Francisco G. Cigarroa

Dr. Francisco G. Cigarroa is a nationally recognized pediatric transplantation surgeon, and the first Hispanic chancellor of a major university system in the United States, The University of Texas System. While president of the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio (2000-2009), he accelerated the upward trajectory of the university scientifically, clinically, and philanthropically. He is a leader for improving efficiency and effectiveness in higher education while maintaining quality and a strong advocate of the need for closing the gaps in regard to educating underrepresented groups. He developed a specific plan for a Regional Academic Health Center in South Texas, expanding the supply of physicians in a medically underserved and diverse area. He is a seasoned advocate for education and health care with governmental leaders. He has served on many boards, among them, as Chair, Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, and as president of the Academy of Medicine, Engineering, and Science of Texas. He serves as an academic fellow for the Yale Corporation and was elected as a member of the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science and as a honorary member of the National Academy of Medicine of Mexico.