SAEM mourns the loss of our former President Amy H. Kaji, MD, PhD, a compassionate leader, cherished colleague, and beloved friend. Dr. Kaji passed away on August 1, 2024 at the age of 56. She touched countless lives through her unwavering dedication to emergency medicine and her deep commitment to SAEM. 

At the time of her passing, Dr. Kaji was Senior Advisor for Academic Development at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center and a Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. SAEM extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, trainees, colleagues, and all those who had the privilege of working with and learning from her.

Dr. Kaji's medical career was marked by exceptional brilliance and dedication. A Harvard College graduate, she earned her medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College. Her extensive training included an emergency medicine residency and research/disaster medicine fellowship at Harbor-UCLA, where she also completed an MPH and a doctorate in epidemiology from UCLA School of Public Health. 

Dr. Kaji authored hundreds of published works and was a methodological and statistical editor for Annals of Emergency Medicine and JAMA Surgery. In addition, she edited the 9th edition of Rosen's Emergency Medicine and co-authored the first edition of the study guide, Emergency Medicine Board Review. Her three-book series, The Kaji Review, remains a valuable educational resource for emergency medicine students, residents, and attending physicians.

A renowned and respected educator, Dr. Kaji was the recipient of the ACEP National Faculty Teaching Award and the UCLA Distinguished Lecturer Award.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Kaji was a cornerstone of SAEM, exemplifying selflessness and dedication throughout her 22 years as a member. In addition to chairing several committees, Dr. Kaji was a devoted member of the SAEM Foundation Board of Trustees from 2014 to 2023 and served on the SAEM Board of Directors from 2013 to 2023. As the 2021-2022 Board President, she guided the organization with vision and resilience through the challenges of the post-COVID world, helping to shape its future and strengthen its mission. 

Dr. Kaji’s unwavering belief in the power of collaboration and teamwork for the greater good was evident in every aspect of her life. Whether mentoring young physicians, chairing committees, leading SAEM, or providing care during the pandemic, she fostered a spirit of unity and cooperation, always prioritizing the recognition and promotion of others over herself. Her humility and modesty were hallmarks of her character, and she touched countless lives through her kindness.  

Dr. Kaji’s beautiful soul, warm smile, and enormous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her. As we remember Dr. Kaji, we find solace in her own words, which encapsulate her character and the legacy she leaves behind: “[At the end of my career] I would like to be remembered as being a thoughtful, dedicated emergency physician, teacher, and team player.”

Amy, you will be remembered for all this and so much more. Your legacy is woven into the fabric of our organization and the hearts of all fortunate enough to have known you. Rest in peace.

SAEM Foundation is accepting donations to support a special award in honor of Dr. Kaji. Donations can be made at saem.org/donate.