Kayser Enneking, M.D., professor of anesthesiology and orthopaedics, is a name synonymous with excellence in the field of anesthesiology. Due to her exceptional contributions throughout her 30+ years of service at the University of Florida College of Medicine, she has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
“We’re fortunate that Kayser chose to return to Gainesville and make our department and institution her professional home,” said Nikolaus Gravenstein, M.D., the Jerome H. Modell, M.D., Professor of Anesthesiology and professor of neurosurgery and periodontology. “As a leader, she operationalized, innovated and improved many things we now take for granted. This includes our world-class regional anesthesia service and fellowship, ambulatory surgery, a variety of ERAS protocols, our preoperative clinic and UF Women in Medicine and Science.”
Dr. Enneking has been instrumental in the teaching of perioperative medicine, and her impact on numerous anesthesiology trainees is evident. Her students will carry on her legacy of exceptional medical care as they become the next generation of anesthesiologists.
“Dr. Enneking is a strong female leader who has created pathways for other women to excel and stand out in the field of anesthesiology at the University of Florida,” said Amanda Frantz, M.D., assistant professor of anesthesiology. “I know that her mentorship has encouraged high standards for patient care and resident education. Dr. Enneking’s impact on future female physicians and future generations in medicine will be immeasurable.”
Amanda Frantz, M.D., assistant professor of anesthesiology
“…her mentorship has encouraged high standards for patient care and resident education. Dr. Enneking’s impact on future female physicians and future generations in medicine will be immeasurable.”
One of her most significant contributions to the field of anesthesiology is her pioneering work in the use of perineural sheath catheters for outpatient surgery. This innovation revolutionized the recovery process for patients, enabling them to recover in the comfort of their homes without pain. Her work has made a significant difference in the lives of countless patients who can now undergo outpatient surgical procedures with greater ease and comfort.
Throughout her career, Dr. Enneking has held several roles at the University of Florida College of Medicine, including chief of the Division of Regional Anesthesia, chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, and, most recently, interim associate chair of research. “Since her appointment last year, she has brought a much-needed sense of calm and accountability and has fostered active communication and transparency,” said Amy Gunnett, BSN, manager of clinical research. “Kayser has proven her commitment to the department and to its research, and our office can’t thank her enough for her leadership and guidance.”
Her tireless efforts to improve the quality of care provided to patients have earned her numerous awards, including the T.W. Andersen Teaching Award and the Haven Perkins Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2021, Dr. Enneking was awarded the prestigious Gaston Labat Award from the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field. She was also the recipient of the ASRA Distinguished Service Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of regional anesthesia and/or pain medicine. In 2020, Dr. Enneking was honored with the ASRA Trailblazer Award, which recognizes women in regional anesthesia and pain medicine for their achievements.
Dr. Enneking has served on the ASRA Board of Directors, where she played a key role in shaping the direction of the organization. Additionally, she chaired the UF Health Shands Quality Committee, working to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care possible.
Dr. Enneking’s achievements and contributions to the field of anesthesiology are truly exceptional. “I have always been impressed by Dr. Enneking’s dedication and devotion to excellence in clinical care, research and innovation,” said Basma Mohamed, MBChB, assistant professor of anesthesiology. “Her service to the UF College of Medicine has been extraordinary, and this lifetime achievement award is very well deserved.”
