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Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine

Founders' Council

Docter holding heart with Texas icon contained within

Overview

The Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine Founders’ Council is comprised of individuals, foundations and corporate representatives who have contributed a single gift of $1 million or more, and ambassadors who are committed to advancing the Fertitta College of Medicine’s stated educational mission and goals: Developing physicians focused on improving health care in underserved communities in Houston and throughout Texas.

Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine Building with UH Seal

Purpose & Mission

As the Fertitta College of Medicine continues to grow and establish itself as an innovative leader in medical education in Houston, Texas and beyond, the role of the Founders’ Council is more critical than ever. Members serve as key advisors to the Dean and ambassadors who further the College’s mission by engaging the community, securing needed resources and working collectively to elevate the national profile and recognition of the College as an ideal destination for exceptionally qualified faculty and students aligned with its mission. Members commit to staying informed on strategic priorities of the College, supporting ongoing fundraising efforts, and opening doors within their networks and connections.

The Council’s efforts will be consistent with the Fertitta College of Medicine mission and goals as well as Liaison Committee on Medical Education accreditation standards, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation standards and other applicable guidelines and standards.

Membership & Engagement

Membership

  • Founding Members: Individuals and corporations or foundations who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the launch of the Fertitta College of Medicine with a single contribution of $1 million or more.
  • Advisor Members: Champions of the College who serve as thought leaders and connectors for relevant goals and initiatives.

 

Member Engagement

  • Full Council Meetings: The Founders’ Council hosts two in-person meetings a year, in late Summer or Fall and Spring.
  • Committees or Task Forces: Members may also be asked to join a strategic committee or task force focused on providing expertise or recommendations to inform a high priority initiative for the College.
  • Communications: Members receive relevant Fertitta College of Medicine newsletters and exclusive updates and news from the Dean on a regular basis, which best positions them to serve as effective ambassadors for the College within their communities and networks.
  • Special Event Invitations and Programming: Members are invited to select programming and one-of-kind experiences that provide an exclusive or intimate look at the College.

Founding Members

The Honorable Durga (M.S. ’69, Ph.D. ’74) and Mrs. Sushila Agrawal

Bank of America Corporation
Representative: Rick C. Jaramillo, Market Executive

Health Care Service Corporation, Blue Cross Blue Shield
Representative: Mark Chassay, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer

Michael and Rebecca Cemo Foundation

The Cullen Foundation
Representative: Scott W. Wise, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer

Cullen Trust for Health Care
Representative: Cullen Geiselman Muse, Chair

Episcopal Health Foundation
Representative: Ann Barnes, President

Paige Fertitta

Tilman J. Fertitta

David Alan (’09) and Hailey Higgins

Nick R. (’73, O.D. ’76) and Lisa K. Holdeman

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation
Representative: Trevor Burt (Ph.D. ’15), Chief Education Officer and Vice President, System Education

Humana, Inc.
Representative: James Rechtin, President and Chief Executive Officer

Dale (’70) and Nancy Lowe

MD Anderson Foundation
Representative: James W. Crownover, President

The Honorable Jack B. (’77) and Mrs. Debbie Moore (’78)

The John M. O’Quinn Foundation
Representative: Robert C. Wilson III, President