Akujuo, Adanna, MD

Dr. Adanna Akujuo is a distinguished cardiac surgeon whose life journey from Nigeria to becoming a leader in minimally invasive heart surgery embodies the transformative power of determination and compassion. Currently serving as Vice Chair of Community Engagement and Wellness, Surgical Director of the Structural Heart Program, and Co-Director of the Department of Surgery Global Health Program at UVA Health, Dr. Akujuo brings world-class expertise in complex mitral valve repair and transcatheter procedures while maintaining deep roots in Nigerian healthcare through her work with the Vincent Obioma Ohaju Memorial Foundation where she serves at the Vice Chair of the Board .

Dr. Akujuo's path to cardiac surgery began in Nigeria, where a neighbor physician and a PBS documentary on heart transplants sparked her calling. After returning to the United States for her education—from York College through Temple University School of Medicine—she pursued rigorous training including cardiothoracic surgery residency at Montefiore Medical Center and a prestigious senior mitral fellowship at Mount Sinai. Her technical mastery spans the full spectrum of cardiac procedures, from minimally invasive valve repairs to complex aortic surgery.

What sets Dr. Akujuo apart is her philosophy of compassionate care—treating each patient as she would hope her own family would be treated. As a global surgeon regularly returning to Nigeria for medical missions, she bridges continents to ensure that advanced cardiac surgical techniques reach those who need them most. Her dedication to both cutting-edge innovation and community service makes her an inspiring voice for our symposium, demonstrating how excellence in cardiac surgery can transcend borders to save lives.