Welcome to the University of Texas Medical Branch! It is my honor to serve UTMB's Academic Enterprise as Provost ad interim, as well as Senior Vice President and Dean of the UTMB School of Nursing.

UTMB is a world-class institution with the distinction of being the first academic medical center in Texas. For more than 130 years, we have trained health care professionals and biomedical scientists whose contributions have improved health here in Texas and beyond. Throughout this history, our institution has shown great resilience, growing and strengthening to overcome the challenges we have faced. Today, UTMB continues to lead in providing cutting edge and high-impact education, research, and clinical care.

The tremendous dedication of our leaders, faculty, and staff helps to define the success of UTMB’s high-caliber academic programs. We are committed to preparing trainees from across health science disciplines to fulfill critical needs in our work force, meeting the highest standards of care. In each of our five schools, students develop the knowledge, experience, and skills they need to embark upon fulfilling, impactful careers.

I am excited that UTMB is the academic home of such outstanding students, faculty, and staff, all of whom are united in our commitment to advance health care. It is my goal for your experience at UTMB to be meaningful for you and for all those whose lives you will touch throughout your career. I know you will achieve great things, and it is a privilege to support you along this journey.

Sincerely yours,

Deborah J. Jones, PhD, MSN, RN, FAAN
Provost ad interim
Senior Vice President and Dean, UTMB School of Nursing
Rebecca Sealy Distinguished Centennial Chair