Governance Structure

Policies & Governance Structure – Washington Medical Sciences Institute (WMSI)

At Washington Medical Sciences Institute (WMSI), we are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and excellence in education, research, and healthcare training. Our governance framework and institutional policies are designed to ensure that every student, faculty member, and stakeholder benefits from a structured, transparent, and ethical environment. With clearly defined roles, responsibilities, and procedures, our governance structure provides the foundation for effective decision-making, academic rigor, and community engagement.

This section outlines the policies and governance mechanisms that guide the institute’s operations, promote fairness and inclusivity, and foster an environment where learning and innovation thrive.


Our Governance Framework

The governance of WMSI is built on principles of accountability, transparency, and shared responsibility. Our institutional leadership works collaboratively with academic, administrative, and student bodies to ensure that decisions reflect the best interests of the university community while adhering to national and international standards in medical education and research.

Board of Trustees

At the helm of our governance structure is the Board of Trustees, composed of experienced professionals, healthcare leaders, educators, and community representatives. The Board is responsible for:

  • Overseeing the institute’s strategic vision and long-term planning

  • Ensuring financial sustainability and regulatory compliance

  • Approving major academic and administrative policies

  • Evaluating institutional performance and promoting best practices

Their guidance is crucial in aligning WMSI’s educational mission with global healthcare needs and academic excellence.

Executive Leadership

The Executive Leadership Team, led by the President, includes the Vice President, Dean of Academic Affairs, Chief Financial Officer, and other senior administrators. They are responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the institute, including:

  • Academic planning and curriculum development

  • Faculty recruitment and development

  • Financial management and budgeting

  • Student welfare and campus infrastructure

  • Research advancement and community partnerships

This team ensures that institutional policies are implemented effectively and that the institute’s operational activities support the academic mission.


Academic Governance

Academic excellence is the cornerstone of WMSI’s reputation. Our academic governance framework is designed to promote integrity, rigorous scholarship, and innovation while ensuring that students receive high-quality training.

Academic Council

The Academic Council is a key body that advises on curriculum design, research initiatives, and academic policies. It includes senior faculty members, department heads, and academic advisors. The Council oversees:

  • Course structures and accreditation standards

  • Assessment methods and grading policies

  • Faculty development and teaching excellence

  • Research ethics and collaboration guidelines

The Academic Council ensures that academic decisions are aligned with healthcare advancements and student needs.

Faculty Senate

The Faculty Senate serves as a platform for faculty to actively participate in governance. It enables open dialogue on academic policies, teaching methodologies, and faculty welfare. The Senate is instrumental in fostering collaboration, advocating for faculty rights, and upholding academic freedom.


Student Governance and Participation

WMSI recognizes that students are essential stakeholders in shaping the campus experience. Our governance framework promotes student representation at various levels to ensure their voices are heard.

Student Government Association (SGA)

The Student Government Association is the elected body that represents student interests, facilitates communication between students and administration, and organizes extracurricular and leadership activities. The SGA is responsible for:

  • Advocating for student welfare and academic concerns

  • Organizing cultural, recreational, and awareness programs

  • Collaborating with faculty on policy improvements

  • Enhancing campus life through student-led initiatives

Through the SGA, students learn leadership skills, teamwork, and effective communication.

Student Advisory Committees

In addition to the SGA, various Student Advisory Committees are established to provide input on academic, residential, and health policies. These committees work with administrators to address concerns, recommend improvements, and ensure that student feedback is incorporated into institutional planning.


Institutional Policies

The policies at WMSI are guided by principles of fairness, ethics, and student-centered care. Our institutional policies cover several areas:

Academic Policies

  • Admission requirements and enrollment procedures

  • Attendance and examination guidelines

  • Academic integrity and plagiarism prevention

  • Course evaluation and grading systems

Administrative Policies

  • Financial management and fee structures

  • Data privacy and information security

  • Infrastructure maintenance and campus safety

Student Welfare Policies

  • Anti-harassment and anti-discrimination protocols

  • Counseling and mental health support

  • Accessibility accommodations for students with disabilities

  • Health and wellness guidelines

Research and Ethical Policies

  • Ethical review and approval for research projects

  • Collaboration with external research bodies

  • Intellectual property and publication rights

  • Confidentiality and patient care ethics

All policies are reviewed periodically to incorporate new regulations, research developments, and global healthcare standards.


Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

At WMSI, we believe that effective governance is rooted in trust. All policy decisions are communicated clearly to faculty, staff, and students. Regular town halls, reports, and feedback mechanisms ensure that the community stays informed and engaged. Our commitment to transparency helps build a culture of shared responsibility where everyone feels empowered to contribute to the institute’s success.


Looking Ahead

As WMSI continues to grow and adapt to changing healthcare education trends, our governance and policies will evolve to meet emerging challenges and opportunities. Our structured governance ensures that every decision—whether related to curriculum development, research initiatives, or student welfare—is grounded in integrity, inclusivity, and academic excellence.

We invite our students, faculty, and community partners to be active participants in shaping the future of WMSI, contributing to a culture of excellence that prepares healthcare leaders for tomorrow