Shriners Children’s Shreveport Physician Receives Prestigious Honor

Shriners Children’s Shreveport rheumatologist Thomas A. Pressly III, M.D., has been named a Master of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) – the highest honor bestowed by the organization.

The Master designation recognizes ACR members age 65 or older who have made outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology through research, education and patient care. Dr. Pressly was one of just 16 new Masters to be honored by the ACR during their annual national conference.

In receiving the award, Dr. Pressly acknowledged the support of his family, professors and numerous rheumatologists who have supported him throughout his career. In particular, he recognized “the most important people in my professional life – my patients – who have both inspired me and challenged me to do my best to help improve their lives.”

Dr. Pressly moved to Shreveport in 1988, initially to practice adult rheumatology. In 1992, he began volunteering at Shriners Children’s Shreveport, where he took special interest in caring for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. As part of his dedication to supporting families in need, Dr. Pressly and his wife, Tracy, also founded Children and Arthritis, a nonprofit organization designed to help families navigate the complexities of rheumatic conditions.

Through Children and Arthritis, Dr. Pressly founded the Jambalaya Jubilee, an annual retreat for families of children with arthritis. Now in its 34th year of operation, the weekend event brings together entire families to discuss concerns and gain insights from experts with a focus on education, connection and enjoyment.

In 2022, Dr. Pressly served as chair of the Children and Arthritis James T. Cassidy Conference in Pediatric Rheumatology. Named in honor of James Cassidy, M.D., a pioneer in pediatric rheumatology, the conference brought together experts from across the country to explore the latest in the diagnosis, management and treatment of patients with rheumatic and autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Pressly has published articles on a variety of rheumatic conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus and osteogenesis imperfecta, as well as studies on family retreats as a comprehensive intervention for children and their families. He has been recognized by numerous civic and medical organizations for his dedication to patient care and advocacy for children living with rheumatic conditions. In 2008, Shriners Children’s Shreveport honored Dr. Pressly with its inaugural Shining Star Award for his dedication to the families and mission of Shriners Children’s.

“Since joining Shriners Children’s Shreveport over 30 years ago, Dr. Pressly has made an immeasurable impact on the lives of patients and families at our facility and throughout our community,” said Susan Bryant, clinic administrator. “We are proud to celebrate his well-deserved honor as a Master of the American College of Rheumatology.”

Dr. Pressly earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He completed an internship and residency in internal medicine in 1986 and a fellowship in immunology and rheumatology in 1988 at the University of Missouri – Columbia Hospital and Clinics.