Dear Physicians in Training,
Being Provost of AUC for the past eight years has been nothing short of incredible. When I joined this school in 2013, it was out of a deep connection I made with the students and this university’s commitment to prepare individuals from all backgrounds to become extraordinary, empathetic physicians. There are so many proud moments, more than I can name, and the shared experiences of navigating a record-breaking hurricane, temporary relocation, and global pandemic together.
And so, it is bittersweet that I write today that I will be leaving AUC and stepping into the role of dean at our affiliate institution, Ross University School of Medicine. I will miss our island community dearly but am confident that you will be in great hands as Pedro Delgado, MD assumes the role of acting dean for AUC.
Dr. Delgado joined AUC in 2019 and has made a tremendous impact as senior associate dean. Prior to AUC, Dr. Delgado was at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) where he served as the Marie Wilson Howells professor and chair of the Department of Psychiatry and director of the Psychiatric Research Institute in the College of Medicine. He has the respect and support of your faculty, deans and administration, all of whom are committed to advancing your academic journey.
Serving as your provost has been an incredibly fulfilling and memorable experience for me. AUC has had many significant accomplishments that reflect our confidence and commitment to your future career as a medical doctor. I am especially proud of your academic performance, given the disruption of a global pandemic. Your hard work and dedication as future physicians will continue to pay off. Over the past two years, a record level of residency attainment has been achieved, we launched a new track in the UK, and you successfully transitioned to online education and back to campuses and clinicals.
I will be partnering closely with Dr. Delgado not only during his transition to acting dean but also as a colleague on the Adtalem medical school leadership team and will be cheering you on from the sidelines. I wish you all great success and wellness.
Best Wishes,
Heidi Chumley, MD, MBA