I am proud and humbled to be entrusted with the stewardship of the Wayne State University School of Medicine, especially in these challenging times.

Your school’s reputation for educating and graduating excellent caring physicians and medical researchers is well known across the nation. Your mission of caring for the community and an underserved population suffering health disparities is a righteous one. I will fully support and work with you to enhance both.

Right now, the COVID-19 pandemic is testing all of us in one way or another. I have been impressed and proud to learn of your many efforts – both on the front lines in our affiliated hospitals and health care centers, and in the numerous volunteer efforts to assist those front line health care professionals and the community at large. I would expect nothing less based on everything I know and have learned about the commitment and heart of the people of this School of Medicine.

I am now in Detroit and at the office. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to advance our mission in the days and weeks to come. For now, you should know that I enjoy the challenge of solving problems, particularly when those solutions make a difference in the lives of those we serve. The Wayne State University School of Medicine is famous for outstanding medical and scientific training, and providing exceptional, patient-centered care. That will not change; in fact, we will strive together to improve in both areas.

I also am committed to enhancing our medical research portfolio. We have the talent to do this. We need investment, and to that end, I believe that a significant component of my stewardship is to cultivate and grow philanthropy. I intend to work with you and our development staff to increase the flow of funding to support the school, its researchers and our ultimate mission.

Our School of Medicine is built upon a solid foundation of education and service to the community. It is up to us to continue building and burnishing that reputation. I am glad to join you and to be of service.

You have been fortunate to have had Dean Sobel serving the students faculty and residents of Detroit for the last five years. He has been an exceptional dean and an exceptional leader. I am indebted to him for his helpfulness in my transition and intend to use his wise council frequently.

Mark E. Schweitzer, M.D.
Vice President, Health Affairs
Dean, Wayne State University School of Medicine