Van Metre Companies Help Advance Pediatric Cardiology

Children’s National installed Charles I. Berul, MD, as the inaugural Van Metre Companies Professor of Cardiology on March 24. As division chief and co-director of the Children’s National Heart Institute, Dr. Berul and his team improve outcomes for children with congenital heart disease through early detection, complex surgeries, and devices customized for small patients. “This professorship is an honor,” Dr. Berul said. “It will help my team and me by pushing the envelope of pediatric cardiology research and innovation. It allows me to say ‘yes’ when our cardiologists and team members propose new ideas that may not yet be ready for prime time, but have exciting potential.” Dr. Berul’s research goal is miniaturization of pacemakers for children with heart rhythm abnormalities. His team is more broadly focused on innovative cardiac device development and clinical and population health for children with heart disease. Dr. Berul’s clinical expertise in heart rhythm disorders has tripled the number of electrophysiology procedures in the catheterization laboratory. The professorship was made possible by the Van Metre Companies, which has provided top quality homes and investment properties to clients since its founding in 1955. Longtime supporters of Children’s National, the Van Metre Companies and its employees host the annual Van Metre 5-Mile Run, which celebrated its 23rd race in March. “We are honored that the Van Metre Companies name will be forever associated with Children’s National,” said Mark Batshaw, MD, physician-in-chief and Fight for Children Chair of Academic Medicine. “Their gift will last as long as the hospital lasts -- and let me assure you, we will always be here for children.”