Message from the President
May 2, 2025
Dear Colleagues,
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance both the Divisions of Academic Affairs and Health Affairs, I’d like to share some brief updates.
Effective this summer, the South Texas Diabetes and Obesity Institute—renowned for its research on diabetes, obesity, and health disparities—and the Ph.D. in Human Genetics program will both transition from the School of Medicine to the College of Sciences. Under the divisional leadership of Dr. Luis Zayas, Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, bringing these complementary initiatives into the university’s core science hub will streamline shared research infrastructure, foster richer cross‑disciplinary collaboration, and expand opportunities for faculty and students alike.
As I shared in my initial announcement regarding Health Affairs, the new division will include the Schools of Medicine, Podiatric Medicine, and Optometry (launching 2027, pending accreditation) and UT Health Rio Grande Valley. Health Affairs will also encompass the School of Nursing and the College of Health Professions, both of which will transition from Academic Affairs.
We remain committed to building a stronger, more integrated approach to health, education and patient care — one that reflects the needs of our region and enhances opportunities for our students, faculty, and the communities we serve. Thank you for your continued dedication to this shared mission.
Sincerely,
Guy Bailey
President