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Robert R. Kuske, Jr., MD '80
For nearly 130 years, the paradigm in breast cancer treatment, established by Sir William Halsted in 1896, mandated that every breast cancer required full breast treatment. Radical or modified radical mastectomy, or whole breast radiation therapy, was the standard, regardless of how early the cancer was detected or its biological profile.
Dr. Kuske challenged this long-held dogma, hypothesizing that select breast cancers could be treated with a more localized and less invasive approach. He pioneered the use of brachytherapy—a technique involving tiny radioactive Iridium-192 seeds—to deliver targeted radiotherapy. Unlike traditional methods, brachytherapy focuses on the affected part of the breast, significantly reducing treatment time from six weeks to just 4–5 days through Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI). This approach not only minimizes side effects but also gives women more time with their families and careers.
Dr. Kuske's vision began during his residency at the University of Cincinnati (1980–1984). With mentorship from Dr. Bernard Aron and encouragement from Dr. Pearl Compaan, Dr. Kuske explored brachytherapy as an adjunct (boost) treatment following external beam whole-breast irradiation.
After seven years as Chief of the Breast Cancer Service at Washington University, Dr. Kuske became the youngest department chairman in the U.S., leading Radiation Oncology at the renowned Ochsner Clinic in New Orleans in 1990. Recognized as a breast cancer expert, he lectured internationally and conducted courses for major organizations like the Radiologic Society of North America and the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology.
The treatment was a success, leading Dr. Kuske and his colleagues to initiate a Phase II clinical trial for 124 carefully selected patients. When they presented their initial results at an international conference in 1994, the potential paradigm shift was clear.
Christopher B. Peltier, MD '91, '95
Dr. Peltier, MD, FAAP, earned his BS in Biology from the University of Cincinnati in 1991 and his MD from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 1995. He completed his pediatric residency at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis (1995–1998), followed by a year as Chief Resident (1998–1999).
Dr. Peltier returned to Cincinnati as a Board-Certified General Pediatrician and joined Pediatric Associates of Mount Carmel, Inc., where he had trained during medical school. He became a partner in the practice in 2001, providing comprehensive care with clinical interests in infant nutrition and mental health. Over 25 years, Dr. Peltier has mentored medical students and residents, while also serving as Principal Site Investigator for over 50 clinical trials, focusing on vaccines, infant formula, and pediatric therapeutics.
In 2007, Dr. Peltier joined the Division of General and Community Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) as an Academic General Pediatrician. He is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and Director of the Community Section at CCHMC. His academic focus includes community-based medical education, faculty development, and professional identity formation for trainees. He has delivered over 120 presentations, authored 25 peer-reviewed articles, and presented 40 abstracts at national pediatric conferences.
Dr. Peltier oversees the Pediatric Resident Continuity Clinic and the Private Practice rotation for pediatric residents. He is also known for his expertise in teaching clinical preceptors and has mentored nearly 60 pre-medical students, medical students, residents, and peers.
At the state level, Dr. Peltier is the Immediate Past President of the Ohio Chapter, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). He has led initiatives addressing vaccine hesitancy, adolescent health, mental health, and Medicaid reimbursement for pediatricians. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he collaborated with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine on back-to-school recommendations and advocated for evidence-based policies. Under his leadership, the Ohio Chapter won the AAP Outstanding Very Large Chapter Award.
Nationally, Dr. Peltier has served as Education Chair for the AAP Council on Community Pediatrics and is a member of the AAP Practical Pediatrics Course Planning Committee. He is also active in the Academic Pediatric Association and the Council on Medical Student Education in Pediatrics.
Locally, Dr. Peltier has been a driving force in pediatric healthcare, serving as Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chair of the Board of Directors for Tri-State Child Health Services. He has been on the Board of Directors of the Cincinnati Pediatric Society since 2004 and was instrumental in improving pediatric mental health and addressing legislative challenges.
Imamu O. Tomlinson, MD '00
Dr. Imamu Tomlinson, MD, MBA, is a visionary healthcare leader and the Chief Executive Officer of Vituity, a physician-owned and physician-led multi-specialty partnership. Under his leadership, Vituity has advanced its mission to transform healthcare delivery through innovation, integrated care models, and a commitment to patient-centered outcomes. Dr.Tomlinson’s influence extends across emergency medicine, acute care, telemedicine, and consumer medicine, shaping the future of healthcare for providers and patients alike.
As the founder and President of the Vituity Cares Foundation, Dr. Tomlinson is dedicated to advancing healthcare equity and empowering underserved communities. The foundation focuses on initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and community outreach to improve access to care and inspire future leaders in medicine.
In 2025, Dr. Tomlinson will launch his podcast, Less Than One Percent, where he explores topics related to leadership, innovation, and achieving success against societal limitations. He is also the author of the forthcoming book Less Than One Percent, which shares his insights on breaking barriers, embracing adversity, and reaching new heights. Through these platforms, Dr. Tomlinson seeks to inspire and mentor the next generation of leaders, encouraging them to challenge boundaries and redefine success.
May 19, 2025
From building health care innovations to collaborating with teams to crafting creative solutions with human-centered design thinking, the NEXT Innovation Scholars program at the University of Cincinnati empowers a new generation of leaders and innovators.
May 13, 2025
The University of Cincinnati's College of Medicine is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of three remarkable students, who have been recognized with two of the university’s highest honors.
May 6, 2025
The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine celebrated the Class of 2025 at its annual Honors Day, recognizing graduates' achievements, resilience through the COVID-19 pandemic and commitment to compassionate, innovative care. Highlights included a 100% Step 2 pass rate, top residency matches and powerful moments of reflection and recognition.
Senior Director, Alumni Engagement, College of Medicine
