-education/