Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Kenan Ashouri & Dr. Annie Lopez-Ashouri
For Dr. Kenan Ashouri and Dr. Annie Lopez-Ashouri, returning to Baptist Health - Bethesda Hospital is more than a career milestone - it's a personal homecoming. As graduates of the Schmidt College of Medicine's Class of 2018, Bethesda was where the couple first stepped into the world of medicine as students. Now, they've returned as accomplished attending physicians, coming full circle by bringing their expertise and compassion to the very community that once nurtured their development.
"Coming back to Bethesda felt like coming home," said Dr. Annie Lopez-Ashouri, a Radiology-Diagnostic specialist. "The sense of community here is so strong, and reconnecting with the mentors who shaped our careers makes this experience incredibly special." Dr. Kenan Ashouri, now a specialist in reconstructive urology, added, "It's a surreal feeling to walk these halls, not just as a physician, but as someone giving back to the place that invested so much in me."
From Medical Students to Bethesda Attending Physicians
In their current roles at Bethesda Hospital, Dr. Kenan Ashouri focuses on reconstructive urology, while Dr. Annie Lopez-Ashouri applies her expertise in complex abdominal imaging. As specialists, they are committed to expanding healthcare services in South Florida, improving patient outcomes, and contributing to the education of the next generation of medical professionals.
For both doctors, the transition from learners to leaders has been meaningful. "We are building something here," said Dr. Ashouri. "There's a real need for advanced urological care, and I'm excited to be part of bringing these services to the community."
Dr. Lopez-Ashouri echoed the sentiment. "Every day, I see how my training in radiology impacts patients. There is nothing more rewarding than using my skills to help improve lives in the very community where I started."
The couple credits much of their success to the hands-on training and mentorship they received during their time at the Schmidt College of Medicine. The small class sizes and close relationships with attending physicians gave them an invaluable edge. "At Bethesda, we were not just observers - we were integral parts of the care team," recalled Dr. Ashouri. "We worked closely with attending physicians, which gave us the confidence and skills we needed for residency."
Dr. Lopez-Ashouri agreed, adding, "You couldn't walk into Bethesda without everybody knowing who you are. It wasn't just about learning medicine; it was about being part of a family where everyone genuinely cared about your growth and success."
Their time at the Schmidt College of Medicine was distinct not only because of the rigorous academic training but also because of the relationships they built. Working side by side with attending physicians during their clerkships provided them with invaluable real-world experience, helping them excel in their residency programs at prestigious institutions like the University of Florida, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the University of Iowa.
Carrying a Legacy Forward
Mentorship is not only something Dr. Lopez-Ashouri and Dr. Ashouri experienced firsthand; it's now part of the legacy they plan to continue. For Dr. Lopez-Ashouri, the influence of her father, Dr. Miguel Angel Lopez-Viego, a board-certified general and vascular surgeon at Baptist Health, is ever-present in her approach to medicine. His guidance and lessons, such as, "The hospital is a museum - you have to see all the exhibits," have left a lasting impact.
"Our mentors always said, 'Don't sit back waiting for things to happen - seek out experiences, introduce yourself, and always be curious,'" reflected Dr. Ashouri. "That's a mindset that stuck with us throughout our training." Dr. Lopez-Ashouri added, "There's always something happening in the hospital. Even if you think it's a slow day, walk to the ER or the ICU. There's always an opportunity to learn."
By returning to Bethesda, both doctors are not only practicing medicine - they are actively seeking opportunities to mentor the next generation of medical students. Their dedication to teaching is as strong as their commitment to patient care, ensuring that their journey comes full circle by helping others along the same path.
Dr. Ashouri and Dr. Lopez-Ashouri's return to South Florida is more than just a career move - it's a mission. They are both determined to enhance healthcare access and bring advanced medical care to the underserved populations. In the short time since their return, they have already identified cases where their specialized training is making a difference.
"We are excited to build new programs here," said Dr. Ashouri. "There's a real need for reconstructive urology in this area, and I'm thrilled to bring that expertise to the community." Dr. Lopez-Ashouri, equally passionate, added, "In just a few weeks, I've seen how much the community can benefit from my training in complex abdominal imaging. It's rewarding to know that what we've learned will have a real impact on people's lives."
Inspiring the Next Generation
When asked what advice they would give to current medical students, both doctors emphasized the importance of curiosity and perseverance. "Never leave early. Seek out every opportunity to learn," Dr. Lopez-Ashouri advised. "It's those moments when you push yourself to explore that you truly grow as a physician." Dr. Ashouri emphasized the importance of mentorship, adding, "Build relationships with your attending physicians - they are not just there to teach you medicine, but to help shape you into the doctor you are meant to be."
Their message is clear: success in medicine is not just about technical skill; it's about community, curiosity, and giving back. As they continue to expand healthcare services and mentor students at Bethesda, their story will inspire others to pursue their goals with the same passion and commitment.
A Full Circle Journey
Dr. Kenan Ashouri and Dr. Annie Lopez-Ashouri's journey from Schmidt College of Medicine to attending physicians at Bethesda Hospital exemplifies the college's mission of nurturing healthcare professionals who are both compassionate and dedicated to their communities. Their return, now as leaders and mentors, to the very place where their medical journey began is a testament to the lasting influence of their education and their dedication to South Florida. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of how healthcare professionals, when grounded in their roots, can continue to learn, lead, and make a profound difference in the communities that shaped them.
