Dr. Overturf was a distinguished physician, educator and nationally recognized researcher and leader in pediatric infectious disease. He served on national advisory committees with the AAP, chair of the FDA Vaccine and Related Biologics Advisory Committee, AAP Liaison Member of the American Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2000-2002; Member of the CDC Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee (CLIAC). He was a Fellow of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society (FPIDS) which honors individuals who have demonstrated professional excellence and made significant, sustained contributions to the field of pediatric infectious disease. He was a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Pediatric Infectious Disease and the CDC MMWR Advisory Committee. He was a frequent contributor to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Red Book® Atlas of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and served on the RED BOOK Committee from 1996-2012. He authored over 120 peer-reviewed articles and recognized for his dedication to advancing care and improving outcomes for young patients and left a lasting impact on the field.
Dr. Overturf grew up in Silver City, New Mexico. He graduated from Western New Mexico University then attended medical school at UNM, a member of the second graduating class of UNM School of Medicine. After residency and fellowship in Pediatric Infectious disease he served on faculty at LA County/USC Medical Center from 1980-1986, and UCLA, 1986-1991 before returning to UNM in 1991. He was a skilled teacher, having a profoundly positive influence on students, residents and fellows throughout his lengthy career.
During his time at UNM, Dr. Overturf was director of the Pediatric Residency Program, 1996-2001 and served as Division Chief of Pediatrics Infectious Disease division from 1991- 2007. He served as Medical Director of Infectious Diseases, Tricore Reference labs from 2000-2013 and continued to contribute his expertise to the Tricore Reference lab during his retirement. Dr. Overturf received numerous accolades and was a recipient of the UNM SOM Distinguished Alumni Award in 2003.
