We are honored to welcome Diann Krywko, MD as the alumni speaker for the 2026 Spring Lyman Briggs College Commencement ceremony on May 3. A proud Briggs graduate, distinguished professor of emergency medicine, and nationally recognized leader in physician wellness, Dr. Krywko has dedicated her career to advancing high-acuity clinical care, academic excellence, and sustainable professional practice in academic emergency departments.
Dr. Krywko earned her bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1992 as a Lyman Briggs graduate and member of the Honors College. She went on to receive her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and completed her emergency medicine residency at the University of Michigan. Early in her career, she was drawn to caring for urban and underserved communities—an interest that continues to shape her work today.
She is now chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina, where she also serves as a tenured professor. In this role, Dr. Krywko leads a complex academic department focused on high-acuity patient care, education, research, and faculty development. Nationally recognized for her commitment to physician wellness and mentorship, she has helped integrate professional sustainability, leadership development, and support for future physicians into the core mission of emergency medicine.
An award-winning educator and mentor, Dr. Krywko has taught and inspired generations of medical students and residents. She is a frequent national speaker, an active leader in major medical professional organizations, and a respected voice on physician well-being and academic leadership. She recently co-edited the guidebook From Self to System. Being Well in Emergency Medicine, a publication of the American College of Emergency Physicians.
Through her leadership as chair, educator, mentor, and scholar, Dr. Krywko continues to shape the future of emergency medicine by cultivating resilient physicians, inclusive academic cultures, and excellence in patient care. Dr. Krywko exemplifies the impact Lyman Briggs alumni can have—combining scientific excellence with compassion, integrity, and service. We are delighted to welcome her back to campus to address the Class of 2026.