Rebecca R. Hennessy, MD

I grew up in Traverse City, Michigan–Home of the National Cherry Festival. In high school, I went to Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan and majored in academics and vocal performance. It was a boarding high school and we had many coffeehouses and performances which further solidified my love of music.

I was raised as a Michigan Wolverine football fan (Dad played football in college), but graduated with a degree in biology, molecular biology and biotechnology as a Michigan State University Spartan. At MSU, I worked as a resident assistant in the dorms, I was a calculus tutor, and worked in a wheat genetics lab and a laser lab. I went to every football game for many years and played pickup and intermural ice hockey.  

My family is my greatest priority. I met and married my medical school sweetheart and we now have two beautiful daughters. I am the older-middle child of four. I grew up in northern Michigan spending much of my time skiing, boating or working in my garden. My oldest and youngest siblings are professional singers and my younger brother works as an industrial athletic trainer. My parents are medical professionals and my Dad is still practicing in Traverse City. 

I enjoy gardening, boating, cooking, quilting, singing, and sports.

I’d love to travel to Europe with my husband. I have not been to Spain and would love to go. I have also met colleagues while working as a Mayo Clinic Research Fellow who live in Japan and have invited us to come visit and I would love to take that opportunity someday. 

I knew I wanted to be a physician my last year of college when working in a lab. Although I loved contributing to the medical field through research, I determined that I’d rather have direct patient care. 

My favorite memory is meeting my husband while sitting in the back of the room during psychology/ethics. I knew very quickly how compatible we were and that I wanted to keep him in my life. Best decision I’ve ever made!

I love the continuity of care that being a family doctor provides. I love getting to know entire families and helping them through various stages, challenges and goals/milestones. I want them to live their best lives. 

I was attracted to Schneck when my husband and I were able to have last minute interviews over our five-day break during the Summer of 2018.  Many physicians and their families, including many with small children, came for a meet and greet last minute and all had a great time together. We knew then that we wanted a work environment with people who worked collaboratively and were able to have a great time together both during and after work. Everyone communicated well and I think that this is key for great patient care.