Bertram E. Walls Oral History Interview, 2024

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Summary

Creator:
Walls, Bertram E.
Abstract:
Bertram E. Walls, MD, received his medical degree from Duke University Medicine School in 1976, where he also completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Ob/Gyn). It was during this time, Walls worked alongside Donald T. Moore, MD, a renowned Ob/Gyn physician, who had significant influence on Walls' career and personal values. Following his medical training, Walls embarked on a career in private practice, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. Later, Walls pursued further education, graduating from Duke Fuqua Business School in 1994. This collection contains 1 oral history interview conducted on February 10, 2024 by Gemma Holland as part of the Bass Connections Agents of Change Oral History Project. In the interview, Walls discusses Moore's role in establishing clinics at Lincoln Hospital, his mentorship of medical students and residents, and his impact on patient care and surgical skills. The themes of this interview includes advocacy for diversity and inclusion in healthcare, serving underserved communities, and the legacy of Moore.
Extent:
1 interview (1 transcript) and 97.1 MB
Collection ID:
OH.WALLSB

Background

Scope and content:

Includes 1 oral history interview with Dr. Bertram E. Walls conducted on February 10, 2024 by Gemma Holland as part of the Bass Connections Agents of Change Oral History Project.

In the February 10, 2024 interview, Walls discusses Dr. Donald T. Moore's role in establishing clinics at Lincoln Hospital, his mentorship of medical students and residents, and his impact on patient care and surgical skills. The themes of this interview includes advocacy for diversity and inclusion in healthcare, serving underserved communities, and the legacy of Moore.

Biographical / historical:

Bertram E. Walls, MD, received his medical degree from Duke University Medicine School in 1976, where he also completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology (Ob/Gyn). It was during this time, Walls worked alongside Donald T. Moore, MD, a renowned Ob/Gyn physician, who had significant influence on Walls' career and personal values. Moore's presence as one of the few Black faculty members at Duke during that time made a profound impression on Walls and other Black medical students, inspiring them to pursue excellence in their own careers. Moore's encouragement and mentorship extended beyond the confines of the hospital walls. Moore invited Walls and other Black medical students into his home, fostering a sense of community and support that was invaluable during their medical training. Walls fondly remembered Moore's emphasis on striving for greatness, regardless of race or background, and his unwavering belief that "excellence will always prevail."

Following his medical training, Walls embarked on a career in private practice, specializing in Ob/Gyn. Later, he pursued further education, graduating from Duke Fuqua School of Business in 1994. Walls drew upon the lessons learned from Moore, integrating both the science and art of medicine into his practice. Walls recognized the importance of hands-on learning and adopted Moore's approach of providing compassionate care while maintaining high standards of excellence.

Throughout his career, Walls remained committed to giving back to his community and supporting the next generation of medical professionals. He served as a mentor to numerous students and residents, imparting wisdom and guidance learned from his own experiences. Walls emphasized the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in medicine.

Acquisition information:
Accession A2024.075 (transferred by Rebecca Williams, May 2024)
Processing information:

Processed by Lucy Waldrop: November 2024

Arrangement:
Organized into the following series: Interview, February 10, 2024.
Rules or conventions:
DACS

Contents

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Terms of access:

Copyright for Official University records is held by Duke University; all other copyright is retained by the authors of items in these papers, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.

Preferred citation:

[Identification of item], Bertram E. Walls Oral History Interview, Duke University Medical Center Archives.