MINNEAPOLIS, January 17, 2008—M. Elizabeth Craig , M.D., former president of the Minnesota Medical Association, passed away January 13.

Craig was described in the Star Tribune as "a pioneer among women in medicine and leadership, becoming the first female president of the Methodist Hospital staff, the University of Minnesota Alumni Association. and the Minnesota Medical Association."

Besides serving as president of the MMA in 1985, Craig served on many other committees and posts of the association.

She also served as University of Minnesota regent, and as a member of a number of health care and civic boards. She was awarded the University of Minnesota's Outstanding Achievement Award.

Judy Shank, M.D., recalls that Craig"was a tiny woman, but she stood ramrod straight, and she communicated great determination," Shank said. "She had tremendous energy, and intelligence. She always had an irreverent twinkle in her eye." 

As a pediatrician, Craig advocated passionately for the health of children. She was an early advocate for important public health issues such as eating disorders and secondhand smoke. And she took a special interest in encouraging young women physicians, especially pediatricians, and put many on the path to successful careers.

"We are a healthier population today because of her," Shank said.

"I knew Peggy very well," said board chairman Michael B. Ainslie, M.D. "She was a mentor to a lot of us on the West Side, at Methodist Hospital. She maintained her practice while she was doing things for the MMA. She was very bright, and always positive, no matter what was happening. Her patients loved her. She will be missed."

A celebration of her life will be held Monday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. at Mizpah United Church of Christ, 412 5th Av. N., Hopkins.

Memorials may be sent to the M. Elizabeth Craig, M.D., Endowed Scholarship, Minnesota Medical Foundation, 200 Oak St. S.E. # 300, Mpls., 55455.