GALVESTON, Texas - Dr. Francisco G. Cigarroa, chancellor of the University of Texas System, will be the keynote speaker for the UTMB School of Medicine's commencement.
Commencement for the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston is scheduled for 10 a.m. May 30 at the Moody Gardens Convention Center.
Cigarroa, who became chancellor in February, visited UTMB during his first week in office.
Dr. Garland D. Anderson, dean of the School of Medicine, said that it was significant that Cigarroa will address the graduates.
"This has been a year of extraordinary challenge for our students and faculty. Commencement this year will not only be a celebration, but a testament to the incredible strength and spirit of our students, faculty and staff," Anderson said. "Dr. Cigarroa's presence sends a powerful message of support and hope for UTMB, and I am grateful the chancellor understands the significance of this year's graduation, and agreed to be a part of this historic commencement for the School of Medicine."
A highly regarded transplant surgeon, Cigarroa served as president of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio prior to his appointment as chancellor. He was the first Hispanic president of an academic health center in the United States, and as chancellor, he is the first Hispanic in the United States to lead a major public university system. He is a member of the Institute of Medicine, a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a diplomate of the American Board of Surgery.