At today’s Town Hall meeting, I announced that my last day to serve as UTMB’s president will be August 31, 2019. Effective September 1, I will join the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston as its President and Chief Executive Officer. The University of Texas System will soon name an interim president to lead UTMB while the national search for a new president progresses.

I want to assure you that the university remains in the highly capable hands of Executive Vice Presidents Dr. Charles Mouton and Dr. Tim Harlin; Chief Financial Officer Cheryl Sadro; Deans Dr. David Brown, Dr. Deborah Jones and Dr. David Niesel; and Senior Vice Presidents Carrie King, Becky Korenek and Dr. Ben Raimer. In addition, UT System Chancellor J.B. Milliken and Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs ad interim Amy Shaw Thomas have pledged their assistance and support for UTMB during this transition period.

Serving as your president for the past 12 years has been an extraordinary privilege.  During phases of great opportunity as well as cycles of significant challenge, UTMB has continued to grow and prosper because of the dedication and commitment of this UTMB family. I am incredibly proud of this institution, its people, its remarkable history and the impressive slate of achievements you’ve made possible during my tenure here.

UTMB is one of the most well-positioned academic health institutions in the country in terms of its mission, people, programs and demonstrated strength to survive and thrive. You have been and will continue to be the foundation of this organization’s impact and success. What started as a clever tag line—working together to work wonders—now captures the indelible spirit of this university and all who make it great. You truly have worked wonders at UTMB, and I am confident you’ll continue to help shape the future of academic health care in all three mission areas: education, patient care and research.

I will always cherish my time working with you to advance this beloved organization. Thank you for challenging and supporting me during these past dozen years and know that you will always have my strong support and encouragement.

Dr. David L. Callender
President