Whether it was as a child exploring the adventures of Treasure Island or as a medical professional seeking to remain abreast of current events, the life of Dr. Stephen Lewis was exemplified by a sincere appreciation for, and the benefits gained from, reading.

In addition to his love for reading, Steve’s personal life included a devoted marriage of 15 years to Cheryl Carter Lewis. Cheryl’s parents, Dr. Charles and Margaret Carter, and her brother, Terry Carter, embraced Steve as one of their own family. Professionally, his career included serving as a practicing physician, hospital consultant, world-wide lecturer and Chief Medical Officer for CareFusion.

The fact that he is well thought of is no surprise as he lived life with a respect and love for others as well as with a desire to help them achieve their personal best. His personal belief in the value of reading is evidenced by his own words

“the most important thing one can do for children is to read to them every day. It is more important than any school we can send them to or any other developmental need we can provide for them, beyond food clothing and shelter, I suppose!”

The Stephen R. Lewis, M.D., Presidential Chair was established by Reading Legacies in April of 2011 to honor Steve’s life and legacy through the perpetuation of his belief in the importance of this experience for all children.

Dr. Stephen R. Lewis, M.D. – Professional Biography

Dr. Steve Lewis was Chief Medical Officer for CareFusion – a global medical technology corporation focused on developing technologies to improve patient outcomes through medication accuracy and error reduction (CareFusion has since been acquired by BD). He previously served in a similar role as Senior Vice President of the Center for Safety and Clinical Excellence for Cardinal Health. Steve joined Cardinal Health following seven years at VHA Southeast, where he most recently was Vice President of Medical Affairs.

He began his medical career as a practitioner in general internal medicine and has held positions of increasing responsibility within the medical data and clinical information systems industry, including Vice President and Principal for a hospital clinical information system and revenue management company. Steve earned his bachelor’s degree from Duke University and medical degree from the University of South Florida, there he also completed his internship in Medicine and residency in Internal Medicine. He was board certified in Internal Medicine and was a member of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Physician Executives.