Jan and Dr. Jay Williamson in 2019, after Dr. Williamson was presented with the Distinguished Physician Award.

Williamson endowment spreads the joy of family medicine

This story originally appeared in the Summer 2020 edition of Promise magazine.

After 47 years in family medicine, Dr. Jay Williamson still radiates a palpable joy when talking about his chosen specialty. Many of his patients have been coming to him for nearly his entire career.

“When I see patients now, it’s like seeing my family,” he said. “I feel so blessed that they let me in their lives. It is so rewarding to be part of that trust. You don’t get that family connection in many other specialties.”

Dr. Williamson and his wife of 51 years, Jan, are helping Summa Health instill that joy in future physicians with a generous gift establishing the Williamson Family Endowed Fund in support of Summa’s Family Medicine Residency Program, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.   

The Williamsons have generously supported the residency program for decades. Their recent endowed gift continues that legacy forever. 

“Primary care is the cornerstone of medicine,” said Dr. Williamson, a pioneer in the field who has taught more than 300 residents over his career. “The residency program is where it starts.” 

Dr. Williamson was honored last June with the 2019 Summa Health Distinguished Physician Award, Summa’s highest physician honor. He and Jan share the personal joy of family with two adult sons, their wives and four grandchildren. 

For more information about supporting the Family Medicine Residency Program at Summa Health, contact Barbara Boyce at 330.375.6356 or boyceb@summahealth.org.