Featured Anesthesiology Members

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: May 2022

Melissa Milbrandt is the business manager for the Division of Pediatric Anesthesiology and the Division of Perioperative Medicine. She’s been with the department for three great years. Melissa is a St. Louis native and completed her undergraduate degree at WashU. After completing an administrative fellowship in Denver following graduate school, she decided to return home to WashU and join the department of Anesthesiology.

In her current role, Melissa is responsible for providing business and operational leadership for her divisions, including strategic planning and financial and operations management, and supporting the development of people, programs, and initiatives. Melissa feels very lucky to work with outstanding clinicians and staff in both divisions and throughout the department of Anesthesiology. She loves to spend time with her family and friends in her free time, travel, and be active, especially to be out of doors with her Brittany Spaniel, Tillie.

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: December 2024

Ben is an intern anesthesiology resident in the Department of Anesthesiology at WashU Medicine. A Minnesota native, he grew up playing baseball and video games. Ben completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota and earned his MD from Rosalind Franklin University.

An avid fitness enthusiast, Ben stays active through weightlifting, rock climbing, and running around Forest Park.

Outside of work, he enjoys listening to live music, hunting for hidden treasures at thrift stores and estate sales, and spending time with his cat, Carl. Fun fact: Ben was in the top 0.01% of Jim Croce listeners in 2024.

Department of Anesthesiology – APP of the Quarter: January 2024

Sean Miller has been working in medicine for the past 18 years. He began working as a Paramedic for both rural and suburban EMS districts. He spent two years of his EMS career with a focus on critical care pediatric transport with St. Louis Children’s Hospital. He later entered St. Louis University’s Physician Assistant Program where he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree in 2014.

He first gained experience as a PA in primary care outpatient medicine but later transitioned to the ER. He completed an ER fellowship and remained with the ER for additional training. After completing his ER training, he entered Urgent Care medicine where he has spent the bulk of his career. Most recently, Sean’s drive for professional growth allowed him to begin work at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis in the Cardiothoracic ICU. When not working at WashU he returns to SLU as an Adjunct Faculty member providing lectures in EKG analysis while co-managing the orthopedic, cardiac, and GU/Renal modules. In 2023, he began operating Rapid Med Ed, LLC, which is a St. Louis-based training organization for all AHA courses and much more. He and his wife have 3 growing boys ages 10, 8, and 6. They all enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach for much-needed relaxation. Fun fact, he has enjoyed Martial Arts for over 25 years and currently holds a 4th degree black belt!

Sean was named Q4 2023 APP of the Quarter!

His nominator says, “Sean undeniably deserves the APP of the quarter award for his relentless commitment to personal growth and improvement. He consistently strives to enhance his skills and knowledge, demonstrating a remarkable dedication to self-betterment. Sean’s infectious smile has become a symbol of positivity within the group, uplifting everyone around him. Beyond his professional achievements, it’s his warm and approachable demeanor that sets him apart. In any situation, Sean brings a genuine sense of warmth that fosters a collaborative and supportive environment. His ability to radiate positivity and create a welcoming atmosphere is truly commendable, making him not only an exceptional friend but also a source of inspiration for others.”

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: April 2025

Sean has spent the past 18 years working in medicine. He began as a paramedic, including two years focused on critical care pediatric transport at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. In 2014, he earned his Master of Medical Science (MMS) degree from the St. Louis University Physician Assistant Program. After gaining primary care experience, he transitioned to emergency medicine, completed an APP fellowship, and spent most of his PA career in urgent care.

In 2023, Sean joined WashU Medicine, working in the Cardiothoracic ICU. Alongside his clinical work, he serves as an adjunct faculty member at SLU, teaching EKG analysis and other medical topics. He also operates Rapid Med Ed, LLC, a St. Louis-based training organization offering AHA provider courses and CPR/First Aid.

Sean and his wife have three sons (ages 11, 9, and 7), and they enjoy playing UNO and traveling to the beach. A martial arts enthusiast for over 25 years, Sean holds a 4th-degree black belt.

Department of Anesthesiology Featured Member: April 2020

Allison is a proud Texan and graduate of University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. She then traveled to St. Louis for anesthesiology residency where she has remained happily since 2012. She served as a Chief Resident in 2015-2016 and completed Obstetric Anesthesia Fellowship in 2016-2017. She has served as a faculty member primarily working in Obstetric Anesthesia as well as the General Division in Parkview Tower. She is extremely excited for her new role as Associate Program Director of the residency. Her goal in this position is to improve wellness education and give back to the program that gave her unparalleled training. Outside of work, she enjoys becoming a wine connoisseur and traveling internationally with friends and family.