The dean will develop and execute the strategic vision for the medical school in alignment with the broader university mission. They will ensure curriculum excellence and innovation, integrate advancements in medical science and technology, and promote high standards in teaching, research, and clinical practice. They will foster strong interdisciplinary collaboration, oversee accreditation processes, improve academic programs through outcomes-based evaluation, and recruit and develop exceptional faculty.

The dean will champion a culture of research, discovery, and innovation. They will promote and support research activity across the medical school, secure external funding through grants and philanthropy that supports faculty led research that advances the knowledge in fields from biomedical science to education, ensure compliance with research standards and ethics, and encourage the translation of scientific findings into clinical applications that enhance health outcomes.

The dean will oversee the clinical learning environment including clinical partnerships with hospitals and health care systems, ensuring the highest quality of patient care delivered by faculty and trainees. They will strengthen the integration of clinical practice, education, and research; enhance the robust intellectual infrastructure which includes the Brain Health Center (spring 2026), South Carolina Center for Rural and Primary Health care, Center for Clinical and Translational Research, the Simulation and Interactive Learning Center, Clinical Skills Center, and numerous others, fostering interdisciplinarity and public engagement; address health care disparities; promote health equity; and work with clinical partners to ensure adequate training environments, resources, and patient-care opportunities.

The dean will oversee recruitment, admissions, and retention of students while fostering an inclusive, supportive, and equitable learning environment. The dean will address student concerns, ensure academic and personal support systems, promote wellness and professional development, and uphold standards of academic integrity and conduct to prepare physicians and other graduate students to be intellectually strong, resilient, and globally ready for their chosen health care profession.

The dean will serve as the representative of the medical school to university leadership, alumni, health care partners, donors, policymakers, and the broader community. They will build strategic relationships, advocate for the school at multiple levels, and engage the community to advance health education and address public health needs. They will develop and enhance healthcare programs that benefit communities throughout South Carolina and beyond.
The Opportunity