Honoring Leonidas Harris Berry, MD
July 20, 1902 – December 4, 1995
Dr. Leonidas Harris Berry was known for his groundbreaking work in gastroenterology and endoscopy. After earning several bachelor of science degrees, he entered residency at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, IL in 1931. He completed both is residency and gastroenterology fellowship as the first black intern in the facility. Berry joined the staff at Michael Reese Hospital in 1946 and became the first black physician on staff at this facility. In addition to his medical achievements, Berry was dedicated to bringing medical care to African American communities that had none. He helped organize the Flying Black Medics, a group of practitioners who flew from Chicago to Cairo to bring medical care and health education to members of the local community. He was also actively involved in community service. He was a founding member of the Chicago Council for Biomedical Careers. The council provided education and resources to encourage and prepare African American youth for careers in medicine.
Brought to you by the Resident/Fellow IDEA Committee