The Inova Children’s Hospital Pediatric Residency Program was envisioned by Dr. Mohsen Ziai more than 25 years ago. As Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at Inova Fairfax Hospital for 17 years, until his retirement in 1999, Dr. Ziai helped transform pediatric care and education in Northern Virginia.

His many contributions and accomplishments at Fairfax Hospital included establishing the first and only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) in Northern Virginia; opening the Women’s and Children’s Building; launching the Inova Pediatric Center; initiating the pediatric cardiac surgery program; and establishing a pediatric residency program.

In 1991, the Mohsen Ziai, M.D. Pediatric Endowment was established to support pediatric education, research, and program development. Through the generosity of colleagues and friends, as well as former students and residents in Fairfax, Rochester, New York, and around the world, the endowment grew to $1.9 million, including interest. Its resources were subsequently used by Dr. Ziai’s successors to advance pediatric programs and education.

This year, we celebrate the 20th Annual Mohsen Ziai Pediatric Conference—a remarkable milestone marking two decades of advancing pediatric education and clinical excellence. Over the years, the chairs of the conference have invested well over $1 million in support of this annual educational event, along with multiple REACH courses offered free of charge to local pediatricians, the establishment of a child abuse professorship, and nearly half a million dollars dedicated to neonatal neurodevelopmental research.

This November, we come together to celebrate the realization of Dr. Ziai’s vision and to look toward its exciting future: a pediatric community hospital providing compassionate, world-class care while educating the pediatricians who will shape the future of pediatrics.

Dr. Ziai’s vision began more than two decades ago. Today, it continues to flourish through the dedication of generations of pediatricians, educators, researchers, colleagues, friends, and former trainees who share his commitment to children and to the future of pediatrics.

Please consider making a donation in honor of Dr. Ziai’s memory and enduring legacy. Your generosity will help carry his vision forward by supporting pediatric education, research, and program development, ensuring that his commitment to excellence in the care and education of children continues for generations to come.