June 25, 2004

Dear Colleagues:

I am delighted to announce the appointment of Jeffrey B. Palmer, M.D., an expert in swallowing disorders and a member of our faculty for more than 20 years, to lead the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, effective immediately. In recommending Dr. Palmer with tremendous confidence and enthusiasm, the search committee, headed by Frank Frassica, assures us that Dr. Palmer’s background and expertise will complement and broaden the areas of study in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and help enhance the work of a growing academic department.

Jeffrey Palmer came to Hopkins 21 years ago and has served as assistant professor, professor and current director of research in his department, where he honed his interest in the science of swallowing. He also holds a professional appointment in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and has authored scores of scientific articles. Among his awards is an honorary membership in the Japanese Society for Dysphagia Rehabilitation. He is also a member of the European Society of Oral Physiology.

Jeffrey Palmer epitomizes the "triple threat" Johns Hopkins faculty member: a superb clinician, a devoted and accomplished teacher and an internationally recognized investigator in his field.

Please join me in welcoming him to his new post and in thanking Barbara de Lateur for her 10 years of distinguished leadership of the department.
Sincerely,

Edward D. Miller, M.D.