Dr. Potts receives emeritus status

Dr. Potts with Erin Sondgeroth on Match Day

Dr. Michael Potts is now a University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford associate professor emeritus of pediatrics.

He spent 31 years with UICOMR before retiring on Friday, May 31, 2024. He came to the campus in 1993 as a practicing pediatrician, the Director of Ambulatory Pediatrics and the Pediatric Clerkship Director.

Dr. Potts has dedicated his career to teaching, both at the medical student and resident level. He is a very active lecturer, with above average evaluation scores, and has mentored numerous medical students and residents over the years.

He has been instrumental in developing the clerkship, including streamlining core objectives, integrating computer-based virtual patient teaching cases, developing skills for standardized hand-off from one clinical provider to another and creating a team-based learning component.

His extensive service to the college both in Rockford and college-wide includes participation and leadership roles in multiple committees, the UIC senate, and as interim chair of the department of Pediatrics. His service has extended nationally, with significant involvement in the Council on Medical Student Education in Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the medical journal Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.

“Dr. Potts has been an integral faculty member of UICOMR for more than 30 years,” says Alex Stagnaro-Green, MD, MHPE, MHA, regional dean. “He has trained thousands of students in pediatrics during his tenure. Dr. Potts in an innovative educator, curricular leader, and devoted faculty member who has provided outstanding service to UICOMR.”

Congratulations to Dr. Potts on this honor!