Giuseppe N. Colasurdo, MD, announced his decision to step down as president and Alkek-Williams Distinguished Chair at UTHealth Houston after 12 years in the role. His tenure is noted for significant growth at the university.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents will start a national search for his successor. Colasurdo will continue in his position until a new president is appointed.
During his presidency, Colasurdo focused on recruiting top talent among students, faculty, and staff. He expressed gratitude to the UTHealth Houston community: “I have been fortunate to work with and learn from this amazing community...you have guided me both professionally and personally throughout my tenure.” He added that UTHealth Houston’s success is due to its exceptional community and collaborative culture.
J.B. Milliken, Chancellor of The University of Texas System, praised Colasurdo's leadership: “One of the hallmarks of a successful university presidency is ensuring that the institution is in the best possible position for the future. President Colasurdo has done just that. UTHealth Houston’s growth in enrollment, research, and clinical partnerships, along with new records of philanthropy, represent a short list of his accomplishments.”
Colasurdo's academic journey began at The Liceo Scientifico “Galileo Galilei” in Pescara, Italy. He earned his medical degree summa cum laude from G. D’Annunzio School of Medicine before moving to the United States in 1988 for further training. He completed his residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and a fellowship at the University of Colorado Health Science Center and National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver.
He joined McGovern Medical School’s faculty in 1995 as an assistant professor of pediatrics and later became division head in 1997. From 2002 to 2006, he directed the fellowship training program in pediatric pulmonary medicine. He served as chair of the Department of Pediatrics from 2005 to 2011 and was dean from 2007 to 2015 before being named president ad interim of UTHealth Houston in 2011.
In closing his announcement, Colasurdo expressed optimism about UTHealth Houston's future: “I am confident that the great days for UTHealth Houston are just beginning.”
