At Dr. Wartman's retirement ceremony on April 15, President Cigarroa presented a university chair that included a nameplate and Health Science Center seal to Dr. Wartman, and a plaque as an expression of appreciation.
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Francisco G. Cigarroa, M.D., president of the Health Science Center, hosted a farewell reception honoring Executive Vice President for Academic and Health Affairs and Dean of the Medical School Steven A. Wartman, M.D., Ph.D. He has accepted a position as the president of the Association of Academic Health Centers in Washington, D.C., and will leave the Health Science Center at the end of April.

Dr. Cigarroa opened the ceremony by presenting a bouquet of yellow roses to Dr. Wartman’s wife, Gina Caliri.

“One of the best things you ever did was to marry your beautiful wife, Gina,” Dr. Cigarroa said to Dr. Wartman. “And in all your great professional accomplishments, she has been by your side every step of the way.”

Dr. Cigarroa expressed sincere gratitude to Dr. Wartman for his exceptional contributions and the positive changes he has provided for the Health Science Center. He presented a university chair that included a nameplate and Health Science Center seal to Dr. Wartman, and a plaque as an expression of appreciation.

“You are a distinguished physician, a proven leader, and a creative visionary,” said Dr. Cigarroa. “We are so fortunate to have had you on the Health Science Center’s leadership team. You have truly helped to move this institution into a new era.”

Dr. Wartman said faculty, staff and students at the Health Science Center have created a lasting impression with their dedication and drive to succeed.

“I’m proud of the Health Science Center and what we’ve accomplished,” Dr. Wartman said. “And I’m grateful that I have been entrusted with such great responsibilities here. I have a sincere belief in what we stand for and I’ve always guided myself to do what is best for the university. I wish everyone nothing but the best.”

Several other leaders congratulated Dr. Wartman on his accomplishments. Joseph Naples, M.D., professor and chair of the department of anesthesiology; Don A. Beeler, president and chief executive officer of Christus Santa Rosa; Jose Coronado, director of the South Texas Veterans Health Care System; and George Hernandez, J.D., president and chief executive officer of the University Health System, participated in the ceremony to wish Dr. Wartman success in the future.