Sean Elliott, MD, pediatrician and professor emeritus, passes away

Sean Elliott, MD, an esteemed pediatrician, infectious disease specialist and academic leader, passed away on May 19. Elliott was honored as a professor emeritus at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson and returned to support the University of Arizona Health Sciences with his expertise in medical education and curriculum for developing programs.

Elliott received his medical degree from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1993 and completed his residency at the Northwestern University School of Medicine before finishing his fellowship in pediatric infectious diseases at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, Washington University School of Medicine. He was certified by the American Board of Pediatrics in general pediatrics and pediatric infectious diseases.

He joined the University of Arizona in 1999 and served in multiple roles, including as director of the Pediatrics Residency Program, associate chair of the Department of Pediatrics, director of infection prevention for Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and interim associate dean for curricular affairs with the College of Medicine – Tucson. He went on to work at Tucson Medical Center as its pediatric infectious disease specialist and joined the University of Arizona Health Sciences as an assistant vice president for curricular affairs in 2023 to share his expertise in medical education and curriculum for developing programs. 

Throughout his academic career, he was recognized at the College of Medicine – Tucson for his outstanding teaching with various awards, including Excellence in Teaching in the Clinical Sciences and Educator of the Year for 2008. In 2013, he received the Leonard Tow Humanism Award from the Arnold P. Gold Foundation and was subsequently inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society for the College of Medicine – Tucson. Elliott had over 40 peer-reviewed publications in his career and grants from the Department of Defense, the National Science Foundation and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In his spare time, he was an avid musician, runner and artist with his carpentry. Elliott was an inspiration to his many students, residents and colleagues. He was also a very devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Kim, and his daughter, Meghan. His warmth, kindness, humor and generous spirit will be truly missed.