Medical College of Wisconsin Names Dr. Jon Lehrmann to Hold Kubly Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine

The Medical College of Wisconsin has named Jon Lehrmann, M.D., to hold the Charles E. Kubly Chair in Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine.

Dr. Lehrmann is Interim Chairman and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine.

The chair was established by Dr. Michael C. and Billie Kubly to honor the memory of their son, Charlie, who battled depression before committing suicide in 2003. The Kublys’ gift will continue to support research into the nature, effects and treatment of depression, particularly in young people.

Dr. Lehrmann, who is a Wisconsin native, joined the Medical College faculty in 2000 after completing both his M.D. and residency training at the Medical College. A board certified psychiatrist and a member of the American College of Psychiatrists, he was the director of the Medical College’s psychiatric training program, and has received multiple teaching awards.

Dr. Lehrmann is also a nationally recognized expert in treating mental illness in veterans, and has published multiple papers and book chapters focused on the challenges facing men and women with mental illness.

“Dr. Lehrmann is dedicated to both research and education,” said Dr. Kubly. “He is teaching the next generation of caregivers of our mentally ill, and will help ensure they get the very best care, while searching for an end to psychiatric disorders.”

Depressive disorders affect 10 percent of people in the United States. Suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15- to 24- year olds and in Wisconsin, is the 2nd leading cause of death in that age group. It is predicted that by 2020, depression and heart disease will be the two leading causes of death.

“A majority of patients who attempt suicide have mental illness,” said Dr. Lehrmann. “As caregivers and educators, we have a responsibility to learn more about these illnesses and redouble our efforts to identify the causes of mental illness, develop successful treatments, and prevent tragedies like the death of Charlie Kubly. This endowment will help me continue my efforts on all those fronts.”

The Charles E. Kubly Foundation was founded to raise awareness of the disease of depression, stamp out the stigma associated with it and help people to access resources in their communities.

“The Kublys’ commitment in the face of tragedy is remarkable, and we are profoundly grateful to them for their gift,” said John Raymond, Sr., M.D., CEO and President of The Medical College.

Dr. Kubly earned his M.D. degree in 1963 and completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery in 1969 at the Marquette University School of Medicine, which became The Medical College of Wisconsin in 1970.