Catherine Pesek-Bird, D.O.
Assistant Professor

After earning her D.O. from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993, Cathy completed a Chicago Osteopathic Medical System internship in 1994. She completed a residency in Internal Medicine at UIHC 1997, followed by a cardiology fellowship. Cathy joined our faculty as an Assistant Professor in July.

Dr. Pesek-Bird serves as attending on the echocardiography service, Chad's clinical interests focus on inpatient cardiology units, and outpatient clinics. Cathy also provides leadership on UI's High Risk Pregnancy Program and EECP.

Cathy's husband is David Bird.

Chad Williams, M.D.
Associate Professor

After receiving his M.D. from the University of Iowa, Chad Williams completed his residency at the University of Oklahoma, returning here for a fellowship in cardiology. In 1975, Chad joined the staff of Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines where he established their Internal Medicine Residency, first cardiac cath labs, and eleven outreach clinics. He also served as CEO for the Mid-lowa Heart Institute in Des Moines.

Chad's clinical interests focus on general cardiology and echocardiography. Along with echo responsibilities, he attends on inpatient units and outpatient clinic. Chad is working to develop closer ties with our former fellows and other Iowa physicians.

Chad and his wife, Karen, have four children: Lynne, Lisa, Mark and Matthew. The Williams also have four grandchildren — with a fifth grandchild on the way!

Cindy Penney named UI
Heart Care Administrator

Cindy Penney received her M.A. in Nursing Administration from UI and a BA in Nursing from Luther College. She has over 18 years experience at UIHC, including service as Nurse Manager for the CVICU and Intermediate Cardiology. She has a remarkable track record of patient care, leadership, and management in cardiology.

Carol Winniford named
Program Assistant for
Cardiovascular
Fellowship Training

After her B.S. in Nursing from Texas Woman's University in Dallas, Carol worked at Parkland Hospital in Dallas as a SICU/Trauma Nurse and in the Recovery Room. Carol moved to Iowa in 1987 with her husband Michael (yes, our own Dr. Michael Winniford, Physician-Director of Ul Heart Care). She concentrated on raising their two sons — Marc, a sophomore at Duke University, and Austin, a senior at West High.

As Program Assistant for the Cardiovascular Fellowship Training Program, Carol said she is delighted to have the opportunity to interact with fellows and staff.