Catherine Barden, M.D.

Contributions to STEMM

As a neuroanesthesiologist, Dr. Barden “cares for patients undergoing surgery on the brain and spine during the entire peri-operative period.” In addition to her clinical responsibilities, “I have the privilege to teach residents, medical students, and fellows, in and out of the operating rooms,” Dr. Barden said.

Early Influences

Dr. Barden was impacted by meaningful experiences in medicine throughout her childhood. “At age 5, my pediatricians, Drs. Hadden and Harlow, carved out an extra 20 minutes from a busy clinic day to show me a hematoxylin and eosin stain of my peripheral blood sample,” she said. “That was absolute magic, and I insisted upon it for each subsequent blood draw! It was at that moment I was intrigued and inspired to become a physician.”

“In third grade, my science teacher introduced the concept of a hypothesis, and lit my drive to win the school science fair – which I did.”

Later on, Dr. Barden said, “in college, I found the calling for a career in academics. The multiple faculty who took the time and emotional energy to invest in my growth was truly inspirational, and I have never looked back since then.”

The UT Southwestern Difference

“Mentorship continually invigorates my passion.”

Dr. Barden said of her role as an educator, “I was inspired to pursue a career in academic medicine by my lifelong mentors, and I see my role as a way to repay my debt to each of them. My relationships with colleagues, patients, and learners challenge me to evolve into a better physician, coach, and leader.”