Posted on Friday, October 15, 2021
To this day, Brian Cross '92, Director of Orthopedic Trauma and Associate Residency Program Director at Broward Health in Florida, recalls both small and big life lessons that he learned during his time at Westminster College - both in the classroom and on the field.
"Hard work, dedication, a positive attitude, and teamwork all serve me well today." Cross appreciates the support of Westminster coaches and faculty. One professor even returned to the lab after hours so Cross could complete an assignment after football practice. "I am incredibly grateful to Westminster coaches and faculty for allowing me to balance academics and athletics."
Following his education at Westminster, Cross completed medical school at the Ohio University College of Medicine (OUCOM) and began a residency in Orthopedic Surgery. He did a required rotation in trauma during his residency and became passionate for the subspecialty.
Cross moved on to a fellowship in Orthopedic Trauma Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh. He and his wife then moved to Ft. Lauderdale, where he started his own residency program. Cross earned a fellowship for Pediatric Orthopedic Trauma Surgery in Bern, Switzerland, where he spent six months studying.
Cross advises those interested in academic medicine to find balance early in life. "Work hard at everything, not just in the classroom. Play sports, play an instrument, read books for enjoyment, develop relationships, fall in love, meet friends for drinks, do all of it to the best of your ability. You have to love what you do in order to do it well. Medicine is a hard way to make a living, so you had better enjoy it if you want to be good at it."
Cross gives back to Westminster College students so they may enjoy their Westminster experience. He wants future students to enjoy the success that a Westminster education can provide.
Cross majored in biology during his time at Westminster.