Nancy Eleanor Nelson M.D.

Educator. Physician. Benefactor. Pioneer. Friends, family, and colleagues from across the United States mourn the loss of the much beloved and revered Nancy Eleanor Nelson, MD. Born in El Paso, TX, Nancy moved to Longmont, CO in the 1930s. She was valedictorian of her Longmont High School senior class in 1951. A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1955 and the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1959, Dr. Nelson represents more than four generations of Nelson Family physicians including Dr. Nelson's brother James Nelson, MD (CU MD '63), late brother William Nelson (CU MD '66), nephew Mark Nelson, MD (USUHS ('93), father Harry Nelson, MD and grandfather--all of whom shared a love of medicine. Dr. Nelson was destined for a career in medicine. From a very early age, she assisted her father, a Longmont-based general practitioner, with young patients when she herself was a young girl. Throughout her career as a pediatrician, Dr. Nelson served as a role model for women in medicine. A pioneer and leader, she was the first woman chief resident in pediatrics at Case Western Reserve University working with the renowned Dr. Benjamin Spock. Nancy would later become the first woman president of the Denver Medical Society. She also held dual roles in academic leadership and teaching, as a professor in both the CU College of Nursing and the CU School of Medicine. Dr. Nelson would later become the associate dean of student affairs, where she supported countless medical students in their journeys to become physicians, researchers, and leaders. In many ways, Dr. Nelson was married to medicine. She was a keen observer and student of the many marvels in health care. She worked closely with the Colorado legislature on several issues promoting pediatric research, health care, and education. She remained active in several associations, including the American Association of Medical Colleges, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Medical Association. She was also a lifelong member of the Longmont Chapter M of PEO. She remained a pianist, violinist, avid traveler, and generous benefactor. Dr. Nelson would go on to establish the prestigious Nelson Endowed Award at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. The award supports the next generation of physicians entering pediatrics, internal medicine, or family medicine. A family memorial service will be held at Longmont Mountain View Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a gift to support the Nelson Award Endowment Fund at the University of Colorado Foundation. Please send your gift in memory of Nancy Nelson to: University of Colorado Foundation, PO Box 17126, Denver CO 80217. On the memo line of the check, please note Fund #0250213 and make it payable to the CU Foundation. Gifts may also be made online at https://giving. cu.edu/ nancynelsonaward. For more information or to request support, please contact Travis Leiker at 303-817-5744.