KUMC

This week I announced that Glen Cox, MD, MBA, MHSA, is taking on new responsibilities as Interim Chair of the Department of Health Policy and Management and as the Director of the new Institute of Community and Public Health. 

The core elements of Public Health are Biostatistics, Health Policy and Management, Epidemiology, Environmental and Occupational Health, Social and Behavioral Health, and Leadership.  Our campuses in Kansas City, Wichita and Lawrence have very strong programs in many of these areas. In the near future, we intend to offer a Master's in Biostatistics and doctorates in several new public health areas. My hope is that under Dr. Cox's direction, we will work with all of the key stakeholders throughout the region and state to pave the way for a School of Public Health at the University of Kansas. 

I know you all join me in wishing Dr. Cox the best in these exciting endeavors.

Jay Montgomery, MD, carried the School of Medicine banner during Sunday's commencement ceremony. As part of the University's graduation tradition, the distinction of banner carrier is awarded to one student from each school who exemplifies academic excellence.

Education

KUMC faculty members Allan Fleming, Michael Moncure and Martha Barnard received the prestigious Chancellor's Award for Outstanding Classroom Teaching. Read More from The Oread.

Faculty members and students in the SON, SOAH, and the SOM received awards at graduation. See the full list.

U.S. News and World Report ranks the KU Medical Center's rural health program 14th in the nation among public universities. Read More.

Research

The Johnson County Commission will vote on June 5 whether to place a one-eighth cent sales tax on the November ballot to fund the Johnson County Education Research Triangle. Learn More.

Community

Boi, a boy from Mali, received life-changing surgery from our doctors and nurses at The University of Kansas Hospital, where a large facial tumor was removed. Read more from NBC Action News.

Other Items of Interest

The KU Endowment Association's Advancement Board met on May 9 to work on strategic planning for the future. Read more from the Lawrence Journal-World.

A new encryption requirement for mobile PCs is now in place. Read More.

After 63 years, surgeon Jesse Battenfeld's remains will return to Kansas City. A memorial service will take place this Saturday. Read more from the Kansas City Star.

Kudos

The Kemper Museum, in collaboration with KUMC's Center for Child Health and Development, is up for a national award for their ArtReach program. Read More.

Dr. Roy Jensen recently received the Big Thinker Award from KansasBio. Congratulations to Dr. Jensen on this distinction.