Chippewa Valley Times

Two Mayo Clinic Health System physicians, Dr. Richard Helmers and Dr. Tim Nelson, are set to receive honorary doctorates at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's spring commencement ceremonies on May 18. Dr. Nelson will deliver the "Charge to the Class" at the 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. ceremonies, while Dr. Helmers will deliver the charge at the 5:30 p.m. ceremony.

Dr. Helmers, who has been serving as the regional vice president for Mayo Clinic Health System in Wisconsin since 2017, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious recognition from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire." He emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing knowledge and shaping the world, highlighting the successful partnership between Mayo Clinic Health System and UWEC.

Chancellor James Schmidt praised both physicians for their leadership and commitment to the collaboration, stating, "Their collective commitment to our mission and continued passion for all that we have and can achieve further confirms my belief that we are only limited by our vision. Recognizing these two colleagues and leaders with honorary doctorates is an important testament to our future."

Dr. Nelson, a graduate of UW-Eau Claire, expressed his humility and gratitude for the honorary doctorate recognition, saying, "To think that the university has seen value in our partnership really ignites me to do more of what we're doing together." He highlighted the success of the research collaboration with UW-Eau Claire, which has initiated more than 100 projects aimed at improving patient healthcare outcomes.

Nelson's innovative approach to research and commitment to continuous innovation have been commended by those who nominated him for the honorary doctorate. His career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, including leading the first clinical trial in the country to use stem cells to treat congenital heart disease in newborns.

The collaboration between Mayo Clinic Health System and UW-Eau Claire has been lauded for its success in exceeding expectations and driving meaningful research and clinical innovation projects. Both Dr. Helmers and Dr. Nelson's contributions have been instrumental in fostering this partnership and advancing knowledge in the field of healthcare.

UW-Eau Claire's recognition of these two accomplished physicians with honorary doctorates underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of healthcare and education.