During Hispanic Heritage Month, John Sealy School of Medicine recognizes the contributions of Hispanic alumni and faculty by sharing stories of individuals whose work has left a lasting impact on the school and the communities it serves. While many others have played important roles, these profiles highlight notable examples throughout the school's history.
Dr. Daniel Saenz Class of 1921
In 1921, Dr. Daniel Saenz became the first Hispanic graduate of John Sealy School of Medicine. His graduation came at a time when medical education was largely inaccessible to many minority groups. Although detailed records of Dr. Saenz's career are limited, his presence in the early class marked an important milestone for diversity at the school.
Dr. Héctor P. García Class of 1940
In 1940, Dr. Héctor P. García earned his medical degree from the John Sealy School of Medicine, becoming one of the first Mexican American graduates of the program. Born in Mexico and raised in South Texas, he pursued medicine during a time of widespread discrimination and limited opportunities for Latino students. After serving as a combat surgeon in World War II, he founded the American GI Forum in 1948 to advocate for the rights of Mexican American veterans. His work later expanded to national issues of education, healthcare, and civil rights, establishing him as a leading voice for equity in postwar America.
Dr. Norma A. Pérez Assistant Dean and Faculty, John Sealy School of Medicine
Dr. Norma A. Pérez currently serves as Assistant Dean for Educational Affairs at John Sealy School of Medicine and holds a joint appointment as Associate Professor of Research at both the John Sealy School of Medicine and the School of Public and Population Health. After earning her medical degree and completing residency training in Mexico, she pursued a Doctor of Public Health degree in International and Family Health at the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, further solidifying her commitment to public health and medical education.
At UTMB, Dr. Pérez created and directs the Bilingual Health Scholarly Concentration, a program designed to strengthen medical students' Spanish-language proficiency to better serve Hispanic communities. Her online course, Clinical Conversational Spanish for Healthcare Professionals©, will be piloted across all UT System medical schools as a model for online medical Spanish instruction and certification. She also serves as principal investigator for the $2.7 million Center of Excellence for Professional Advancement and Research, which provides resources and professional advancement opportunities for pre-medical students, medical students, and junior faculty. Her leadership exemplifies the institution's enduring commitment to equitable healthcare access.
Continuing the Legacy
Hispanic alumni and faculty have shaped John Sealy School of Medicine for nearly a century. Their clinical excellence, community advocacy, educational leadership, and research contributions have enriched the school's mission. Their legacies continue to inspire current and future generations of students and faculty dedicated to advancing healthcare for all communities.
Image: Dr. Daniel Saenz, Class of 1921- source: “Truman G. Blocker, Jr. History of Medicine Collections and University Archives, Moody Medical Library, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston”
Image: Dr. Héctor P. García, Class of 1940 - source “Truman G. Blocker, Jr. History of Medicine Collections and University Archives, Moody Medical Library, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston”
Image: Dr. Norma A. Pérez, Assistant Dean and Faculty, John Sealy School of Medicine - source: UTMB JSSOM files