September 2026 Message from the Senior Vice President, Provost, and Chief Academic Officer, UTMB

Dear Colleagues,

With the start of a new academic year and 2026 commencements only recently completed, we are in the midst of a very busy season.

Congratulations to the 2026 graduates and the faculty who guided them along their journeys, and kudos to everyone who has helped welcome new and returning students for the 2026-27 academic year. It is reassuring to know that our future healthcare professionals, public health practitioners, and research scientists are learning and training with such brilliant and dedicated faculty.

I continue to be impressed by your hard work and achievements – and there is no better time to celebrate the amazing UTMB faculty community. The Third Annual Faculty Recognition Reception will be held Thursday, Sept. 10, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Levin Hall Dining Room.

We will honor the remarkable individuals selected for the 2026 Lifetime Achievement, Faculty Excellence, and Innovation Awards, while also recognizing the accomplishments of all faculty in FY26. These include new grants and publications in top journals, leadership roles at national and international arenas, professional accolades, and more. Just as importantly, it is an opportunity to connect with your colleagues over your shared successes.

Please view the special video invitation highlighting the event. I appreciate all you do to elevate the reputation of UTMB, and I enthusiastically encourage all faculty members to join us!

Sincerely yours,

Susan Chubinskaya, PhD, MS
Senior Vice President, Provost, and
Chief Academic Officer of the University of Texas Medical Branch
Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, John Sealy School of Medicine
Thomas N. and Gleaves T. James Distinguished Chair