Please join Minnesota Epilepsy Group in extending our congratulations to Dr. Penovich on her retirement from MEG.

Dr. Penovich has been an integral part of MEG for the last 27 years and we are beyond grateful for her guidance, leadership, and dedication towards care of patients with epilepsy. In her illustrious career to-date, she has made a huge impact on care of women with epilepsy of childbearing age. She has also contributed to and co-authored multiple reports from the landmark studies (NEAD and MONEAD) on the developmental outcomes of children with in-utero exposure to anti-seizure medications and the effects of medications and seizures on pregnancy. These studies have made a paradigm shift in the field of epilepsy. As a neurologist with training in pharmacology, she was one of the principal investigators in most of the clinical trials that produced the new anti-seizure medications since 1984. She has been a prolific speaker on epilepsy and related topics at both local and national levels and presented clinical research nationally and internationally. She has been active with the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota on the Board and more recently on the Professional Advisory Board. She has been actively involved in the education of epilepsy among trainee physicians and leads the Neurology Resident Scholar Program. Dr. Penovich has been a vocal patient advocate and worked closely with national societies and patient groups in turning the spotlight on how epilepsy and the stigma attached to the diagnosis affects patient and their family’s lives.

In the next phase of her career, she plans to focus further on education and training for the next generation of neurologists and epilepsy specialists as well as contributing to advocacy efforts and guideline development. Thank you Dr. Penovich for your commitment to our patients, our mission, and to the field of epilepsy. You serve as the guiding light for all of us.

 

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