The University’s deans and University System leaders react to the selection of Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, as UMB president.
The University System of Maryland (USM) Board of Regents named Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, the seventh president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), effective Sept. 11, 2020. Here’s what USM leaders and UMB deans are saying about Dr. Jarrell's appointment:
“Bruce Jarrell is the ideal leader for UMB. When you’re fortunate to head a university, you understand that it’s the people around you who advance the institution toward excellence. Dr. Jarrell was certainly one of those people for me when I was president of UMB. No one was wiser in their counsel or more inspired in finding ways to better deliver on UMB’s critical missions. What’s more, Bruce will be the kind of leader who brings out the best in the people who now surround him. His deep capability and dynamic vision are exactly what an institution as important as UMB needs and deserves.”
Jay A. Perman, MD
Chancellor, USM
“He has already served UMB so well in leading its academic and research offices, and his effective stewardship as interim president was seamless during an important and transitional time for USM. Dr. Jarrell has been a critical part of the system’s planning and response to the COVID-19 pandemic this year, and we are delighted that he will remain in this key leadership role at UMB.”
Linda R. Gooden
Chair, USM Board of Regents
“On behalf of the entire School of Medicine academic community, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to Dr. Jarrell on his appointment as the new UMB president. Dr. Jarrell is an academic leader who understands the critical importance of research and discovery and who recognizes the vital role that our faculty physicians and scientists play in treating the most vulnerable patients in our local community and around the world. He is also a strong advocate for patient safety and for providing the highest-quality patient care. I offer my own personal best wishes to Bruce, who has always been a friend and colleague. With Dr. Jarrell’s leadership, we all are confident that UMB’s strong forward momentum will continue well into the future.”
E. Albert Reece, MD, PhD, MBA
Dean, University of Maryland School of Medicine
Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, UMB
“I am truly excited about Dr. Jarrell’s appointment as president of UMB. I have had the opportunity to work with him for more than 12 years. His deep understanding of the University and its schools is vitally important right now as we face multiple challenges. Over the last few months, Dr. Jarrell has demonstrated strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to the well-being of all of our faculty, staff, and students. These attributes will continue to be essential as we seek to further enhance UMB amidst our recovery from the pandemic.”
Natalie D. Eddington, PhD, FAAPS, FCP
Dean, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
“As UMB’s newest dean, I am delighted with and humbled by all the support I have received from Dr. Jarrell. His leadership these past several months, his vision for the future of UMB, and his commitment to Baltimore and the surrounding communities is exactly what we as a University and the state of Maryland need right now.”
Judy L. Postmus, PhD, MSW
Dean, University of Maryland School of Social Work
“I am very excited that Dr. Jarrell has been named president of UMB. Dr. Jarrell is an experienced and inspiring leader with deep passion for the University and its mission. He knows the institution’s strengths and how to leverage them to increase our impact on Baltimore City, the state, and the nation. Dr. Jarrell is committed to our students promoting both student learning and the student experience. He supports interdisciplinary and community partnerships and elevates our core values around diversity and inclusion. I am confident that with Dr. Jarrell at the helm, UMB will reach new heights of excellence.”
Donald B. Tobin, JD
Dean, University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law
“Dr. Jarrell is a superb choice to be the next president of UMB. As a surgeon and scientist, he brings to the role deep expertise and experience in health and human services, a longstanding dedication to improving lives, and a rich appreciation for the complexities of the human condition. When leading, Dr. Jarrell values the knowledge and perspective of others, emphasizes professional development, and encourages collaborative work and innovative partnerships on campus and beyond.
“While serving as interim president, despite the challenges of the pandemic, he has offered steady guidance that has been responsive to the needs of individuals, as well as each of the schools, while continuing to nurture the collective strength of the University and foster community engagement. He also has shown a strong commitment to diversity, and I am confident that he will continue to lead the University to remarkable achievements.”
Mark A. Reynolds, DDS, PhD, MA
Dean, University of Maryland School of Dentistry