Early Education and Medical Training

Dr. Landers' academic journey commenced at Auburn University, where she pursued BS degrees in Biology and Chemistry. During her time at Auburn, she demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, earning a coveted spot in Mortar Board, the National Women’s Honorary. Following her undergraduate studies, she embarked on her medical career, obtaining her MD degree from the esteemed Medical University of South Carolina in 1977. Her academic prowess continued as she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA), the National Medical Honorary.

Specialization and Residency

With a firm foundation in medical education, Dr. Landers pursued specialization in pediatrics, completing her residency at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School hospitals in Dallas, Texas, in 1980. It was during this time that her passion for neonatology began to emerge, laying the groundwork for her future contributions to the field.

Pioneering Work in Neonatology

After completing her residency, Dr. Landers pursued a neonatology fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine hospitals in Houston, Texas, in 1983. This marked the beginning of her illustrious career in academic neonatology, where she dedicated fourteen years to clinical research, teaching, and patient care. Her tenure at Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences saw her publish twenty-three peer-reviewed papers, shaping the discourse in neonatal medicine.

Advocacy and Leadership

Beyond her clinical endeavors, Dr. Landers emerged as a leading voice in breastfeeding medicine. Her expertise earned her recognition as a Fellow of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (FABM) in 2002. Dr. Landers' commitment to education and advocacy saw her serve as a physician educator at national meetings for both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM). Additionally, her tenure on the Executive Committee of the AAP's Section on Breastfeeding from 2008 to 2014 allowed her to influence policy and clinical guidelines, further solidifying her impact on maternal and child health.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Landers' legacy extends to her family life. Together with her husband, Dr. Phillip Berry, she raised three children, instilling in them the values of compassion and service. Their son, David, pursued a career in cinematography, while their daughters, Anne and Laura, found their calling in healthcare.

Dr. Landers' Academic Achievements

Dr. Landers' academic journey began at Auburn University, where she pursued dual degrees in Biology and Chemistry. Her exceptional academic performance led to her induction into Mortar Board, the National Women’s Honorary, showcasing her leadership abilities early on. Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Landers continued to excel in her medical education, earning her MD degree from the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina. Her academic prowess was further recognized as she was inducted into Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA), the National Medical Honorary, highlighting her commitment to excellence in the medical field.

Early Career and Residency

After completing her medical studies, Dr. Landers embarked on her residency in pediatrics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School hospitals in Dallas, Texas. It was during her residency that Dr. Landers' interest in neonatology began to blossom, laying the foundation for her future specialization. Her dedication and commitment to pediatric care earned her recognition among her peers and mentors, setting the stage for her subsequent contributions to the field of neonatology.

Neonatology Fellowship and Research

Following her residency, Dr. Landers pursued a fellowship in neonatology at Baylor College of Medicine hospitals in Houston, Texas. This fellowship provided her with the opportunity to delve deeper into the specialized field of neonatal medicine, where she dedicated herself to clinical research, teaching, and patient care. Dr. Landers' research endeavors yielded twenty-three peer-reviewed papers, contributing to the advancement of neonatal healthcare practices and protocols. Her expertise and dedication earned her widespread acclaim within the medical community, establishing her as a leader in the field of neonatology.

Advocacy in Breastfeeding Medicine

Dr. Landers' commitment to maternal and child health extended beyond her clinical work, leading her to become a prominent advocate for breastfeeding medicine. Her expertise in this area led to her recognition as a Fellow of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (FABM) in 2002, highlighting her significant contributions to the field. Dr. Landers' advocacy efforts included serving as a physician educator at national meetings for both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), where she shared her knowledge and insights with fellow healthcare professionals. Additionally, her tenure on the Executive Committee of the AAP's Section on Breastfeeding allowed her to influence policy and clinical guidelines, furthering the cause of breastfeeding advocacy on a national level.

Legacy and Family Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Landers' legacy is evident in her family life and the values she instilled in her children. Together with her husband, Dr. Phillip Berry, she raised three children, each of whom has pursued their own path in life. Their son, David, followed in his parents' footsteps, pursuing a career in healthcare as a cinematographer. Their daughters, Anne and Laura, have also made significant contributions to the field of healthcare, with Anne working as a pediatric intensive care unit nurse and Laura pursuing her own career in Austin, Texas. Dr. Landers' dedication to her family and her profession serves as an inspiration to all who know her, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond her professional accomplishments.

Conclusion

Dr. Landers' journey is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and compassion in the field of medicine and advocacy. From her early academic achievements to her pioneering work in neonatology and breastfeeding medicine, Dr. Landers has left an indelible mark on the medical community and the lives of countless patients and families. Her legacy serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of healthcare professionals, reminding us all of the importance of striving for excellence and compassion in everything we do.