Karen Kowalske, M.D.
Professor
Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

First UTSW job: Physician and Assistant Professor.

Best part about my job: I love the diverse patient populations we serve and the complexity of conditions we witness every day. I love to both teach and learn from others.

How co-workers describe me: Knowledgeable and efficient.

Best UTSW memories: The best memories come every day – from patient interactions, helping someone in their recovery after injury or illness, and all the quality interactions with faculty. Another great moment was watching my son graduate from UT Southwestern Medical School this year.

My proudest UTSW accomplishments: Receiving the Patricia and William L. Watson Jr., M.D. Award for Excellence in Clinical Medicine in 2023 and starting a program at Parkland Memorial Hospital to provide prosthetics for individuals with amputations.

I’m really good at: I am “relatively good” at a lot of things and am willing to work diligently to get things done. Some might say I’m good at working hard and not complaining.

Hobbies: I’m a certified Master Naturalist and serve as a volunteer to maintain and improve local green spaces. I love to travel, hike, and play pickleball.

Surprising fact: I’m completely incapable of learning how to line dance.

Final note: UT Southwestern is a great place to work. It is a pleasure to be part of a team of brilliant, caring physicians who work together for the best possible outcomes for our patients.