LaTanya Love, MD, has been appointed as the interim president of UTHealth Houston, starting March 1. The University of Texas System made this announcement on February 14. Love is currently the executive vice president of Student and University Affairs and dean of Education at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. She will assume the interim role while a search for the next president is conducted.
"I love this university and am honored to serve our students, trainees, faculty, and staff in this interim role as we advance the mission of UTHealth Houston," Love stated.
Giuseppe N. Colasurdo, MD, announced his decision to step down after more than 12 years as president last fall. During his tenure, he led significant growth in research and education at UTHealth Houston. "It has been an absolute privilege to serve as president of UTHealth Houston," said Colasurdo. He expressed confidence in the search committee's ability to find an ideal candidate for the next presidency and encouraged support for Dr. Love in her new role.
Love has been part of UTHealth Houston for over two decades. Her career began with a residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at the institution in 2004, followed by a chief residency in 2005. She joined McGovern Medical School's faculty shortly after as an assistant professor in Pediatrics and became involved with Admissions and Student Affairs leadership.
In her current role as executive vice president of Student and University Affairs, she collaborates with leaders across all seven schools to promote wellness initiatives and ensure quality student services.
UT System Chancellor J.B. Milliken remarked on Love’s contributions: "Throughout Dr. Love’s 20-year professional path at UTHealth Houston, she has consistently demonstrated leadership."
Colasurdo will remain on faculty focusing on pulmonary medicine after stepping down from his presidential duties.
Milliken praised Colasurdo's service: "President Colasurdo dedicated tremendous energy and expertise to positioning UTHealth Houston among the best academic health centers in the nation."
