News and Events

Jack E. Gotcher, DMD, PhD, Named Interim Chair of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) has named Jack E. Gotcher, DMD, PhD, Professor and Program Director of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency, as Interim Chair of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, effective May 1st. As he steps into this new leadership role, Dr. Gotcher will transition the Program Director role to Michael Winstead, DMD, MD.Read more

UTGSM Launches New Neurology Residency Program in 2025

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) is proud to announce the launch of its new Neurology Residency Program in 2025. Housed within the Department of Medicine, the largest department at UTGSM, this four-year categorical program is designed to train the next generation of general neurologists to serve patients with empathy, clinical excellence, and a deep commitment to health equity.Read more

UTGSM Celebrates Match Day 2025

The energy was palpable at the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in downtown Knoxville on March 21, 2025. Amid nervous laughter and heartfelt embraces, our University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine fourth-year medical students gathered with their loved ones for one of medicine's most treasured traditions - Match Day. As the clock struck noon, these soon-to-be physicians, who had spent countless hours in our halls and hospitals honing their skills, opened the letters that would launch the next chapter of their medical careers.Read more

UME Department Expands to Enhance Student Support and Clinical Education

The Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) department at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) continues to grow, expanding its support for medical students. One new position added last year, the Clinical Education Coordinator, plays a vital role in ensuring seamless clinical education experiences for allied health and advanced practice provider students. Casey Heck has served in this role since September 2024, overseeing APP rotations in a coordinated effort with UHS to improve experiences of our midlevel provider students. She collaborates with affiliated institutions, manages student onboarding, and acts as the key liaison between students, preceptors, and faculty. Her efforts help maintain strong partnerships and ensure students receive high-quality training opportunities.Read more

G. Anthony Wilson, MD, Named Assistant Dean for Clinical Affairs at University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) is pleased to announce the appointment of G. Anthony Wilson, MD, FAAFP, as the Assistant Dean for Clinical Affairs, effective March 1, 2025. Dr. Wilson succeeds Rajiv Dhand, MD, who has served in this role since its inception in 2015. Read more

UTGSM Faculty Recognized at the 2024 UTRF MCO Innovation Awards Ceremony

The 2024 University of Tennessee Research Foundation (UTRF) Multi-Campus Office Innovation Awards Ceremony, held on November 25 in Knoxville, TN, celebrated the groundbreaking achievements of researchers across the UT system. The event honored faculty, staff, and students whose innovative contributions are driving progress in technology, science, and entrepreneurship. Read more

Dr. Carlson Inducted into the ACS Academy of Master Surgeon Educators

On September 27, 2024, Eric R. Carlson, DMD, MD, EdM, FACS, chairman of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, was among 76 esteemed surgeon educators to be inducted in the Academy of Master Surgeon Educators of the American College of Surgeons during a program event in Chicago. Read more

Children's Hospital and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Graduate School of Medicine in Knoxville Announce Pediatric Residency Program

East Tennessee Children's Hospital (ETCH) and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) in Knoxville are collaborating to launch a pediatric residency program. This is the first pediatric graduate medical education (GME) program between the two organizations.Read more

Mitchell H. Goldman, MD, FACS Receives Active Learning Teaching Award for Innovative Classroom Strategies

Mitchell H. Goldman, MD, FACS, Professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM), was honored with the Active Learning Teaching Award for his exceptional implementation of active learning strategies. Read more

UTGSM to Launch an Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Fellowship

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) is proud to announce the initiation of the Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Fellowship, an intensive one-year program aimed at advancing the skills of graduates from accredited general surgery residencies in the realm of complex hernia management and abdominal wall reconstruction. Under the mentorship of esteemed faculty members, the fellowship offers a comprehensive curriculum encompassing a wide array of specialized techniques and procedures. From recurrent hernias to mesh complications, and from chronic wounds to hernia defects, fellows will be equipped with the expertise to address a spectrum of complex abdominal wall pathologies. Read more

Statewide Biomedical and Clinical Research Collaborative Awards Granted

Researchers from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine-Knoxville; the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center Office of Research understand the challenges affecting the health and wellness of Tennesseans. Read more

Celebrating Excellence: UTGSM's 2024 Welcome Dinner and Faculty Awards

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) recently hosted its 2024 Welcome Dinner and Faculty Awards, a cherished tradition that celebrates excellence and achievement in medical education, research, and service. The event, held on June 22, 2024, at the Bridgewater Place in Knoxville, TN, was a momentous occasion, bringing together new residents, fellows, and esteemed faculty members to honor their unwavering commitment to advancing medical education and research. Read more

2024 UTGSM Employees Recognized for Excellence

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine celebrated the exceptional achievements of its employees with the 18th Annual Employee Excellence Awards program. Nominations were solicited from colleagues and supervisors, acknowledging employees' remarkable contributions in four distinct categories: outstanding job performance, leadership, courtesy and customer service, and community service. This year's winners are Patty Hamilton (Performance), Melinda Klar (Leadership), Kristi Roe (Courtesy and Customer Service) and Abagail Pujol (Community Service). Read more

University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine and The University of Tennessee Medical Center Pioneer Revolutionary Radionuclide Therapies in Cancer Treatment

In a groundbreaking stride toward advancing cancer treatment, the Molecular Imaging and Translational Research Program (MITRP) at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) and The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC) are at the forefront of pioneering Radionuclide Therapies. Under the guidance of Dr. Dustin Osborne, PhD, DABSNM, Professor, and Director of the MITRP, Dr. Yitong Fu, MD, Nuclear Medicine Section Chief, and Brett Hines, RT(R), CNMT, Manager of Nuclear Medicine, these novel therapies represent a transformative approach in the fight against cancer.Read more

UTGSM Celebrates Match Day 2024

On March 15, 2024, twelve Knoxville designated University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine fourth-year medical students gathered with eager anticipation to partake in the time-honored tradition of "Match Day." Held at Maple Hall in downtown Knoxville, this year's students opened their "Match Day" letters at exactly 12:00 PM EST while celebrating with friends and family. Issued by the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP), these letters revealed the specialty programs and locations where each student will begin their residency training after graduation from medical school.Read more

The Role of the Institutional Review Board at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine

Research involving human subjects is a cornerstone of scientific advancement, but it must be conducted ethically and with the utmost respect for the rights and welfare of participants. At the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM), oversight is provided by the Institutional Review Board (IRB), an integral part of the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center (UTHSC) research infrastructure. Comprised of representatives from UTGSM, UT Medical Center, and the community, the IRB ensures compliance with federal regulations and ethical standards, safeguarding the welfare of participants.Read more

Janet Purkey, MD Named a 2024 Remarkable Women Finalist

Dr. Janet Purkey, an Associate Professor and Clerkship Director for Internal Medicine at UTGSM, has been named a 2024 Remarkable Women Finalist, a testament to her extraordinary dedication and contributions. Beyond her role in medicine, Dr. Purkey is the co-founder of the East Knox Free Medical Clinic, where she tirelessly serves those in need, regardless of their ability to pay.Read more

Celebrating a Legacy of Knowledge and Compassion: The Preston Medical Library

The Preston Medical Library, nestled within the heart of the University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC), commemorates its enduring history that spans back to 1966. This year will mark a decade since its 2014 relocation to a 10,500 square foot area in the hospital's main lobby. As it celebrates its ten-year relocation anniversary, the library continues its unwavering service to the medical community and the public. It stands as a beacon of knowledge, offering a wealth of resources, innovative services, and compassionate support. Read more

New Amyloid Imaging Study at UTGSM Paves the Way in Diagnosis and Therapy

In a significant stride toward improving the challenges faced by patients with systemic amyloidosis, the Amyloidosis and Cancer Theranostics Program (ACTP) at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM), under the direction of Jonathan Wall, PhD, University Distinguished Professor and Assistant Dean of Research embarked on their latest groundbreaking research. The ACTP team initiated the first-in-human study of a novel diagnostic imaging agent for the detection of cardiac amyloidosis at the UT Medical Center, ushering in a new era in amyloid imaging research.Read more

Tina M. Dudney, MD Named Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical and Dental Education & Designated Institutional Official at UTGSM

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tina M. Dudney, MD as the Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical and Dental Education and Designated Institutional Official (DIO) effective October 15, 2023. Dr. Dudney has served as the Interim Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical and Dental Education and DIO since January 1, 2023, succeeding William P. Metheny, PhD, who retired after a 37-year career in medical education. Read more

UTGSM Completes Third 'Advancing Access to Careers in Medicine Scholars Program'

This summer, the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine completed its third Advancing Access to Careers in Medicine Scholars Program (AACMSP). Led by Dr. Deidra Mountain, PhD, Director of the Undergraduate Research Experience, the initiative aimed to broaden opportunities for first-generation college students and those from diverse backgrounds, fostering greater access to careers in medicine and/or translational sciences. Through the program, participants gained valuable insights into the ongoing research endeavors at The University of Tennessee Medical Center. Read more

Medical Students Participate in GSM Research Projects Thanks to Dr. I. Reid Collmann's Legacy Scholarship

Medical students at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine participated in research projects funded by the I. Reid Collmann, M.D. Medical Student Education Fund, which provides students with an opportunity similar to former Dean Collmann's own student research experience. Dr. Collmann believed that hands-on experience with research and its impact on patient care helped to lay a good foundation for future medical careers. Read more

Dr. Pam Peterson Mobley Named 2023 Outstanding Alumna of the Year by the East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine

Dr. Pam Peterson Mobley, an esteemed an alumna of the UTGSM Department of Anesthesiology residency program, has been named the 2023 Outstanding Alumna of the Year by the East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine. This prestigious award recognizes her remarkable volunteer work in the Bahamas in 2019. Dr. Mobley's journey began with a childhood aspiration to become a doctor, inspired by her mother's diabetic condition. Her early training in medical response led to her saving her mother's life at just 5 years old.Read more

Robert M. Craft, MD Named Fifth Dean of the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine and University Health System, Inc. has named Robert M. Craft, MD as the fifth Dean of the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) effective August 1, 2023. Dr. Craft will also serve as Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC). Dr. Craft has served as Interim Dean since October 3, 2022, and in that role has led the development of a strategic plan for growth of undergraduate medical education, graduate medical education and scholarly activity that is fully integrated across the UTMC organization and within UTHSC.Read more

Stuart E. Van Meter, MD Named Chair of Pathology

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) has named, Stuart E. Van Meter, MD, as Chair of the Department of Pathology effective August 1, 2023. Dr. Van Meter took on the role of Interim Chair on November 1, 2022, succeeding Dr. Lisa Duncan, who had been serving as Chair since 2011.Read more

K. Paige Johnson, MD Named Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) has named K. Paige Kessler Johnson, MD, as the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) effective August 1, 2023. Dr. Johnson had previously been named Interim Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education on January 1, 2023.Read more

Celebrating Excellence: UTGSM's 2023 Welcome Dinner and Faculty Awards

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) recently held its 2023 Welcome Dinner and Faculty Awards, marking an evening of celebration, recognition, and appreciation. Hosted by the Office of the Dean, the reception took place on June 22, 2023, at the elegant Bridgewater Place in Knoxville, TN. The gathering brought together the new residents and fellows joining UTGSM, along with esteemed faculty members, to commemorate their collective dedication to medical education and research.Read more

2023 UTGSM Employees Recognized for Excellence

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine celebrated the exceptional achievements of its employees with the 17th Annual Employee Excellence Awards program. Nominees were put forward by their peers and supervisors, highlighting their outstanding contributions in four categories: outstanding job performance, leadership, courtesy and customer service, and community service. This year's winners are Ginger Hildebrand (Performance), Jennifer Ferris (Leadership), Cindy Langley (Courtesy and Customer Service) and Cameron Watson (Community Service). Read more

Becker Family Donates $178K to UTGSM

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) recently received a generous donation from the estate of Patricia Becker, a former resident of Knoxville who passed away on March 14, 2022. Patricia Becker's nephew, Michael Becker, informed the UTGSM that his aunt had chosen to leave a portion of her estate to the UTGSM for research purposes. The gift amount totaled $178,087.91, and her heirs, Michael Becker, Janet Becker Hardin, and Laura Miller, requested that at least 50% of the gift be used to support the Women in Science initiative, with the remainder supporting the Physical Activity and Metabolism Laboratory (PAM) at the UTGSM. Read more

Patrick O. McConville, MD Named Chair of Anesthesiology

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) has announced Patrick O. McConville, MD, Associate Professor, as the new Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology effective April 1, 2023. Dr. McConville had previously been named Interim Chair of the department on October 17, 2022. Read more

UTGSM Celebrates Match Day 2023

Seven Knoxville designated University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) College of Medicine fourth-year medical students gathered with members of the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) Dean's staff on March 17, 2023, to celebrate "Match Day." This year the students open their "Match Day" letters at exactly 12:00 pm EST while celebrating with family and friends at Maple Hall. Issued by the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP), these letters revealed the specialty programs and locations where each student will begin their residency training after graduation from medical school. Read more

K. Paige Johnson, MD Wins Golden Apple Award for Overall Outstanding Clerkship Director

The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) has announced that K. Paige Johnson, MD, has been named the winner of the prestigious Golden Apple Award for Overall Outstanding Clerkship Director at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM). Dr. Johnson was selected for this honor by the students, which makes this recognition even more special. Read more

UTGSM Alum Honored by National Football League

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) alumni, Dr. Valerie Sams, was honored at a pre-Super Bowl event for her role in helping to save Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Dr. Sams, who completed her residency in General Surgery at UTGSM from 2008 to 2013, is currently serving as a trauma surgeon in the U.S. Air Force and is also the Director of the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS) program at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Read more

University Family Physicians Clinic Awarded Recognition by the NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home Program

The University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine's Department of Family Medicine is proud to announce its University Family Physicians (UFP) Clinic has been awarded recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home Program. NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations.Read more