Dean’s Message

Dear Friends,

It is with great pleasure and excitement that I extend a warm welcome as we embark on an incredible chapter together at Meharry Medical College. As Founding Dean, I am honored to lead our esteemed institution and work alongside such remarkable individuals to establish the first and only School of Global Health in the United States.

Our school has been founded on the principles of Creativity, Action, Respect, and Equity, values that serve as the guiding light for our endeavors. Here, we believe that creativity fuels innovation, action drives impact, respect fosters collaboration, and equity serves as the bedrock for achieving health for all.These values shape our culture, inspire our work, and define the transformative experiences that await you. What sets us apart and fills us with immense pride is our unwavering commitment to leading from the front on health equity. For close to 150 years, our alumni, faculty, and administrators were instrumental in championing this cause. They stood up against injustices, leading landmark civil rights cases and challenging the status quo with courage and determination.

We carry their legacy forward with humility, knowing that the pursuit of health equity is a lifelong journey that demands our continued perseverance. The work we set out to do extends far beyond ourselves. It is about improving the lives of individuals and communities around the globe. It is about leaving a lasting impact, driven by the belief that a healthier and more equitable world is not only possible but within our reach.

Daniel E. Dawes, JD
Founding Dean, School of Global Health and Senior Vice President, Global Health