UTHealth Houston

06/03/2026

UTHealth Houston has become the first health center in Texas to offer Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT), an FDA-approved treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression.

Bill Henderson, 75, is the first patient in Texas to receive the innovative therapy. The treatment is offered by a team led by João L. de Quevedo, MD, PhD, director of the Treatment-Resistant Depression Program at the Center for Interventional Psychiatry at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

Learn more about this breakthrough and Bill’s story at go.uth.edu/BillSAINT.

06/02/2026

More than 1,000 graduates. Countless hours of hard work, sacrifice, and determination. 🎓💙

The UTHealth Houston Class of 2026 is ready to lead in health care, science, research, and service. Thank you to the families, friends, faculty, and mentors who helped make this milestone possible.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Your next chapter starts now.

Watch the full commencement video at
go.uth.edu/Commencement2026.

05/29/2026

Working with patients and families who live with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities, Pauline Filipek, MD, recognized that disaster readiness looks different for everyone.

After witnessing the challenges many families faced following Hurricane Harvey, Filipek and the LoneStar LEND team researched ways to make emergency preparedness inclusive, accessible, and hands-on.

That vision became reality with the Disaster Readiness EXPO. Families practiced rescue boat procedures, learned about emergency supplies, tried floating devices, and used noise-canceling headphones during emergency simulations, all in a supportive environment. Families also became comfortable with emergency vehicles and first responders—many for the first time.

The EXPO built confidence, reduced fear, created inclusion, and helped families feel safer and more empowered during emergencies.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this incredible event possible for our community!

Learn more at go.uth.edu/LoneStarLENDExpo.

05/28/2026

What does it take to lead the next generation of scientists?

In this episode of Beyond the CV, Alejandro Aballay, PhD, dean of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, reflects on the curiosity that first drew him to science, the resilience required in research, and why adaptability and data fluency are shaping the future of biomedical innovation.

From mentorship to scientific discovery, Beyond the CV explores the people and perspectives behind the leaders shaping UTHealth Houston.

Watch the full conversation at go.uth.edu/BeyondAballay.

05/27/2026

Three UTHealth Houston researchers have received more than $6 million in grants from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) to advance cancer research, treatment, and prevention. The awards support projects ranging from training the next generation of cancer researchers and developing innovative large-molecule therapies to exploring a noninvasive ultrasound-based treatment to help smokers quit.

Zhongming Zhao, PhD, MS, professor and director of the Center for Precision Health at McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston, received renewed funding to help train the next generation of cancer researchers. Qingyun “Jim” Liu, PhD, professor at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, earned support for a core facility focused on advancing next-generation cancer therapies. Xiaoming Du, PhD, associate professor in the Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at McGovern Medical School, received funding to study a novel noninvasive ultrasound-based treatment to help smokers quit.

Learn more about these projects and the researchers advancing cancer innovation at go.uth.edu/CPRIT6M.

05/26/2026

We’re proud to celebrate the acquisition of CrossBridge Bio by Eli Lilly, a milestone that reflects the power of bold ideas, collaboration, and innovation across Houston’s life sciences community.

Built on groundbreaking discoveries from UTHealth Houston researchers Kyoji Tsuchikama, PhD, and Zhiqiang An, PhD, this next-generation antibody-drug conjugate platform highlights the potential of academic research to transform cancer care for patients around the world.

Congratulations to Dr. An, Dr. Tsuchikama, the CrossBridge Bio team, and the many individuals working behind the scenes whose dedication helped bring this achievement to life.

Thank you to the Texas Medical Center and CEO Bill McKeon for hosting a celebration that recognized the incredible momentum and impact of our region’s life sciences ecosystem.

Houston innovation continues to shape the future. This is only the beginning.

05/26/2026

One patient’s journey from diagnosis to recovery became a lasting reminder for Steve Koo, DDS ’99, of the impact early detection and compassionate care can have on a life.

After identifying a rare and aggressive oral cancer in a 28-year-old patient, Steve acted quickly—a decision that made all the difference. Years later, she reached out again with a wedding invitation.

A graduate of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, Steve has built his career around service, leadership, and giving back. From volunteering on international mission trips as a student to leading a successful surgical practice in Houston, his path has always centered on improving lives.

Today, Steve and his wife, Jessica, are helping expand that impact through philanthropy. Their support advances resident education, research, and innovation at the School of Dentistry, while also investing in the future of healthcare through McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston.

Their story is a reminder of how care, mentorship, and generosity come together to shape a healthier future.

Learn more: go.uth.edu/KooStory

05/25/2026

On this , we remember those who laid down their lives for our freedom.

05/22/2026

Research from UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry has officially launched into space.

Aboard the International Space Station, the VIBES — Vibration-Induced Bone Exercise Stimulation — project is studying how low-intensity vibration may help protect bone health in microgravity. The research could support future space exploration while also advancing understanding of bone loss and aging here on Earth.

Representing the School of Dentistry on the interdisciplinary research team are Mary C. “Cindy” Farach-Carson, PhD, professor and associate dean for research, and Danielle Wu, PhD, assistant professor, from the Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Sciences.

Read more at Go.uth.edu/VIBES.

05/21/2026

The future of nursing is taking shape earlier than ever.

During National Nurses Month, we are celebrating not only the nurses making an impact today but the students preparing to follow in their footsteps.

Pipeline programs at Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston are expanding access for high school students, especially those from underserved communities, through mentorship, hands-on clinical training, and industry-recognized certifications.

With generous support from the HCA Healthcare Foundation and The John M. O’Quinn Foundation, these initiatives help students build confidence, gain real-world skills, and take meaningful steps toward a future in nursing—opening doors to financial stability for students and strengthening the communities they call home.

See how future nurses are getting their start: go.uth.edu/Pipeline

05/20/2026

One year after launching, the Institute of Perioperative Medicine at UTHealth Houston is already advancing clinical trials, AI-driven research, and new approaches to reducing organ injury after surgery.

Led by co-directors Holger Eltzschig, MD, PhD, and Cynthia Ju, PhD, the institute is bringing together multidisciplinary experts focused on improving patient outcomes and making surgery safer.

Learn more about the institute’s first year of impact at go.uth.edu/PerioperativeMedicine.

Education Institute of Perioperative Medicine celebrates first year, advances By Kenny Bybee May 07, 2026 (Graphic by UTHealth Houston) Each year, millions of patients survive surgery only to face a different and often overlooked threat: organ failure in the days that follow. Perioperative death rem...

05/19/2026

A commitment to employee growth and workplace excellence has placed UTHealth Houston among Houston’s top employers on LinkedIn’s inaugural Top Companies: City Edition list.

Compiled by the LinkedIn News team, the annual ranking highlights organizations that provide strong opportunities for career growth, professional development, and long-term success. The Houston list is part of LinkedIn’s expansion of its nationally recognized Top Companies rankings, offering professionals a local guide to workplaces where careers can thrive.

05/18/2026

Walking is one of the simplest, most accessible ways to boost your health. No gym, special equipment, or complicated routine required. Just lace up your shoes and head outside!

Spending time walking outdoors, whether through your neighborhood or spaces like Discovery Green, adds an extra layer of benefit.

Learn more about the many ways walking supports your body and mind. https://www.utphysicians.com/walking-may-be-most-powerful-daily-habit/

05/18/2026

Four distinguished members of the UTHealth Houston community stepped into the spotlight May 1 during the 2026 President’s Scholar Awards luncheon, receiving among the highest honors bestowed upon faculty for their years of excellence, impact, and unwavering dedication.

Each award, given to deserving individuals nominated by their peers, carries with it the honorary title and a cash prize.

This year’s recipients included Qingchun Tong, PhD, Han Zhang, MD, Juliana A. Barros, DDS, MS, and Louise D. McCullough, MD, PhD.

Learn more about the 2026 President’s Scholar Award and this year’s honorees at go.uth.edu/PresidentsScholarAward26

05/14/2026

Commencement 2026, complete 🎓🧡

From celebrating milestones to capturing moments with classmates, this week was a reminder of how much heart, hard work, and community make up UTHealth Houston.

05/13/2026

Feeling fearless heading into the next chapter 🎓✨

From long clinic days to unforgettable memories, UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry students are capturing the moments they’ll carry long after commencement.🧡

05/13/2026

Everyone talks about the degree, but the people are what make the journey unforgettable!🧡🩺

05/12/2026

Caps flying high, you know how we feel..🎓🎶

We’re so excited to see the Class of 2026 step into what’s next and make their mark on the future of healthcare.

05/11/2026

Next stop: the stage 🎓🧡

Commencement is almost here at UTHealth Houston.

05/11/2026

It started with a goal. It ends with a cap and gown and your favorite people beside you.🎓

Commencement is almost here, and our students are ready for what’s next.

05/10/2026

Elizabeth Hillman, MD, MEd, is an associate professor and director of the Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship in the Department of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School.

She is also a mom of four, wife to her husband Paul—also a clinician educator—and a dedicated volunteer Girl Scout leader. When it comes to motherhood and career, her response is gratitude.

"I am deeply grateful to be the mother of four incredible children who fill each day with joy and adventure. Each of them is wonderfully unique, and they continue to inspire and amaze me every day. My two older daughters are Girl Scouts, and being their troop leader is a wonderful way to watch and guide girls as they develop leadership skills. My mother was my Girl Scout troop leader and I appreciate and put into practice the things she taught me daily. I am also grateful for the opportunity to serve families as a neonatologist caring for ill and premature newborns. Being both a physician and a mother constantly reminds me that every patient is someone’s child, and quality care is of the utmost importance."

This Mother's Day, we share these sentiments: UTHealth Houston is grateful for the unspeakable impact of every mother and mother figure who makes us who we are. Thanks for all you do.

05/08/2026

The path to biomedical informatics wasn’t something Samantha Smith always envisioned. Instead, it emerged from a lived experience, one that reshaped her perspective on healthcare and ignited a passion for change.

“It was when I got sick with COVID,” Smith said. “I was having an issue transferring hospitals and seeing a lot of doctors at once.”

Already managing Type 1 diabetes, she was familiar with the healthcare system. However, navigating it during a crisis revealed something deeper.

That moment of frustration became the foundation of her future and would lead her to McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston.

Learn how Samantha is turning her experience into impact at go.uth.edu/SSmith.

05/08/2026

Last month, UTHealth Houston School of Public Health honored the legacy of its founding dean during the Reuel A. Stallones Memorial Endowed Lecture and Building Commemoration, bringing together faculty, students, alumni, staff, and members of the Stallones family to reflect on his lasting impact.

Today, the building that bears his name stands as a symbol of continued growth, with more than 10,000 alumni each carrying forward the mission first set by Stallones to improve population health.

05/08/2026

Hantavirus is a serious infection that can lead to severe respiratory illness if not caught early. It spreads through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, often in garages, sheds, or outdoor spaces.

Early symptoms can feel like the flu, but the illness can quickly become more severe. Knowing the risks and warning signs can help protect you and your family.

Hear from Luis Z. Ostrosky, MD, infectious disease specialist with UT Physicians, on what hantavirus is, how it spreads, and what to watch for.

05/07/2026

With hurricane season on the horizon, UTHealth Houston put its storm readiness to the test on May 2. The university conducted its annual flood mitigation drill, reinforcing its culture of preparedness shaped by decades of hard-earned experience navigating severe weather.

The exercise tested 29 floodgates that protect key areas of campus, including the McGovern Medical School Building and Jesse H. Jones Library.

“This flood door drill allows us to make sure the doors are properly maintained and in good working condition, and that communication and coordination between the two teams of Environmental Health and Safety and Facilities, Planning, and Engineering is working as planned in regard to the flood door closures,” said Scott Patlovich, DrPH, assistant vice president of Environmental Health and Safety at UTHealth Houston.

With hurricane season approaching, see how these flood doors safeguard UTHealth Houston at go.uth.edu/FloodDoors.