ACEP and its members mourn the loss of Nancy J. Auer, MD, FACEP, a pioneering physician, leader, and advocate whose career shaped the field of emergency medicine.

Dr. Auer will be remembered as a trailblazer who broke barriers as ACEP’s first woman president in 1997. She also served as president of the International Federation of Emergency Medicine in 1998 and the Washington State Medical Association in 2000. ACEP recognized her leadership in emergency medicine with the John G. Wiegenstein Leadership Award in 2001. A lecture named in her honor is given annually at ACEP’s Scientific Assembly.

Dr. Auer displayed a steadfast commitment to patients throughout an exemplary clinical career. In 1980, she joined Providence Swedish in the Puget Sound region of Washington state, where she helped establish its emergency department. Over decades of service, she held many roles: first serving as Director of Emergency Services, then becoming the first female Chief of Staff, and then the first female Chief Medical Officer.

Colleagues knew Dr. Auer for her accomplishments but also for her generosity and wisdom. Her leadership and mentorship opened doors for many emergency physicians and women in medicine. Her legacy will endure through countless programs and professionals that she influenced. ACEP extends its deepest gratitude for Dr. Auer’s service and her lasting contributions to the specialty.

Information about arrangements will be shared when they are available.