Ronald G. Evens, MD

Ronald G. Evens, MD ’64, HS ’70, professor of radiology at Washington University School of Medicine and professor of medical economics at the university’s Olin Business School, is a highly esteemed administrator and world leader in radiology research.

In 1969, Evens became chief resident in radiology at Washington University’s Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology (MIR), then followed as assistant professor of radiology.  By 1971, at the age of 31, he was serving as director of MIR. He also became the first endowed chair in radiology as the Elizabeth Mallinckrodt Professor. Under his 28 years of leadership, MIR grew substantially in size and stature, gaining recognition as one of the best Radiology departments in the world. Today, MIR is known worldwide for groundbreaking contributions to radiology research and clinical care — work that has contributed substantially to the success of Washington University Medical Center.

Evens also has held several major leadership roles at Washington University Medical Center. He served as president and CEO of St. Louis Children’s Hospital from 1985-1988, was Washington University’s vice chancellor for financial affairs for three years, then served as president of Barnes-Jewish Hospital from 1999-2005. He has also contributed as vice president of the Washington University Medical Center, senior executive officer for special projects at BJC HealthCare, and interim president of Barnes-Jewish College of Nursing.

Evens’ contributions to the specialty of radiology have had both a national and international impact. Author of more than 250 articles and textbooks, Evens has received the highest honors from multiple organizations, including gold medals from three prestigious academic societies. He has also served as president of more than half a dozen of radiology’s most important academic organizations. As chair on the Board of Regents for the National Library of Medicine, the largest medical library in the world, Evens helps advise and guide the library as it manages the worldwide flow of medical information.

Evens received his bachelor’s and medical degrees from Washington University in 1961 and 1964, respectively. He then completed postgraduate training in radiology and nuclear medicine at Washington University and served as a research associate at the National Institutes of Health.

The Washington University Medical Center Alumni Association is pleased to present its Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Evens.