ASNR Member Spotlight: Dr. Judith Gadde
Dr. Judith Gadde is a pediatric neuroradiologist at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, where she also serves as the Director of Academic Innovation for the Department of Medical Imaging. She also has several roles at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, including Chair of the Curriculum Review Subcommittee.
Dr. Gadde was nominated by Dr. Charlotte Taylor for the Member Spotlight for “Dr. Gadde is a well-recognized name in the radiology education world, serving as the president of AMSER and board of directors of the AAR. She has served on multiple ASNR committees, including serving as Chair of the YPS Committee. She is a mentor to so many medical students, residents, and fellows and deserves to be recognized as an important member of the ASNR.”
How did you become interested in neuroradiology?
I became interested in radiology even before medical school, after hearing about the field from a family friend. As soon as I started my M1 year, I began shadowing in radiology whenever I could. During my M2 year, I particularly enjoyed our Neuroscience module, which sparked a deeper interest in the brain and nervous system.
My first radiology research project, focused on the anatomy and pathology of the temporal bone, was far beyond my clinical understanding at the time, but I loved the challenge and was fascinated by the complexity of the region. I had the opportunity to present this project at RSNA as a medical student, which was both exciting and intimidating. During residency, I found my neuroradiology rotations especially rewarding and ultimately fell in love with pediatric neuroradiology during my R2 year.
Why did you join ASNR?
I joined ASNR to deepen my knowledge of neuroradiology, contribute to the advancement of the field, and connect with colleagues who share a passion for excellence in patient care, research, and education. Being part of this community has offered invaluable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and professional growth.
How has your life experiences shaped your approach to your career?
Growing up in a small town in the Appalachian Mountains, I developed an early appreciation for community, resilience, and the impact of accessible healthcare. My path through medicine has been shaped by a strong desire to open doors for others, just as mentors have done for me. These experiences have instilled in me a deep commitment to education, mentorship, and collaboration. They’ve also taught me the importance of empathy and adaptability, qualities I carry with me in my clinical work, academic pursuits, and professional relationships.
Who/what has inspired you?
I have been inspired by many people and experiences throughout my career. My family instilled in me the values of persistence, humility, and service—principles that continue to shape how I approach my work. I’ve also been fortunate to learn from a broad community of mentors, colleagues, and peers who model a deep commitment to education and collaboration. Most of all, I am inspired by the learners I work with. Their curiosity, drive, and openness to growth continually fuel my passion for education and remind me of the impact we can have through teaching and mentorship.
Anything else to share?
Professional society involvement has been a cornerstone of my career growth and my way of giving back to the field. I have been fortunate to serve in leadership roles across several organizations, including as former President of AMSER (Alliance of Medical Student Educators in Radiology), a current board member of the Association of Academic Radiology (AAR), and Chair of the ASNR Young Professional Section (YPS). These roles have allowed me to advocate for education-focused initiatives, build meaningful collaborations, and support the next generation of radiologists.
Mentorship is something I care deeply about. I’ve benefited from mentors who encouraged me at critical points in my training, and I try to offer that same support to others, especially those who may be navigating unfamiliar territory or considering paths they hadn’t seen modeled before. I see mentorship not just as guidance, but as sponsorship: helping trainees find their voice, make connections, and gain access to opportunities that align with their goals. Watching them grow and thrive is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
