Board of Trustees

Introduction

The Board of Trustees of Washington Medical Sciences Institute (WMSI) serves as the highest governing authority of the university, entrusted with safeguarding the mission, values, and long-term success of the institution. As stewards of the university’s legacy, the Trustees provide strategic oversight, financial stewardship, and policy guidance, ensuring that WMSI continues to thrive as a center of excellence in medical education, research, and community service.

The Board works collaboratively with the university’s leadership, faculty, and stakeholders to create a vision that empowers future healthcare professionals and promotes innovative medical sciences education.

Role and Responsibilities

The Board of Trustees functions as the strategic and fiduciary body of WMSI, responsible for:

  1. Mission and Vision Alignment

    • Upholding and advancing the mission of WMSI as a premier institution dedicated to producing world-class physicians and healthcare professionals.

    • Guiding the strategic direction of the university in alignment with global medical and educational standards.

  2. Academic Excellence

    • Ensuring that academic programs meet the highest quality benchmarks.

    • Supporting innovation in teaching, research, and clinical practice.

  3. Financial Stewardship

    • Overseeing the financial health of the university, including budget approval, endowment management, and fundraising strategies.

    • Ensuring responsible use of resources to maintain affordability and accessibility for students.

  4. Governance and Policy Development

    • Establishing and reviewing policies that govern the operations of the university.

    • Promoting accountability, transparency, and ethical standards in all aspects of university administration.

  5. Community and Global Engagement

    • Strengthening partnerships with healthcare organizations, alumni, and international partners.

    • Supporting community-based initiatives and outreach programs that extend WMSI’s impact beyond the classroom.

Structure of the Board

The Board of Trustees is composed of distinguished leaders from diverse fields including medicine, higher education, law, business, finance, and public service. Each member is selected based on their expertise, commitment to education, and dedication to the betterment of society.

  • Chairperson – Provides leadership to the Board, presides over meetings, and serves as the chief liaison with the President of the university.

  • Vice-Chairperson – Assists the Chairperson and assumes leadership responsibilities in their absence.

  • Treasurer – Oversees the financial operations and ensures fiscal responsibility.

  • Secretary – Maintains records of Board proceedings and official documents.

  • Members – Bring specialized expertise and contribute to policy formulation, strategic initiatives, and institutional growth.

Committees of the Board

To effectively discharge its responsibilities, the Board operates through standing committees, each focusing on a critical area of governance:

  • Academic Affairs Committee – Oversees academic policies, curriculum development, and faculty affairs.

  • Finance and Audit Committee – Manages financial planning, investments, and audit compliance.

  • Governance and Nominations Committee – Identifies and recommends qualified individuals for Board membership.

  • Student Affairs Committee – Reviews policies that affect student life, welfare, and engagement.

  • Research and Innovation Committee – Supports the growth of medical research and innovation at WMSI.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

WMSI’s Board of Trustees is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. The Trustees recognize that diversity of thought, background, and experience enhances decision-making and enriches the university’s academic culture. Their leadership reflects WMSI’s belief in preparing globally minded, socially responsible medical professionals.

Accountability and Transparency

The Board values integrity and accountability. Decisions are made with the utmost transparency, ensuring that the interests of students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community remain at the heart of every policy. Regular reporting, open communication channels, and adherence to ethical practices strengthen trust between the university and its stakeholders.

Message from the Board of Trustees

“At Washington Medical Sciences Institute, we believe that education in the medical sciences is more than a profession—it is a calling. As Trustees, we are proud to guide the university in shaping competent, compassionate, and innovative healthcare professionals. Our collective goal is to ensure that WMSI remains a beacon of knowledge, discovery, and service to humanity.”